MINI has debuted the second-generation MINI John Cooper Works GP.  Lacking any specific performance details, the debut is mostly an exterior design presentation.  This GP has a custom rear spoiler and a rear diffuser, but otherwise appears much like a regular JCW with custom paint and graphics.  It is still unknown what the interior [...]]]>

MINI has debuted the second-generation MINI John Cooper Works GP.  Lacking any specific performance details, the debut is mostly an exterior design presentation.  This GP has a custom rear spoiler and a rear diffuser, but otherwise appears much like a regular JCW with custom paint and graphics.  It is still unknown what the interior will look like, although we know it will have the rear seats removed.

From BMW Group PressClub Global:

Munich. Only once has there been anything like it, but even that wasn’t as quick. With the MINI John Cooper Works GP, the British premium brand has come up with another car of exceptional talent designed to deliver extreme performance on both the race track and the road. The sportiest road-registered MINI ever made will go on sale later this year in a limited run of 2,000 cars. It is currently completing a programme of testing in preparation for series production, part of which has involved setting an impressive fastest lap of the Nürburgring’s Nordschleife circuit. The MINI John Cooper Works GP lapped the erstwhile Grand Prix course in 8 min. 23 sec. In so doing, the new model has put clear asphalt between itself and numerous sports cars from loftier perches – and beaten the lap time set by its predecessor, the MINI Cooper S with John Cooper Works GP Kit, by almost 19 seconds.

Underpinning the performance characteristics of the MINI John Cooper Works GP is exclusive powertrain, chassis and aerodynamics technology inspired directly by motor sport. Its twin-scroll turbo engine generates outstanding torque, displays remarkable elasticity and demonstrates a healthy appetite for revs. Specially developed, adjustable race suspension channels this superlative output into spectacular yet precisely controllable handling.

As well as being undeniably imposing visually, the design of the body also gives the MINI John Cooper Works GP ideal aerodynamic balance in extreme driving situations – a key element in delivering that handling flair. Large front and rear aprons, striking side skirts and a bespoke roof spoiler are complemented by a newly developed rear diffuser which optimises airflow around the underbody. The interior of the MINI John Cooper Works GP also contributes to the car’s inspirational racing feeling; with the rear seats removed, it focuses unashamedly on the needs of the driver and co-driver.

Concentrated motor sport expertise – faithfully embodied at MINI by its John Cooper Works sub-brand – is the not-so-secret ingredient in the MINI John Cooper Works GP recipe. The “GP” tag on the model title tells you exactly where the extreme sports edition of the compact MINI most tellingly reveals its potential. The GP’s chassis configuration, the effectiveness of its race-spec braking system, the grip offered by its likewise bespoke racing tyres, and its aerodynamic properties have been honed into a high-performance whole on the Nürburgring’s Nordschleife circuit, erstwhile venue for Formula One races and lauded as the world’s most challenging race track. The noteworthy lap time set by the MINI John Cooper Works GP is the product of this extensive testing programme.

The unadulterated transfer of motor sport expertise into the everyday driving environment has history at MINI; it was this approach that made the MINI Cooper S with John Cooper Works GP Kit the epitome of extreme driving fun in a small car when it was unveiled in 2006. Specific output of 100 kW/136 hp per litre of displacement and similarly impressive reserves of racing technology have secured its status as a sought-after collector’s item today.

The MINI John Cooper Works GP follows eagerly in the tyre tracks of its predecessor – and with an even greater spring in its step. It will be in similarly short supply; the world will have to make do with just 2,000 examples. Hosting the preview of the new model is another grand prix race track with history etched into every corner. The MINI John Cooper Works GP will be unveiled publicly for the first time at Le Castellet in France, venue for the MINI United festival on 11 – 13 May 2012.

See the press release Big on performance, small in number: The MINI John Cooper Works GP. Fastest MINI ever built – Best lap of the Nürburgring-Nordschleife: 8 min. 23 sec. – Extensive use of motor sport technology – Racing feeling transferred to the road – Preview at the MINI United festival – Production limited to 2,000 cars.

MINI announced yet another pair of special editions for 2012: the MINI Green Park and MINI Hyde Park.  Shown above is the MINI Hyde Park.  (See the MINI Green Park.)

