With the addition of the John Cooper Works Roadster and the announcement of the forthcoming John Cooper Works Countryman, the six-member JCW model line-up is complete.  MINI announced changes to the JCW range in a new press release.

Munich. In keeping with the times, MINI will inject the ultra-sporty performance characteristics of its John [...]]]>

With the addition of the John Cooper Works Roadster and the announcement of the forthcoming John Cooper Works Countryman, the six-member JCW model line-up is complete.  MINI announced changes to the JCW range in a new press release.

Munich. In keeping with the times, MINI will inject the ultra-sporty performance characteristics of its John Cooper Works models with even greater efficiency from July 2012 with the introduction of a new-generation engine and other far-reaching powertrain innovations. Fresh from an intensive course of further development, the twin-scroll turbo engine develops the same levels of output and torque as its predecessor, but will make drivers’ hearts beat faster with its even quicker responses and stoke their admiration with substantially reduced fuel consumption and emissions. A much broader spread of MINIMALISM technology helps to enhance the efficiency of the John Cooper Works models, and all members of the sub-brand’s line-up can now be fitted as an option with a six-speed automatic gearbox. Added to which, the MINI John Cooper Works Countryman comes with the MINI ALL4 all-wheel-drive system as standard.

New-generation engine for the John Cooper Works models offers instantaneous power delivery and a restrained appetite for fuel.

An outstanding baseline concept and a constant flow of innovations provide the basis for sustained success in race competition and beyond. Indeed, a rigorously applied strategy of further development has also given the road-spec John Cooper Works models a decisive edge in their respective segments. Expertise refined over years of motor sport involvement has ensured ultra-sporty driving fun by perfecting the interplay of a powerful engine, advanced chassis technology, and bespoke exterior and interior design elements. And so the John Cooper Works models are poised to embark on the new season stronger than ever and with fresh power under the bonnet.

The family of elite athletes in the MINI ranks welcomes another new member in the shape of the MINI John Cooper Works Countryman. The five-door model is fitted with a particularly powerful variant of the new-generation engine. Its 160 kW/218 hp is channelled through an all-wheel-drive system to deliver a new take on outstanding performance that can be enjoyed not only on the road but also over rough terrain. Peak torque of 280 Newton metres (207 lb-ft) is available between 1,900 and 5,600 rpm, and the MINI John Cooper Works Countryman dashes from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 7.0 seconds – regardless of whether the power flows through the standard six-speed manual gearbox or the optional six-speed automatic. Top speed is 225 km/h / 140 mph (automatic: 223 km/h / 139 mph). Equally impressive is average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle of 7.4 litres per 100 kilometres / 38.2 mpg (automatic: 7.9 l/100 km / 35.8 mpg) and CO2emissions of 172 grams (184 g) per kilometre.

The new-generation engine can also be found in the MINI John Cooper Works, MINI John Cooper Works Clubman, MINI John Cooper Works Convertible, MINI John Cooper Works Coupe and MINI John Cooper Works Roadster. The further developed powerplant is based on the unit in the MINI Cooper S and likewise uses a twin-scroll turbocharger, petrol direct injection and variable valve control based on the BMW Group’s VALVETRONIC system. This throttle-free load control technology optimises both the responsiveness of the engine and its efficiency; lightning-fast reactions to the driver’s requests for power go hand-in-hand with a restrained appetite for fuel.

The technical make-up of the 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine – which sports a John Cooper Works logo on its cover – has a direct link to the development of race-trim engines and has been honed exclusively for the John Cooper Works models. Its cylinder block and bearing mounts are made from aluminium and join forces with reinforced pistons, a particularly high-strength cylinder head and low-weight crankshafts. The exhaust valves are sodium-filled to help provide the extra cooling required by a turbocharged engine, and the intake camshaft features infinite phase adjustment.

The turbocharger, meanwhile, develops even greater charge pressure than the engine in the MINI Cooper S Coupe. The likewise bespoke exhaust system can be identified from the outside by its polished stainless steel twin tailpipes.

The engine produces its maximum output of 155 kW/211 hp at 6,000 rpm, while peak torque of 260 Newton metres (192 lb-ft) is on tap between 1,850 and 5,600 rpm. The overboost function allows this figure to be raised to 280 Newton metres (207 lb-ft) for a short time between 2,000 and 5,200 rpm.

