International Mini of Milwaukee

First Drive: 2012 Mini Cooper Roadster

2012-02-10T08:40:00.001-08:00

If you're puzzled, as we are, by what the new Mini Roadster is supposed to be that the existing Mini Convertible is not, the folks from Mini offer this explanation: "It's the return of the British roadster."

Uh, we know it's been a while since actual British roadsters -- MGs and Triumphs and the like -- zipped along America's back roads (and broke down on their shoulders), but we remember them as quite a bit different than this Mini. The slender sports cars followed a classic formula seemingly laid down at the dawn of time, with a longitudinally mounted engine up front driving the rear wheels. The Mini Roadster, on the other hand, follows the formula of other Minis, with a transverse-mounted engine and front-wheel drive.

Soft-top sibling to the hardtop Coupe The Roadster is essentially a softtop version of the two-seat hardtop Coupe, which went on sale last fall. In both cars, the back seat area is given over to a bulkhead that has a lockable, 14-by-8-inch pass-through to an 8.5-cubic-foot trunk -- which betters the 6.0 cubic feet you get in the Convertible. As in the Coupe, the deck lid here incorporates a pop-up rear spoiler that deploys automatically at 50 mph to provide additional downforce (or flip it up manually with a switch on the windshield header). The Roadster also has the Coupe's reinforced body structure, lower ride height, and deeper front spoiler.

Yep, it drives like a Mini

These are not exactly transformative changes. And indeed, the Roadster drives pretty much like any other Mini. Mostly, of course, that's a very good thing. The Roadster will be available from launch in all three strengths: 121-hp Cooper; turbocharged 181-hp Cooper S; and full-tilt-boogie, 208-hp John Cooper Works. We drove the Cooper S version, and it is a lively performer (6.7 seconds from 0 to 60 mph, according to the manufacturer). Turbo lag is not an issue, and this engine gleefully zings the Roadster down urban freeways and rural two-lanes, accompanied by a snarling exhaust note -- and the occasional racy popping through the exhaust on throttle lift-off.

Green Car Reports - MINI Cooper Diesels May Be U.S. Bound: Report

2012-01-27T09:21:00.001-08:00

Contrary to the myth that U.S. buyers don’t want diesels, MINI head Dr. Kay Segler reports that diesel MINI models are the most common request from its U.S. customers.

Segler told Car and Driver that, “We’re delighted to hear it,” before confirming that the brand is seriously looking into the possibility of importing diesels into the United States.

Don’t expect this to happen with the current, second-generation MINIs, since Segler admits that U.S. diesel models are a “medium term” consideration, not a short term one.

If that sounds vaguely ambiguous, there’s probably a good reason for it. At the moment, emission standards for diesel passenger cars differ between the U.S. and the E.U., but that changes in 2014 when the E.U. adopts the current (stricter) U.S. standard.

It’s not economical for manufacturers to certify diesels just for the U.S. market, especially when they won’t sell in the same volume as gasoline-powered equivalents. That changes in 2014, which is why we expect to see more diesel options in the future.

Read More: http://www.greencarreports.com/news/1072250_mini-cooper-diesels-may-be-u-s-bound-report

Confirmed: Mini Planning Another John Cooper Works GP Model

2012-01-19T14:22:00.001-08:00

We’ve learned from a Mini executive that the company will build another hard-core John Cooper Works GP variant. The first GP model, sold in limited numbers for the 2006 model year, was more powerful and lighter than the contemporary Cooper S JCW on which it was based; these traits likely will carry over to the new one. (The first-gen car is pictured above.)

Figure on a very modest bump in output to 220 hp or so from the 208 on tap in the current JCW. It’s possible that the GP’s amped-up 1.6-liter turbo four will be tuned identically to the one scheduled for the upcoming John Cooper Works Countryman, as we were told that the mini-SUV will offer a touch more than 208 hp, too.

The original GP also featured an extensively revised suspension; the weight savings came through the removal of the rear seats and air conditioning. Similar modifications probably will be made to create the new car.

There was no word from Mini on timing, but we expect it to appear within the next year.

