Fun MINI models updated

AND TECHNOLOGICAL: UPGRADES FOR THE HATCH AND CONVERTIBLE 7-speed Steptronic transmission with double clutch is optionally available.

The British premium automobile manufacturer strengthens the progressive character and appeal of its models in the small car segment with a stylishly refined visual appearance and extensive technological advancements.

The update for the MINI 3-door, the MINI 5-door and the MINI Convertible includes fresh design accentuations, innovations in the field of drive technology, additional customisation options and an expansion of the digital services available as part of MINI Connected.

The upgrading of the original product substance in the premium segment of small cars highlights the mature yet distinctive charisma of MINI, which in its current model generation is now available for the first time with three body types for hallmark driving fun in urban traffic.

This is due to such elements as the new engine-transmission combinations, an extended range of standard features, newly designed headlights and rear lights, additional body finishes and cutting-edge connectivity technology for convenience and infotainment.

A modified design for the characteristic circular headlights make the hallmark front view of the new MINI 3-door, the new MINI 5-door and the new MINI Convertible even more powerfully expressive. In the standard halogen headlights, a striking accentuation is added by means of a black panel. In the LED headlights available as optional equipment items, the high-quality technology is underscored by means of an entirely new design of the light sources.

The latest generation of the LED modules for low and high beam offers increased brightness. The LED daytime driving light and the turn indicator light are generated by a ring which surrounds the entire contour of the headlight. Likewise, optionally available, the adaptive LED headlights automatically adjust their brightness to the situation on the road.

The rear lights also feature a new design in conjunction with the LED headlights and the adaptive LED headlights. As a clear reference to the brand’s British origins, the upright light units at the rear now appear in a Union Jack design.

The new MINI logo is clear and authentic in style, appearing on the bonnet, tailgate, steering wheel, central instrument display and remote control in all models. It is a re-interpretation of the existing logo and now features a two-dimensional “flat design”. As such, the MINI logo reflects the new brand identity with its focus on the essentials – namely key values such as driving fun, distinctive design, premium quality and emotional appeal.

The MINI Yours Customised programme now raises hallmark brand individualisation to a whole new level. It includes retrofit products whose design can be created by customers themselves, which are then produced precisely according to these individual specifications. MINI Yours Customised products can be selected, designed and ordered through a specially created online shop. Here customers can choose between various colours, patterns, surface structures and icons, as well as contributing their own texts and adding a touch of personal style to the design. This creative interaction between manufacturer and customer enables MINI fans to turn their vehicle into a unique specimen that bears the stamp of their own personality. The individualised products are manufactured using innovative production techniques.

There is a detailed revision of the engines offered for the new MINI that mainly benefits driving fun, but also leads to a reduction in fuel consumption and CO2 figures by as much as five percent, as well as optimising emissions so as to be able to comply with the more rigorous exhaust emission standards of the future.

Only the Cooper and Cooper S engine variants will be offered in South Africa, and they offer 100 kW and 141 kW respectively. As an alternative to the standard 6-speed manual transmission, a 7-speed Steptronic transmission with double clutch is optionally available for the MINI Cooper and MINI Cooper S. The new transmission type is characterised by very fast gearshifts, enabling extremely sporty acceleration manoeuvres without torque interrupt.

The new MINI 3-door, MINI 5-door and MINI Convertible will be available in South Africa from the second quarter of 2018.