From BMW Group PressClub Global:

As MINI defines the streetscape, so the Royal Parks in the heart of London define the structure and rhythm [...]]]>

MINI announced yet another pair of special editions for 2012: the MINI Green Park and MINI Hyde Park.  Shown above is the MINI Hyde Park.  (See the MINI Green Park.)

From BMW Group PressClub Global:

As MINI defines the streetscape, so the Royal Parks in the heart of London define the structure and rhythm of life of an entire city. For centuries they have constituted vital oases amid the hustle and bustle of the English capital. Now the championing of British tradition and lifestyle can be expressed in particularly stylish fashion courtesy of the design models MINI Hyde Park and MINI Green Park, whose exclusive colour combinations and trim levels lend them an appeal that is at once classic and sporty. Yet again MINI strikes attractive individual notes with these eye-catching characters on wheels who are ready to unleash their impact amid the urban traffic of other big cities as well.

Harmoniously combined design and trim features for the exterior and interior imbue the MINI Hyde Park and MINI Green Park with a self-assured and stylish presence. Both design models are available worldwide in MINI and MINI Clubman body styles. Depending on the market, there is a choice of up to four engine variants: the MINI Cooper and MINI Cooper Clubman with 90 kW/122 hp,
MINI Cooper D and MINI Cooper D Clubman (82 kW/112 hp), MINI Cooper S and MINI Cooper S Clubman (135 kW/184 hp) and the MINI Cooper SD and MINI Cooper SD Clubman (105 kW/143 hp). All engines come as standard with a six-speed manual transmission, while a six-speed automatic is optionally available.

MINI Hyde Park: classic espousal of a British way of life.

Unobtrusive extravagance is the defining element when it comes to the appearance of the MINI Hyde Park. Its discreet Pepper White body colour is combined with Hot Chocolate contrasting paintwork – available for the first time – on the roof and exterior mirror caps. A further facet of the MINI Clubman colour scheme are the lower sections of the C-pillar in body colour. To match the contrasting paintwork, the MINI Hyde Park also sports bonnet and side stripes in Hot Chocolate, while another highlight is provided by indicator lenses in transparent white. Along with the direction indicators integrated in the headlights, this lends the side indicators and rear lights a markedly individual look as well.

Inside the MINI Hyde Park, surfaces in Pepper White underline the classic, balanced overall impression. The seat upholstery and optional Colour Line draw on the entire range available to the MINI and MINI Clubman. Ensuring a particularly eloquent interior design match are seats in cloth/leather or Leather Gravity with the Carbon Black or Polar Beige Colour Line and the MINI Yours dashboard lined in leather in a Black/Polar Beige combination.

With the MINI Hyde Park, the British premium small car manufacturer continues the tradition of design and special-edition models named after parts of London. Hyde Park spans 140 hectares and is famous for its Speakers’ Corner on the northeastern edge. The park is a haven for countless leisure activities in the centre of London and a green oasis that invites you to stroll between the shopping hot spots of Kensington and Oxford Street. It is also the starting point for the London-Brighton Run, the annual veteran car rally. In 2012, as part of the Olympic Games hosted by the capital of MINI’s home country, the Triathlon and Marathon Swimming events will be held in Hyde Park.

MINI announced yet another pair of special editions for 2012: the MINI Green Park and MINI Hyde Park.  Shown above is the MINI Green Park.  (See the MINI Hyde Park.)

From BMW Group PressClub Global:

As MINI defines the streetscape, so the Royal Parks in the [...]]]>

MINI announced yet another pair of special editions for 2012: the MINI Green Park and MINI Hyde Park.  Shown above is the MINI Green Park.  (See the MINI Hyde Park.)

From BMW Group PressClub Global:

As MINI defines the streetscape, so the Royal Parks in the heart of London define the structure and rhythm of life of an entire city. For centuries they have constituted vital oases amid the hustle and bustle of the English capital. Now the championing of British tradition and lifestyle can be expressed in particularly stylish fashion courtesy of the design models MINI Hyde Park and MINI Green Park, whose exclusive colour combinations and trim levels lend them an appeal that is at once classic and sporty. Yet again MINI strikes attractive individual notes with these eye-catching characters on wheels who are ready to unleash their impact amid the urban traffic of other big cities as well.