Read More: http://blog.caranddriver.com/confirmed-mini-planning-another-john-cooper-works-gp-model/

2013 Mini John Cooper Works Countryman Driven: The Un-Mini Gets Un-Screwed Up

2011-12-16T09:39:00.000-08:00

At the Geneva auto show in March, Mini will unveil the John Cooper Works Countryman. But this week, high in the Austrian Alps, the company gave us the opportunity to try one ahead of its official debut. After flogging it through ice- and snow-bathed roads winding through the mountains, we have good news to report: This is the best Countryman by far, and it may very well be the best John Cooper Works Mini.

Something Old, Something New

Much of the John Cooper Works Countryman is carried over directly from the Cooper S Countryman with the Sport package. The ALL4 all-wheel-drive system, which drives the front wheels under normal circumstances but can direct up to 50 percent of the engine’s torque to the rear wheels, is identical here. ALL4 is also will be the only powertrain offered in the JCW model—unlike lesser Countrymen S, which are available with front- or all-wheel drive. The Sport-packed Cooper S Countryman already is 0.4 inch lower than the regular Countryman, and as we've experienced in our long-termer, rides plenty stiffly. With this in mind, we're relieved that Mini didn't give the JCW version an even harsher suspension setup. Our dental plan only covers so many repairs per year for chipped teeth.

A JCW aero kit adds a sportier front fascia and a new rear bumper. The snout is big in person, but when paired with the JCW Countryman’s lower stance, it removes some of the hatchback-on-stilts look of lesser models. Score one for the styling team.

Read More: http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/2013-mini-john-cooper-works-countryman-drive-review

MINI Dealers Milwaukee

2012 Mini Cooper Roadster Priced: Base, $25,050; Cooper S, $28,050; JCW, $35,200

2011-11-23T09:28:00.000-08:00

Mini recently revealed its new 2012 Roadster, a convertible version of its rakish Coupe, and now it has announced pricing. The base Cooper Roadster starts at a fairly reasonable $25,050. Next up is the turbocharged Cooper S, which rings in at a pricey $28,050. Finally, the range-topping John Cooper Works version will set you back an eye-watering $35,200. Those prices are between $2750 and $3300 more than an equivalent Mini Coupe.

The two-seat Roadster’s pricing is actually $600 cheaper in each spec than the Mini Convertible (which has two vestigial rear seats); we’d have expected it to cost more, given that Mini charges between a $1300 and $1800 premium for a Coupe over the standard Hardtop. Plus, the Roadster looks way cooler than the conventional Mini Convertible, so we’ll award points for avoiding a style tax. It must be noted, however, that a 412-hp, rear-drive 2012 Ford Mustang GT convertible costs just $305 more than the 208-horse JCW. If you prefer your top-down motor to be tiny and front-wheel drive, though, your first opportunity to purchase a 2012 Mini Roadster will be in February.

Read More: http://blog.caranddriver.com/2012-mini-cooper-roadster-priced-base-25050-cooper-s-28050-jcw-35200/

www.automobilemag.com: 2012 Mini Cooper S Coupe

2011-11-04T07:49:00.000-07:00

Well, what do you get when you leap $10K in price from the Hyundai Veloster and the Volkswagen Beetle? You get a much sportier chassis, for sure, a much more energetic powertrain, and the best steering of the trio. You also get an incredibly harsh ride and lots of torque steer. This car scores high on performance and style, very low on value and utility. The equivalent Mini Cooper hardtop (the original, base car) is just as good to drive but has enough room for four people in a pinch or, say, four wheels and tires so you can drive to track day and swap them out. That said, I just checked the trunk again and this Mini does actually have a decent amount of cargo room.

Is the toggle switch new with this car? I don't recall using it on my drive in Vienna, but that was all on the track and we really didn't use many secondary controls. In any case, it's intuitive and it reminds me of similar multi-layered menus in other BMWs.

Harman Kardon stereo is great. Seats are great.

While sitting in the coupe on the first floor of the parking structure, I've just been accosted by an AATA bus driver, who loves this thing, says "they got it right. it's very sporty." Plus a woman and a couple who just got out of their stock Mini hardtop. The woman part of this couple asked, "Is it a convertible? Does the top come off?" It's interesting that this is her perception. The man was impressed that there's a movable rear wing "Oh, that's like on Porsches!" I told them that there is a roadster version coming next year and that I think it will be more popular.

Chicago MINI

Rumor: MINI Countryman Prodrive

2011-10-28T07:33:00.000-07:00

Recent spy photos reveal that Prodrive is working on a production version of the MINI Countyman. The Banbury-based engineering firm developed the MINI Countryman WRC that runs in this year’s rally championship.

