PressClub Global · Article.
MINI at the Los Angeles International Auto Show 2013.
Mon Nov 18 17:55:00 CET 2013 Press Release
North America premiere of the new MINI Hardtop is the highlight of the international auto show in California.
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Andreas Lampka
BMW Group
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Fax: +49-89-382-20626
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Author.
Andreas Lampka
BMW Group
This article in other PressClubs
Munich/Los Angeles. The British premium brand
provides one of the outstanding highlights at the 2013 Los Angeles
International Auto Show with the North America premiere of the new
MINI Hardtop. The presentation in the Californian movie capital takes
place just days after the official world premiere of the new model in
the UK - the home country of MINI. This makes the Los Angeles
International Auto Show the setting for the car's first ever auto show
appearance. From November 22nd to December 1st 2013, visitors will be
able to see how the model's design has been further evolved and take a
close look at its expanded interior space and new display and
operating concept, as well as finding out more about an entirely new
generation of MINI engines, completely revised suspension technology
and the very latest innovations in the field of driver assistance
systems. The debut of the new MINI Hardtop is supplemented with an
extensive presentation of the brand's other models. Those on display
will include the latest all-wheel drive models - the MINI John Cooper
Works Countryman ALL4 and the MINI John Cooper Works Paceman ALL4.
(ALL4 only available on S models in the US, only JCW Countryman and
Paceman will be on display in LA)
The new MINI Hardtop features an instantly recognisable upgrade
in terms of product substance that benefits its sporty, agile
handling, ride comfort and efficiency as well as enhancing its
unmistakable character, functionality and premium style. New engines
with MINI TwinPower Turbo Technology and likewise newly developed
transmissions increase the car's sprint capabilities while at the same
time reducing fuel consumption. Efficiency is significantly boosted by
the extensive MINIMALISM technology, consistently optimised weight and
improved aerodynamic properties.
The sophisticated technology of the new MINI Hardtop,
unparalleled in the small car segment, is also reflected in numerous
innovative features. For the first time ever, a MINI can be fitted
with adjustable dampers. The new MINI Driving Modes allows the car to
be driven in GREEN mode, including coasting function with decoupled
drivetrain. Another unique feature in this class of vehicle are the
optionally available LED headlamps. Meanwhile, the range of driver
assistance systems and MINI Connected Services has been significantly
expanded. New features in his area include the MINI Head-Up-Display,
parking assistant and rear view camera.
Hallmark proportions, optimised space.
This
latest evolutionary stage in the development of MINI enhances not only
driving fun but also the car's quality feel, space on all four seats
and level of safety. The new MINI is 98 millimetres (114 mm, 4.5
inches) longer, 44 millimetres (1.7 inches) wider and 7 millimetres
(0.3 inches) higher than its predecessor. The wheelbase has been
extended by 28 millimetres (1.1 inches) while the track has been
increased by 42 millimetres (1.7 inches) at the front and 34
millimetres (1.3 inches) at the rear. Cornering agility and ride
comfort benefit from these new dimensions as do the amount of space
available to occupants and the luggage compartment volume, which has
been increased by 51 litres (1.8 feet3) to a total of 211 litres (7.5
feet3).
Like its proportions, the evolutionary refinement of the model's
design ensures that characteristic features are retained. The
three-section body structure continues to define the car's distinctive
look in the new MINI. The main body of the vehicle, the greenhouse
glass section encompassing the entire car and the roof on top are
clearly separated from each other in visual terms. The wide track and
short overhangs emphasise the striking expression of the vehicle's
body, seated powerfully on the wheels. The athletic stature of the new
MINI is also highlighted by prominent lines in the side view.
Traditional design features such as the hexagonal contour of the
radiator grille, the side indicator surrounds known as side scuttles,
the circular headlights, the upright rear light clusters and the black
periphery around at the bottom edge of the body are reinterpreted and
given additional emphasis by means of a high-end surface design in
each specific area.
The MINI Cooper S draws its model-specific sporty flair from
such features as a radiator grille with honeycomb pattern, an
additional opening in the bonnet, brake air ducts integrated in the
lower air inlets and a separate rear apron with exhaust tailpipes
arranged at the centre. In addition to the side scuttle elements, the
radiator grille of this model variant now also bears an "S"
logo with chrome surround.
Unique in the segment: LED headlamps with adaptive light
distribution.
The new MINI is the first car in its
segment to offer the option of LED headlamps. The bright white LED
units are the light source for both low and high beam. They are also
surrounded by an LED daylight driving ring, of which the lower section
reaches down to the white turn indicators. Another option is an
adaptive light distribution function that ensures optimum illumination
of the road surface and roadside - depending on situation and route
profile - and also includes a turning light. The optional fog lamps
are likewise available in halogen or LED, according to preference. In
conjunction with the LED headlamps, the rear light clusters also come
as LED units.
High-end interior with new display and operating
concept.