Harmoniously combined design and trim features for the exterior and interior imbue the MINI Hyde Park and MINI Green Park with a self-assured and stylish presence. Both design models are available worldwide in MINI and MINI Clubman body styles. Depending on the market, there is a choice of up to four engine variants: the MINI Cooper and MINI Cooper Clubman with 90 kW/122 hp,
MINI Cooper D and MINI Cooper D Clubman (82 kW/112 hp), MINI Cooper S and MINI Cooper S Clubman (135 kW/184 hp) and the MINI Cooper SD and MINI Cooper SD Clubman (105 kW/143 hp). All engines come as standard with a six-speed manual transmission, while a six-speed automatic is optionally available.

[...]

MINI Green Park: ambassador of the sporting heritage.

The traditional British passion for sporting competition is expressed in the exclusive design of the MINI Green Park. The roof and exterior mirror caps display British Racing Green paintwork, forming a pleasing contrast with bodywork in Pepper White. Bonnet stripes in British Racing Green and transparent white lenses for the direction indicators heighten the distinctly classic-sporty look. On this design model, too, the lower C-pillars of the MINI Clubman are in body colour.

The MINI Green Park likewise has interior surfaces in Pepper White, reflecting a cabin design that takes its cue from the exterior. And providing the perfect complement again are seats in Black or Polar Beige and the MINI Yours leather-lined dashboard in a combination of Black/Polar Beige. Also available as an alternative to the MINI design favourites are all other variants along with the entire range of optional extras for the MINI and MINI Clubman.

The MINI Green Park takes its name from a recreational area very near Buckingham Palace. Covering an expanse of 19 hectares, this park forms a key element of the city’s green belt, linking Hyde Park to St James’ Park. All told, it makes for a walk of some four kilometres through the Royal Parks, from Kensington Palace in the west to Downing Street in the east.

Here is a little-known special edition package from MINI India following in the tradition of using names of London districts. We’ve already seen the Camden, Mayfair, Hampton, Baker Street, Bayswater, and Highgate.  Here we have the MINI KILBURN.

Although shown on the MINI India website, it seems these parts are in the MINI USA [...]]]>

Here is a little-known special edition package from MINI India following in the tradition of using names of London districts. We’ve already seen the Camden, Mayfair, Hampton, Baker Street, Bayswater, and Highgate.  Here we have the MINI KILBURN.

Although shown on the MINI India website, it seems these parts are in the MINI USA system and can be ordered in the United States.  Here’s what accessories are included in the MINI KILBURN Package.

	KILBURN Exterior Mirror Caps For vehicles without Fold-in outside mirror Right: 51162219600 Left: 51162219601 For vehicles with Fold-in outside mirror Left: 51162219609 Right: 51162219610
	KILBURN Pin Stripe Decal Kit Pair: 51142219602 Includes Side Stripe and Bonnet Stripes.
	KILBURN Side Scuttles Trim Cover Set: 51132219599 In conjunction with Carrier Set: 51130414453
	KILBURN Pin Stripe Decal Kit Pair: 51142219602 Includes Side Stripe and Bonnet Stripes.

In the press release before the New York International Auto Show, MINI announced a US-only special edition model to commemorate the ten years MINI has been in the United States.  It will come as a Cooper only.

From BMW Group PressClub Global:

Special model for the USA: MINI 10 Years Anniversary.

The second world [...]]]>

In the press release before the New York International Auto Show, MINI announced a US-only special edition model to commemorate the ten years MINI has been in the United States.  It will come as a Cooper only.

From BMW Group PressClub Global:

Special model for the USA: MINI 10 Years Anniversary.

The second world premiere at the Auto Show in New York is dedicated to the tenth anniversary of MINI on the US automobile market. The MINI 10 Years Anniversary was designed especially for customers in the USA. Based on the MINI Cooper, the 121 hp 4-cylinder anniversary model expresses the pioneering spirit of the first premium small car as it set out to take the USA by storm. “As you would expect, it is available in three paint finishes: red, white and blue – the three colors which make up the national flag of the USA,” says Dr. Kay Segler.