MINI WRC is powered by a 1.6-litre, four-cylinder Di turbo-charged engine. The power transmission takes place via an Xtrac 6-speed, sequential gearbox. For its outings on the rally stages, the MINI Countryman chassis has been fitted with a roll cage developed by Prodrive, which exceeds the strict safety.

But now, the company wants to bring a road-legal version of the Countryman WRC. According to Autocar UK, team principal and Prodrive boss Dave Richards has previously mentioned that Prodrive-tuned MINI road cars were possible.

The spy shots reveal a heavily modified all-wheel-drive Countryman Cooper S featuring a muscular body kit that includes a large fixed carbon fiber wing, along with custom unbranded alloy wheels.
Under the hood, the MINI Countryman by Prodrive would sport a Superchips-tuned version of the Cooper S’s turbocharged 1.6-litre petrol engine. A Prodrive-branded Milltek exhaust is fitted to the car. Sources close to Autocar reveal have indicated that the car outputs 230 hp on the dyno, but additional power can be squeezed out of the Superchips.

Read More: http://www.bmwblog.com/2011/10/24/rumor-mini-countryman-prodrive/

Wisconsin MINI

MINI E Meetup: End Of The Line For Electric Car 'Experiment'

2011-10-13T10:06:00.001-07:00

After a two-year run, BMW’s MINI E adventure is nearing its end.

The car may seem old hat to people like Tom Moloughney, who has clocked over 65,000 miles on his MINI E--and who hosted the event at his restaurant.

But to the passers-by who stopped in to check out the cars, it’s still all new.

The top three questions remain, “How far can it go?”, “It really doesn’t take any gas?” and “How long does it take to charge?” We still have a long way to go before no one takes a second look at electric cars like the MINI E.

MINI E pioneers - the name that BMW have given to the few hundred of us who leased MINI Es - are both sad and happy. It's sad to see the end of the program that delivered us one of the most fun-to-drive cars we've ever used, but we're happy that its replacement will be here soon.

That car, the BMW ActiveE, promises even more refinement, even better driving dynamics and… this is a big one… four seats. Hurray!

We tell onlookers the MINI E is a “science experiment.” And as much as we love it, it has been just that: an experiment.

BMW took 450 standard MINI Coopers for the U.S. market and adapted them with a battery and drive system from AC Propulsion. The drive system is an adapted ‘tzero’ drive train that can also be found in a handful of low-volume specialist conversions: the ACP EBOX (a converted SCION xB), the Wrightspeed Arial Atom, and the Yokohama HER02 that just finished attacking this years Pike's Peak hill climb.

Read More: http://www.greencarreports.com/news/1067036_mini-e-meetup-end-of-the-line-for-electric-car-experiment

REVIEWS: First Drive: 2012 Mini Cooper S Coupe

2011-09-29T09:43:00.001-07:00

Looking at the size of its lineup, Mini's portfolio is anything but mini. Currently, the automaker sells twelve different models based on four different body styles. By the end of the year, those figures will swell to fifteen and five, respectively. Come 2013, new additions like the Roadster, the Paceman, and the Goodwood will increase the model count to a Porsche 911-like twenty-two.

Is that overkill? It depends who you ask. Mini USA vice president Jim McDowell doesn't think that the firm is "slicing the salami too thin," but rather, launching new products catering to the unique wants and needs of different customer bases. In the case of the 2012 Mini Cooper Coupe, however, that base may be quite small.

All-New From The Waist Up
In some ways, the Coupe steps on the toes of other Mini models, particularly the standard four-passenger hatchback. From the beltline down, the two models -- in Cooper, Cooper S, or John Cooper Works (JCW) form -- are virtually identical, sharing powertrains, bodywork, and most chassis components with one another.

But when it comes to styling, the Coupe steps out from the hardtop's shadow. Much like the 2008 concept car of the same name, the Mini Coupe adopts a rakish, low-slung roofline, inspired in part by vintage tuner Minis like the Broadspeed GT. According to product planner Vinnie Keung, this not only is supposed to lend the car a more masculine feel, but also lure in buyers who long for the likes of an Audi TT or a Mercedes-Benz SLK but who may not have the means to acquire one.