The design of the interior likewise combines
hallmark brand styling with an optimised premium look and feel. A key
element here - in addition to the high-quality selection of materials
and colours - is the new display and operating concept. One of the
most important new features is the instrument cluster on the steering
column. Road speed, engine speed and fuel supply are displayed on
vertically arranged circular instruments. The speedometer scale
includes a colour display for Check Control messages, vehicle status
displays and visual indicators relating to currently activated driver
assistance systems.
With its new indicator elements and extended functionality, the
typical MINI central instrument intensifies interaction between driver
and car. As an optional extra, the interior of the LED ring can also
act as an on-board monitor. The color screen - measuring up to 8.8
inches - is used along with the MINI Controller on the centre console
to operate vehicle functions, infotainment, communication, navigation
and MINI Connected Services. This allows for intuitive, safe and
convenient operation based on the principles of the BMW iDrive system
- a ground-breaking force throughout the entire automotive sector.
The innovative display and operating concept is supported by a
lighting design in the area of the central instrument which is unique
to MINI. LED units around the outer edge of the circular instrument -
available in six colours - can respond to the current situation on the
road or else to specific operating steps as the driver prefers.
The increased interior space available and a wide range of
clever details make for further advancements in the area of
functionality. The split rear backrest is not only foldable, its tilt
angle can be adjusted too. Numerous cupholders and storage facilities
make it easy to take drinks and travel utensils along in the car, and
there is an additional storage compartment behind the decor strip on
the passenger side.
New engines with MINI TwinPower Turbo
Technology.
The new MINI lines up for its launch on the
US market in two model variants: the MINI Cooper and the MINI Cooper
S. Both are powered by newly developed engines featuring MINI
TwinPower Turbo Technology, including a turbocharging system, petrol
direct injection, variable camshaft control on the intake and exhaust
side (double VANOS) and fully variable valve control in the form of
VALVETRONIC, as patented by the BMW Group. The engines are combined
with a 6-speed manual transmission as standard, with the option of a
6-speed automatic transmission.
The new MINI Cooper S is powered by a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder
engine with a peak output of 141 kW/192 bhp (189 bhp in US) which goes
on stream between 4 700 and 6 000 rpm, delivering its maximum torque
of 280 Newton metres (207 ft-lbs) at 1 250 rpm. Torque can even
briefly be increased to 300 Newton metres (221 ft-lbs) by means of an
overboost function. As a result, acceleration from zero to 100 km/h
(62 mph) takes just 6.8 seconds (automatic: (6.7 seconds), while the
top speed is 235 km/h (146 mph) (233 km/h)(145 mph). This fascinating
sporty flair goes hand in hand with further optimised efficiency. The
combined range of the new MINI Cooper S is 28 mpg (automatic: 32 mpg).
The 3-cylinder engine in the new MINI Cooper - also newly
developed - delivers an output of 100 kW/136 bhp (134 bhp in US) from
a capacity of 1.5 litres and between 4 500 and 6 000 rpm with a
maximum torque of 220 Newton metres (162 ft-lbs) (230 Nm with
overboost(170 ft-lbs in US)) at 1 250 rpm. With this increased
performance the new MINI Cooper sprints from standing to 100 km/h (62
mpg) in 7.9 seconds (automatic: 7.8 seconds), while its top speed is
210 km/h (130 mph) in each case. In spite of these increased
performance figures, the new MINI Cooper Hardtop likewise demonstrates
a reduced level of fuel consumption. Its combined range is 34 mpg
(MINI Cooper Hardtop with automatic transmission).
MINI Driving Modes: sporty flair and efficiency and turn of a
switch.
For the first time, the MINI Driving Modes
option is now available for the new MINI Hardtop, allowing the driver
to select a preferred set-up. A rotary switch at the base of the gear
or selector lever is used to activate either the standard MID mode,
SPORT MODE or GREEN mode. The MINI Driving Modes influence the
characteristic curve of the accelerator and steering, as well as shift
properties of the automatic transmission and the damper set-up where
applicable.
In GREEN mode - supporting a relaxed and more fuel-efficient
driving style - the energy used by electrically powered comfort
functions such as the air conditioning and exterior mirror heating is
reduced. In cars fitted with automatic transmission it is also
possible to use the coast function. Here the drivetrain is decoupled
at speeds of between 50 and 160 km/h (31 and 99 mph), enabling the
driver to remove their foot from the accelerator pedal.
Optimised suspension technology: less weight, more go-kart
feeling and adjustable dampers for the first time.
The
refinement of suspension technology in the new MINI aims to intensify
experience of the car's agile handling properties, commonly known as
the go-kart feeling. Virtually all parts have been modified at the
front and rear axle so as to reduce weight and increase component
rigidity. The set-up of the wheel suspension, body mounting,
suspension, damping, steering and brakes has been adapted to the
increased engine output and to the typical MINI concept consisting of
front-wheel drive, transversely mounted engine at the front, low
centre of gravity, short overhangs, wide track and rigid,
weight-optimised body structure.
The optionally available adjustable dampers are another novel
element in the range of MINI equipment features. Two characteristic
lines are available for damper set-up, allowing activation of either a
more comfort-oriented or a direct, sporty response to road surfaces,
depending on the given situation. The electromechanical power steering
has also been subjected to extensive further development and includes
the speed-related assistance function Servotronic as standard. DSC
(Dynamic Stability Control) - likewise a standard feature - now also
features a dry brake function, fading compensation, a drive-off
assistant and the traction mode DTC (Dynamic Traction Control).