The new engine links up as standard with a six-speed manual gearbox tuned to suit its performance characteristics. However, the John Cooper Works models can now also be ordered as an option with a six-speed automatic gearbox with Steptronic function. The automatic also allows the driver to change gear manually using either the selector lever or the shift paddles on the steering wheel.

The press release also gives European emissions figures and lists some standard features.  Read the full press release Innovations designed to provide extreme driving fun and even greater efficiency. MINI presents the new John Cooper Works models.

Last year, MINI Motorsport introduced the MINI Coupe by entering a race-prepared version in the 24-Hours Nürburgring.  Both MINI John Cooper Works Coupé Endurance entries completed the race.

This year, MINI Motorsport is not entering any factory-sponsored teams.  However, four private teams are entering a total of five MINIs in the race running from May [...]]]>

Last year, MINI Motorsport introduced the MINI Coupe by entering a race-prepared version in the 24-Hours Nürburgring.  Both MINI John Cooper Works Coupé Endurance entries completed the race.

This year, MINI Motorsport is not entering any factory-sponsored teams.  However, four private teams are entering a total of five MINIs in the race running from May 19th to the 20th.

See the 24-Hours Nürburgring Starting List 2012.

The Olympic Games take place this summer in London and MINI is an official partner of Team GB.  As we have seen, MINI created a MINI London 2012 special edition for the UK for the London Olympics.  MINI UK has built the Great British Roar advertising campaign around its support of the Great Britain [...]]]>

The Olympic Games take place this summer in London and MINI is an official partner of Team GB.  As we have seen, MINI created a MINI London 2012 special edition for the UK for the London Olympics.  MINI UK has built the Great British Roar advertising campaign around its support of the Great Britain Olympic team.  MINI UK’s Facebook page has a MINI Great British Roar app which let’s you record a roar to inspire Team GB and win prizes.  As part of this promotion, MINI UK posted an offer on its Facebook page offering free window stickers:

Free Bee alert! it’s not often in this world that we get something for nothing but the kind MINI people at MINI UK are giving away free car stickers supporting Team GB in the run up to London 2012 and Ocean MINI couldn’t resist sharing it with you – click the MINI UK link above or email facebook@mini.co.uk then send us a snap of yours in your car! – the best picture will win some goodies!

Thanks to MINI UK for sending one across the Pond.

MINI teams were competing this weekend in two GRAND-AM series races with success at both levels.  The Continental Tire Sports Car Challenge and the newly renamed TOTAL Performance Showcase took place in New Jersey.

RSR Motorsports got the win in the B+ HEROES 200.  The team has two MINI Cooper S and two Honda [...]]]>

MINI teams were competing this weekend in two GRAND-AM series races with success at both levels.  The Continental Tire Sports Car Challenge and the newly renamed TOTAL Performance Showcase took place in New Jersey.

RSR Motorsports got the win in the B+ HEROES 200.  The team has two MINI Cooper S and two Honda Civic Si racecars, and it was the No. 197 Honda that finished on top.

1. 197 – Fergus / Trinkler – Honda Civic Si
12. 196 – Farmer / Hart – Honda Civic Si
22. 198 – Gimple / Puskar – MINI Cooper S

See the official results from the GRAND-AM website.

In the TOTAL Performance Showcase New Jersey B-Spec race, Robbie Davis in the MINI of Charleston MINI Cooper No. 37 led the entire race and took the checkered flag.

1. 37 – Robbie Davis – MINI Cooper – MINI of Charleston
2. 35 – Brian Audet – MINI Cooper – Urban East Racing
4. 55 – Chip Howell – MINI Cooper – Pioneer Racing

Read the articles Davis Takes TOTAL Performance Showcase Win In New Jersey and Davis Leads Flag To Flag At New Jersey Motorsports Park, Wins TOTAL.

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 United 2012 has begun!  Most of us here in the US are not attending but are interested in following the action and announcements in Le Castellet, France.  So to make it easier to find all of the photos, we created this MINI United 2012 photo gallery index.

Three MINI models have won the “Residual Value Champions” award: the MINI Cooper Coupe, MINI Cooper S Countryman ALL4, and the MINI One.  The awards are given to the vehicles expected to retain the highest percentage of initial value after four years.