To enhance that boy-racer feel, the Coupe's windshield rake is now thirteen degrees lower, while a rounded roof -- painted either black or silver -- breaks away from the two-box form traditionally associated with Minis. A spoiler is integrated into the trailing edge of the roof, and helps direct airflow towards another spoiler, which pops up from the stubby decklid at speeds above 50 mph.

REVIEWS: 2011 Mini Cooper S Countryman ALL4 - Four Seasons Update - September 2011

2011-09-23T08:57:00.001-07:00

Months in service: 2
Miles to date: 4326

When we last left off with our Mini Countryman, New York Bureau Chief Jamie Kitman was about to set out in it on his annual family pilgrimage to PNC park to see the Pittsburgh Pirates. He reports:

"Well, the sales figures are in, and the Countryman is a winner, accounting for a third of Mini's worldwide volume, almost instantly. The purist in me is mildly offended -- the thing weighs 3300 pounds fer chrissake -- but I can understand why it's so popular: four doors, four-wheel drive, and the sort of usability that buyers of ordinary Minis and even the Clubman forego. As easily accessed back seat made possible a trip to Pittsburgh with my octogenarian parents (also Mini owners) in tow. And we averaged 30 mpg on the trip home, which is not too bad for a crossover with all-wheel drive."

Kitman gave props to the powertrain ("peppy and tractable, acceptably linear for a turbo"), the seats ("pretty supportive and comfortable"), the brakes ("peachy"), the roadholding, and the economy. In the debit column, he put the steering ("eager at first swipe, but in fact over-eager -- too alert"); visibility ("you'd have thought the extra height would result in improved visibility, but no"); the dash design ("Mini keeps mixing it up, but it's not getting any better"); the L-shaped handbrake ("pointless"); and, of course, the ride quality.

Oh, and the Pirates won both games, beating the Saint Louis Cardinals.

After Pittsburgh, the Countryman went on another road trip, this time to the Adirondacks, to escape the impending hurricane Irene (a plan that ultimately didn't work out so well). We had the car packed pretty full with three people, two coolers, and all the attendant luggage. There's a handy bit of extra storage space under the cargo floor and we also folded down one of the rear seatbacks (they do not fold flat). The biggest road-trip packing challenge, though, is up front, where there's almost nowhere to put anything.

On the empty rural roads in the Adirondack foothills, the Mini was really in its element, barreling up and down the inclines and zooming through the sweeping curves. Not so fun was the oxcart ride quality, which requires the driver to keep an extra-vigilant lookout for even the slightest road imperfections. When the rain finally arrived, we were impressed with the ALL4 all-wheel-drive system's ability to apportion the torque, such that we never saw the flashing indicator of the traction control system.

Back home, we gave the Countryman a well-earned wash in the driveway, and discovered that the chrome beltline molding isn't really chrome at all. It's plastic with a chrome-colored sticker on it. That sticker is too short in places, doesn't sit flush around corners, and is already coming unstuck.

Over the next few days, we made a couple runs into the city, where the Mini's tidy size was, predictably, a boon for slipping through Manhattan's clogged streets. Rear-seat riders continue to be impressed with the space back there, but the rear compartment would be more comfortable if the door armrests weren't molded plastic.

MINI Coupe: “Another Day. Another Adventure.”

2011-08-30T13:21:00.001-07:00

The “Another Day. Another Adventure.” international campaign will be launched to coincide with the world premiere of the new MINI Coupé at the IAA International Motor Show. MINI fans will be able to experience not only the sporty two-seater but also real driving fun through TV, print and the social web.

The new MINI Coupé is the latest member of the MINI family. The two-seater has a license for everyday adventure – as shown in the campaign. The “Another Day. Another Adventure.” slogan itself clearly signals that MINI is taking an unconventional approach with this campaign.

TV and print
The three TV commercials showcase the new MINI Coupé as the ideal companion for every adventure. The three locations of Rio de Janeiro, Iceland and Hong Kong promise fascinating landscapes and cultures.

In the “Sunday in Rio” TV spot, the MINI Coupé accompanies dancers to the legendary Carnival in Rio and transports viewers to a colourful world of samba. In “Tuesday in Iceland”, the MINI Coupé and its somewhat suspicious passenger are driving across a remote winter landscape; in the third, “Wednesday in Hong Kong”, a MINI Coupé driver “kidnaps” an attractive young woman in a breath-taking car chase. Acclaimed cameraman César Charlone, who was nominated for an Academy Award for best cinematography for his work in “City of God”, was brought in to shoot the films under the direction of Kevin Thomas of THOMAS & THOMAS Films.