The Chili Red version on display features chrome driving lamps, 16″ R90 Cross Spoke Alloy wheels, larger rear spoiler, striped side graphics, and special “MINI 10 Years in America” grille badge and rear badge.

Read the entire press release MINI at the New York International Auto Show 2012.

From BMW Group PressClub Global:

The second world premiere at the Auto Show in New York is dedicated to [...]]]>
MINI announced a US-only special edition model to commemorate the ten years MINI has been in the United States.  It will come as a Cooper only.

From BMW Group PressClub Global:

We’ll post photos as soon as we have them.

Read the entire press release MINI at the New York International Auto Show 2012.

Earlier this year MINI announced three special editions for 2012: MINI Baker Street, MINI Bayswater, and MINI Convertible Highgate.  MINI USA has added these packages to its online Configurator.  Also, Reef Blue, previously offered only on the MINI Clubman Hampton Edition, is now available across the range (excluding the MINI Countryman).

See [...]]]>

Earlier this year MINI announced three special editions for 2012: MINI Baker Street, MINI Bayswater, and MINI Convertible Highgate.  MINI USA has added these packages to its online Configurator.  Also, Reef Blue, previously offered only on the MINI Clubman Hampton Edition, is now available across the range (excluding the MINI Countryman).

See the full article for details and images of the Baker Street and Bayswater special editions.

The Highgate Package (shown above) is for the MINI Convertible only (excluding JCW) and comes in Iced Chocolate Metallic with Highgate bonnet stripes and a Silvertouched Brown soft-top.  It has exclusive 17″ Double Cross wheels.  Inside, it has the Dark Truffle Color Line, Suntouched Brushed Alloy dash, and Highgate door sills.  The seats are Leather: Lounge Dark Truffle.  The price is $2,750 for the MINI Cooper Convertible and $2,500 for the MINI Cooper S Convertible.

The Bayswater Package (shown below, top) is for the MINI Cooper and MINI Cooper S.  Its exclusive color is Kite Blue Metallic with a Black roof and center Bayswater bonnet stripes.  The package includes exclusive 17″ Jet Black Sandblast wheels.  Inside, it has the Rocklite Anthracite Color Line , the Bayswater Dash, and Bayswater door sills.  The seats are Punch Leather: Rocklite Anthracite.  The price is $2,250.

The Baker Street Package (shown below, bottom) is for the MINI Cooper only.  Its exclusive color is Rooftop Gray Metallic with a Rooftop Gray or Black roof and Baker Street bonnet stripes.  The package gives the choice of 16″ 6-Star Spoke  Black or 17″ Conical Spoke Black wheels.  Inside, it has the Rooftop Gray Color Line, Rooftop Gray Cross Check dash, and Baker Street door sills.  The exclusive seat option is Leather/Cloth: Rooftop Gray Cross Check.  The price is $2,250.

Go to the MINI USA Configurator.

With the launch of the MINI Roadster last weekend, the MINI family expanded to six models.  Each family member comes in various model levels.  In a recent press release, BMW gave a figure for the total number of MINI variants:

The latest developments in the model range, which now comprises a total of 41 [...]]]>

With the launch of the MINI Roadster last weekend, the MINI family expanded to six models.  Each family member comes in various model levels.  In a recent press release, BMW gave a figure for the total number of MINI variants:

The latest developments in the model range, which now comprises a total of 41 variants, create even greater scope for customers to experience the hallmark MINI style and unsurpassed driving fun of the brand’s cars in their own individual way.

In the US—because we don’t get the MINI First, MINI One, or any diesel models such as the One D, Cooper D, or Cooper SD—there are currently only 19 variants on sale.

BMW didn’t list the 41 variants, so below is our attempt to list them all.

MINI Variants

Important variants in the past were the MINI Cooper S with John Cooper Works GP Kit (based on the R53) and the MINI E an all-electric MINI field-tested by BMW over the past few years.  The non-street-legal MINI CHALLENGE was for race use only.

Not included in MINI’s announcement yesterday (for the MINI Baker Street and MINI Bayswater) but posted on MINI Space today, is a third special edition MINI for 2012.  This one comes only in Convertible form.