Meanwhile cornering agility is enhanced by means of Electronic
Differential Lock Control (EDLC), and the new MINI Cooper S
additionally features System Performance Control.
Innovative driver assistance systems increase convenience and
safety.
Further evidence of the technological progress
ushered in with the new MINI Hardtop is to be found in the program of
driver assistance systems. New features include the MINI
Head-Up-Display which shows information relevant to the driver on an
extendible monitor in the upper section of the dashboard between the
windscreen and steering wheel. A rear view camera and parking
assistant are also available for the new MINI. The rear view camera,
housed underneath the tailgate handle, transmits video images to the
on-board monitor in the central instrument. The parking assistant
automatically identifies suitable parking spaces at the roadside and
takes care of all the steering movements required to park the car.
A wide range of other high-end options in the areas of comfort,
functionality and individuality are also available to allow drivers to
style the new MINI according to their own detailed personal
preferences. In addition to the standard air conditioning systemthere
is also a 2-zone automatic air conditioning system, seat heating for
driver and front passenger, a panorama glass roof, rain sensor and
automatic light control, the harman kardon hi-fi speaker system and a
sports leather steering wheel including optional multifunction buttons
and cruise control.
Other options include Comfort Access, Park Distance Control,
roof rails and electrically heatable and folding exterior mirrors as
well as interior and exterior mirrors featuring automatic anti-dazzle
function. For customisation of the exterior and interior in hallmark
brand style, options also include a rear spoiler in John Cooper Works
design as well as various roof and exterior mirror decors, bonnet
stripes, seat upholsteries, interior surfaces, Color Lines and the
lighting package with LED interior lighting and ambient lighting.
MINI Connected: Apps now also available for Android smartphones
.
The option MINI connected is also available in
conjunction with the Radio MINI Visual Boost and the MINI navigation
system. It offers extensive integration of smartphones in the car and
therefore the use of internet-based services in the areas of
infotainment, communication and driver experience. These are provided
via apps whose functional diversity is being continuously expanded. In
future, both the MINI Connected App and the so-called MINI Connected
ready Apps supplied by third-party providers will be available not
just for the Apple iPhone but also for smartphones using the Android
operating system.
MINI in the USA: the success story goes on.
The
2013 Los Angeles International Auto Show provides the perfect setting
for the first auto show appearance of the new MINI Hardtop. For years
now, the USA has been the most important market for the small cars and
compact models of the British premium brand. The 500 000th MINI was
supplied in the United States earlier this year, and nowhere in the
USA is the MINI Community larger than in the Californian entertainment
capital. The British brand reaches its highest nationwide market share
in Los Angeles.
The best-selling model in the USA continues to be the iconic
body version, also known as the Hardtop. The new MINI now has
everything it takes to carry its predecessor's success story forward
with fresh impetus. But the continuing growth of MINI is also due to
the consistent expansion of the model range. So MINI will not just be
showing the model family's new arrivals in the South Hall of the Los
Angeles Convention Center but will display as diverse a selection as
possible of the driving fun, premium quality and individual flair
which is typical of the brand.
The MINI family has continuously grown over recent years to
reach its current range of seven models. Hallmark brand qualities are
to be found in the classic MINI vehicle concept just as they are in
the MINI Clubman, which offers the additional feature of expanded
space. As a purebred two-seater, the MINI Coupé embodies a thoroughly
sporty style. With the MINI Convertible and the MINI Roadster,
motorists are offered two ways of enjoying the brand's typical driving
fun in an open-top premium small car. And there are also two models
now representing the brand's venture into a new market segment. The
trailblazer here was the MINI Countryman, the first model of the brand
to be fitted with four doors, a large tailgate and space for up to
five occupants. As of this year, this agile all-rounder is now joined
by the MINI Paceman, the world's first ever Sports Activity Coupé in
the premium compact segment. The ALL4 all-wheel drive system specially
developed for MINI is also available for the MINI Countryman and the
MINI Paceman.With supreme traction and enhanced agility on bends, it
adds yet another distinctive touch to the authentic driving fun
offered by MINI.
In the USA, too, the aspirations of especially high-performance
MINI models are addressed by the extremely sporty John Cooper Works
versions. The range of top sports cars in the small car and compact
segment has now reached a total of seven models. With their drive and
suspension technology derived directly from motorsport, an
aerodynamically optimised exterior and specific interior styling, the
John Cooper Works models generate an authentic race feeling. In the
MINI John Cooper Works Countryman and the MINI John Cooper Works
Paceman, the enormous power of the 4-cylinder turbo engine is
transferred to the road by the standard ALL4all-wheel drive system to
adapt to driving conditions.
Note: The cars described in this press release correspond to the
engine and fittings specifications of the US automobile market.
Deviations are possible in other markets. All figures for driving
performance figures and fuel consumption figures are provisional.
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