The corresponding advertisements and billboards will also instil a thirst for adventure with the MINI Coupé. The locations used in the TV commercials also provide the background for print advertising.

Read More: http://www.bmwblog.com/2011/08/30/mini-coupe-%E2%80%9Canother-day-another-adventure-%E2%80%9D/

REVIEWS: 2011 Mini Cooper S Countryman ALL4 - Four Seasons Update - August 2011

2011-08-24T14:00:00.001-07:00

Months in service: One
Miles to date: 1957

After taking delivery of the Mini Countryman at Mini HQ in New Jersey, our Cooper S Countryman All4 spent its first month in New York, where first impressions were formed and where we began to evaluate the relative merits of the equipment we'd ordered.

Right off the bat, we're liking the turbocharged engine, which seem more essential in this car than any other Mini, if only because of the Countryman's greater size and weight. It being mid-summer, all-wheel drive hasn't yet been able to show off its winter-weather advantages, but it's welcome even on dry, sunny days because it effectively vanquishes torque steer.

When pulling away from a stop, it takes a moment before the turbo kicks in, so if you don't rev the engine when you're slipping the clutch the car can bog down for a second (at that point, the hill-holder feature is often quite welcome). Then the turbo kicks in, and the Cooper S Countryman scoots ahead with characteristic Mini verve. Mini claims the 0-60 time to be 7.3 seconds (with all-wheel-drive and the manual transmission), significantly quicker than the base engine's 9.8 seconds (with the manual and front-wheel drive). So far, in mostly around-town driving, we're averaging 29 mpg, which is not bad at all -- although that is on premium fuel.

The shift action and clutch are getting full marks, as is the electric power steering. Mini does electric assist better than just about anyone. Despite its larger dimensions, the Countryman is nearly as zippy through traffic as the standard Mini. Alas, the ride is pretty harsh, which is also very much like the standard Mini. At this point, we're glad to have skipped the sport suspension, but we're thinking that the upsized, 18-inch wheels were probably a mistake. Impacts are sharp, and the car can skip sideways when you hit a bump on an off-ramp.

We used the Countryman to go out to dinner with another couple, which is not something you would do with any other Mini. There were no complaints from those riding in back. In fact, they were ooh-ing and ahh-ing over how cool the car was. That is, until we hit our first sharp-edged bump, which caused a very different expletive -- and a mumbled apology from the driver.

As to other features of this particular Countryman, opinions are still forming on the navigation system. It comes with a Mini version of BMW's iDrive, which is somewhat cumbersome to use. We have not, however, dialed in to all the system's features, so more on that anon. There is a little cell-phone cradle thing on the center console, but it's poorly located (under the center armrest); if you just drop your cell phone into one of the two cupholders instead, you've effectively used up half your stowage space.

As its first month was drawing to a close, New York bureau chief Jamie Kitman grabbed the keys and was setting off for Pittsburgh with his family to take in a Pirates game. Since our Countryman wears Pirates colors, maybe they got preferential parking. In any event, check back next month to see what Kitman had to say.

Win A Trip To Cape Canaveral With MINI’s 10th Birthday Celebrations

2011-08-17T14:21:00.001-07:00

MINI marks a decade of fun and stylish motoring with a launch into space and the chance to win a trip of a life time. Over a third of a million Brits have bought one, they’ve clocked up an estimated 15 billion miles on UK roads and have driven enough miles to go around the world 600,000 times or take 33,000 return journeys to the moon and back*…

In the summer of 2001 the very first BMW built MINI rolled off of the production line in Oxford, 10 years later MINI is celebrating a decade of motoring by taking its owners on a virtual trip into space.

MINI is inviting its owners and enthusiasts to log the details of their car into a virtual space world called ‘MINI Lunatics’ (www.mini.co.uk/lunatics). Using the car’s mileage, their MINI will be blasted into the depths of virtual space before being docked in the MINI space station.

Exclusive prizes are available for lucky owners who randomly dock in a part of the MINI space station where a prize is hidden. A trip for four to Cape Canaveral is also up for grabs for any ‘MINI Lunatics’ who find seven hidden words which have been carefully placed around the site. Users can enter the prize draw by clicking on the moon.