From MINI Space:

The MINI Cabrio Highgate hails from the exclusive residential district of the Kingdom’s capital, an area [...]]]>

Not included in MINI’s announcement yesterday (for the MINI Baker Street and MINI Bayswater) but posted on MINI Space today, is a third special edition MINI for 2012.  This one comes only in Convertible form.

From MINI Space:

The MINI Cabrio Highgate hails from the exclusive residential district of the Kingdom’s capital, an area noted for its historic architecture and expansive green parks. Inside and out, we found the MINI Cabrio Highgate to be a true stand out. Dipped in what has to be one of the coolest sounding colors — Iced Chocolate Metallic — it gives off a muted but noble look. Catch a glimpse of it in the sunlight though and you’ll see some delicate shimmers of blue glowing underneath, and even a little unexpected sheen from the Silvertouched Brown soft top. Add to that the brown and black bonnet stripes accented with slim blue edges, it’s regal leather interior marked with bright blue piping and its stainless steel pedals, and you’ve got one finely dressed MINI.

From BMW Group PressClub Global:

MINI Bayswater: the extrovert sportsman.

The MINI Bayswater wears its inherent sporting élan and extrovert style very much on its sleeve. The Kite Blue metallic exterior paintwork was created exclusively for the special-edition model, as was the interior design and 17-inch light-alloy Sandblast wheels with high-gloss black surfaces and [...]]]>

From BMW Group PressClub Global:

MINI Bayswater: the extrovert sportsman.

The MINI Bayswater wears its inherent sporting élan and extrovert style very much on its sleeve. The Kite Blue metallic exterior paintwork was created exclusively for the special-edition model, as was the interior design and 17-inch light-alloy Sandblast wheels with high-gloss black surfaces and bright machined rim and spoke edges. Midnight Black metallic and Eclipse Grey metallic paint shades can be ordered for the MINI Cooper S and MINI Cooper SD as an alternative to the new, radiant Blue finish. The sporty appearance of the MINI Bayswater is emphasised by the black contrasting roof and the likewise newly created Sport Stripes for the bonnet, which streak dynamically towards the windscreen. The exterior mirror caps carry an identical stripe design – blue on the right-hand side of the car, grey on the left.

“Bayswater” lettering adorns the side indicator surrounds, door sills and seat tags. The Punch Leather seats come in the exclusive colour variant Rocklite Anthracite and include side bolsters sporting a metallic sheen and blue and grey contrast stitching. Two-tone contrast stitching also adorns the gearshift/selector lever and handbrake gaiters.

Other innovative design features in the interior include Piano Black cockpit trim strips, which continue the path set by the Sport Stripes over the bonnet, and the leather Colour Line elements in Rocklite Anthracite, whose classy character is emphasised by black stitching. The same leather variant is also used for the armrests, while the model-specific floor mats have anthracite-coloured edging and blue contrast stitching.

The MINI Bayswater also comes with stainless steel pedals and the Chrome Line Interior package, and includes the Pepper Pack in its range of equipment. Plus, the new special edition can likewise be specified with a wide variety of items from the optional equipment list if further individual touches are desired.

In keeping with its sporting charisma, the MINI Bayswater lines up for action with powerful engines at its fingertips. Customers can order their MINI Bayswater in MINI Cooper (90 kW/122 hp), MINI Cooper S (135 kW/184 hp), MINI Cooper D (82 kW/112 hp) or MINI Cooper SD (105 kW/143 hp) trim. The special-edition model is also delivered with a six-speed manual gearbox as standard, while a six-speed automatic features in the options range.

The MINI Bayswater takes its name from an extremely vibrant area of London. Located to the west of the city centre – halfway between the shopping hot spots of Knightsbridge and Notting Hill – Bayswater is best known for its unusually high density of bars and restaurants, not to mention the adjacent and no less famous Hyde Park. MINI is therefore returning to the London theme to further accentuate the link with both its home country and the fascination surrounding the London lifestyle. Indeed, both the MINI Bayswater and MINI Baker Street are following in the tyre tracks of a naming tradition begun by the classic Mini and reprised more recently with the MINI Camden, MINI Mayfair and MINI Clubman Hampton special editions.