From BMW Group PressClub Global:

Munich. Driving pleasure, premium quality, efficiency and [...]]]>

Three MINI models have won the “Residual Value Champions” award: the MINI Cooper Coupe, MINI Cooper S Countryman ALL4, and the MINI One.  The awards are given to the vehicles expected to retain the highest percentage of initial value after four years.

From BMW Group PressClub Global:

Munich. Driving pleasure, premium quality, efficiency and distinctive design are enduringly sought-after attributes, and they have helped four models in the current BMW Group range to secure a class win in the latest list of the “Residual Value Champions”. Published by the online version of Focus magazine, the rankings for the highest value retention models in the German car market see the MINI One, MINI Cooper Coupé, MINI Cooper S Countryman ALL4 and BMW X3 xDrive20d each taking the top slot in their segment. In the eyes of market observers, value depreciation for these models is expected to be particularly low, making them the best investment compared to their class rivals.

The rankings for the “Residual Value Champions” are based on predictions generated by the Saarbrücken market research institute Bähr & Fess Forecasts on the value curve of new models in 14 vehicle classes. To this end, the car market experts estimated the resale value after four years of a vehicle registered in 2012. The assessment proved particularly favourable in the case of the MINI Cooper Coupé. Freshly launched onto the market, this two-seater claimed a clear lead ahead of its class competitors not only in the percentage calculation but also in terms of absolute figures.

In assessing the potential value depreciation of a vehicle, the market observers take a wide range of data into account, including the purchase price, vehicle properties, brand image, and results in comparative tests and customer surveys. Beyond this, superseding facts such as the quality of competitors in the segment and general market developments are included in the evaluation.

Most recently, a car’s efficiency has also had a significant bearing on value retention. With their outstandingly low fuel consumption and emissions figures, BMW and MINI premium models are consistently building up credit that also has a positive impact in the resale value rankings.

The assessment of value retention is an important criterion for potential customers when it comes to choosing a car. After all, depreciation is a crucial cost factor the extent of which often only becomes clear when a vehicle is sold on. Models that are in demand in the used car market as well therefore have a better chance of making it into the ranks of the residual value leaders. The MINI Cooper Coupé is a good example, its resale value after four years being estimated at 57.5 per cent. The BMW X3 xDrive20d (57 per cent) likewise represents the best investment in its class. Matching it in value retention is the MINI Cooper S Countryman ALL4, which repeats its success of last year. In the small car category, the MINI One boasts the most stable value in the German market at 56.5 per cent. Beyond this, BMW and MINI models from the current range have made it into the top three in four more vehicle segments. The MINI Cooper Roadster, for example, is runner-up in its class with a particularly high residual value of 59.5 per cent.

See the press release Outstanding value retention: three MINIs and a BMW are among the latest “Residual Value Champions”.

Just a day before MINI United begins in France, MINI has released an iPhone app which connects with Facebook.  The purpose is simple, share photos of MINI United:

Share and explore your favorite moments from MINI United 2012 in Le Castellet, France right as they happen.

How it works:

From BMW Group PressClub Global:

MINI: With 23,789 vehicles delivered in April, worldwide sales for MINI remained at last year’s level (prev. yr. 23,839/ -0.2%). In the month under review, MINI achieved strong growth in several European countries such as France (1,569/ +22.2%) and Italy (1,652/ +13.9%), however there was lower demand in southern [...]]]>

From BMW Group PressClub Global:

MINI: With 23,789 vehicles delivered in April, worldwide sales for MINI remained at last year’s level (prev. yr. 23,839/ -0.2%). In the month under review, MINI achieved strong growth in several European countries such as France (1,569/ +22.2%) and Italy (1,652/ +13.9%), however there was lower demand in southern European countries such as Spain and Portugal. The brand also experienced dynamic growth in Asia, such as in Japan (1,353/ +32.4%), China (1,905/ +36.1%) and Korea (450/ +50.0%). The new MINI Roadster has had an excellent start with nearly 2000 units (1,976) already delivered to customers since its launch at the end of February. Year-to-date, MINI sales are up +8.6% with 92,000 units compared to 84,699 in the first four months of 2011.

See all MINI sales worldwide by month.