Extra special prizes are also up for grabs for drivers who have driven the equivalent distance to the moon. Drivers with 252,000 miles or more can register their MINI’s details to be in with a chance of winning special limited edition MINI memorabilia.

Read More: http://www.bmwblog.com/2011/08/11/win-a-trip-to-cape-canaveral-with-minis-10th-birthday-celebrations/

REVIEWS: 2011 Mini Cooper S Countryman ALL4 - Four Seasons Introduction

2011-08-11T11:30:00.000-07:00

The Countryman is a big deal for Mini. It's likely to be the biggest selling of all the body styles added since the original hatchback. It's also the variant that most stretches the definition of what a Mini is. For these two reasons, we wanted to take an in-depth look at the Countryman, so we ordered one up for a Four Seasons test.

We went to the Mini configurator to spec it up, which was a lot of fun. All-wheel drive, a first for Mini, seemed important, and that necessitated stepping up to the Cooper S, with its 181-hp, turbocharged 1.6-liter engine. So that started us off at $27,650, which is $4300 more than the base, front-wheel drive, 121-hp Cooper Countryman.

To that we added the Cold Weather Package (heated seats, power folding mirrors, heated mirrors and washer jets, $750), because there's plenty of cold weather where we live. We went for Gravity Leather ($1500), rather than the even swankier Lounge Leather ($2000). We did, however, add chrome interior trim ($250) to replace some of the gray plastic, and a center armrest, which seems like it should be standard but also costs $250.

To report on Mini's latest in-car electronics, we ordered Mini Connected with Navigation, for $1750. Automatic, adaptive, and Xenon headlamps were actually three separate upgrades that in total swelled the bottom line by $850.

Finally, as is so tempting with a Mini, we inflated the sticker still further with visuals. The contrasting roof and mirror caps are no-charge items, but not the 18-inch anthracite 5-star double-spoke wheels, which were $1250. We also couldn't resist twin hood stripes, at $100.

All that brought the total for our Countryman to $34,350, which sounds like a lot, but it could have been more, much more. To give just a few examples: We skipped the automatic transmission ($1250) and rear park aid ($500), both of which seemed anathema to a Mini. We avoided the sport suspension ($500) because of the wretched condition of our roads. And we bypassed the dual-pane sunroof ($1000) and the automatic climate control ($500), in an uncharacteristic bit of self-denial.

The Countryman's popularity meant we had to wait several months for our car to arrive, and when it finally did we were so anxious to get it that we went to BMW/Mini headquarters in New Jersey to pick it up. Mini product planner Johnly Velazquez took some time to show us how the Mini Connected systems works (a lot like iDrive, as it turns out), and to show us features like the two-position rear cargo floor panel that also can snap into place behind the rear seatback, and the center rail that serves as an attachment point for cupholders, a cell-phone bracket, and a sunglass case.

Rumor: MINI Traveller

2011-07-29T10:07:00.000-07:00

First news around a future MINI model, dubbed Spacebox, appeared back in 2009. At the time, the futuristic project was described as an unique, dynamic, spacious, yet still powerful vehicle”.
Also labeled internally as the Progressive ACTIVITY MINI, Spacebox project comes back to life with a new name and information revealed by the usual insider, Scott27. Before jumping into the rumor, we would like to point that we were unable to confirm the allegations below with a second source.

“If there is one phrase to describe the brief for the MINI Traveller then it is named the “swiss-army-knife MINI variant”. Its internal name is “Spacebox” because it is all about increasing practicality and flexibility of a MINI for the MINI customer who has to move to another brand because they have a family that has grown or simply they need more space.

In order to show how the MINI brand can be accommodated with a concept that is less van in appearance, the MINI Traveller will be shown as a Concept car in the not-so-distant future. The car will showcase how innovation is achieved not only from the outside but also from the inside.

The theme for the Traveller is very much “Access all areas,” and uses the typical MINI solutions to passenger access such as rear-hinged doors and barn doors which could be configured Clubman style or in a 60/40 opening allowing smaller bags to be stored via a smaller door and vice versa.

BMW believes that MINI with its innovative approach will further distinguishes its identity from forthcoming BMW siblings.

The overall look of the Traveller is very much MINI. The dimensions are compact and the front overhang is kept short. In essence the MINI Traveller is very much like a larger Clubman. The internal term “Spacebox” is derived from the spacious interior and also the expansion of glass which gives the MINI Traveller an abundance of light including a larger panoramic roof that allows the interior to look larger than it is. The appearance of the MINI Traveller is very much MINI III – raked headlights and larger grille determines the facial features, whilst at the rear they are experimenting with high level taillights in the C-pillars.

Read More: http://www.bmwblog.com/2011/07/25/rumor-mini-traveller/

MINI Files Patent Design for Paceman

2011-07-21T08:49:00.000-07:00

CarScoop discovered official patent images of the MINI Paceman that were filed a couple of days ago. At this year’s Detroit Auto Show, MINI unveiled their latest and newest concept. Following the same steps as the X5 and X6 models, MINI launched a coupe version of the Countryman under the Paceman name tag.

The Sports Activity Coupe from MINI retains the familiar MINI family front end, but adds its own distinctive design cues. At a first glance, MINI Paceman resembles the last year’s release Countryman. The large headlights with chrome surrounds extend far into the front wings and, together with the strikingly contoured bonnet, emphasize the imposing front end.

Additional intakes in the lower section of the front bumper ensure improved brake ventilation and combine with the study’s deep-set fog lamps to sharpen its sporting edge. The side scuttle has a broad, sturdy-looking design and leads the eye from the A-pillar down towards the front wheel, making it an unmistakable, sporty, wheel-accentuating feature.

The patent images below are in-line with the design cues seen in Detroit, but minor changes will occur when the car goes in production.

Read More: http://www.bmwblog.com/2011/07/21/mini-files-patent-design-for-paceman/

Wisconsin MINI Paceman

The all-new MINI Coupe rolls off the line in Oxford

2011-07-14T11:12:00.000-07:00

Celebrations were under way today at Plant Oxford as the first MINI Coupé rolled off the production line. Andrew Smith MP and Oxford City and County councillors joined plant managing director, Jürgen Hedrich, and members of the plant’s project team to welcome the new model.

The Coupé is the fourth member of the five-strong MINI family to be manufactured at Plant Oxford and will be built on the same production lines as the Hatchback, Clubman and Convertible. A two-seater Roadster will complete the line-up early next year.

Jürgen Hedrich said: “The car has a unique and strong design but still retains MINI’s exciting and distinctive go-kart feel.

“The aim with the MINI Coupé is to give its new owners the most thrilling MINI driving experience possible. Every aspect of the car – from the engines and chassis set up to the weight distribution and aerodynamics – is focused on delivering the optimum dynamic performance”

The Coupé is MINI’s first two-seater, since BMW Group developed the new MINI at Oxford, and has already seen strong interest and a healthy order bank developing.

Andrew Smith, MP for Oxford East, said: “This is a great day for the Oxford plant. To see yet another model join the line-up shows just how strong demand is for MINI in the 90 markets around the world where MINIs are sold.

“This new model, along with BMW Group’s recently-announced £500m investment into UK manufacturing, demonstrates the company’s commitment to a long-term future for Plant Oxford.”
The Coupé will see a range of new features, including the sport stripes on the body work, and the increased boot space – the biggest in the MINI range. The unique spoiler is housed in the bootlid and reduces lift at the rear axle to improve aerodynamic balance and road grip. As with all MINIs, a wide range of accessories and personalisation choices will be available.

Read More: http://www.bmwblog.com/2011/07/09/the-all-new-mini-coupe-rolls-off-the-line-in-oxford/

MINI Wisconsin

MINI USA Releases Pricing on the MINI Coupe

2011-06-30T09:02:00.000-07:00

MINI USA release pricing on the recently unveiled MINI Coupe. The latest addition to the MINI family will go on sale this fall in the US and will start at$22,000 for the Cooper version. The Cooper S sportier model has a base price of $25,300, while the high-end JCW Coupe begins at $31,900.

Along with the pricing for the new Coupe, MINI also publishes the full pricing list for the other US-based vehicles.

Below you can find a summary of all MY2012 changes.

Model/Variant	MY2011	MY2012
MINI Coupe
Cooper	–	$22,000
Cooper S	–	$25,300
John Cooper Works	–	$31,900

MINI Hardtop
Cooper	$20,100	$20,200
Cooper S	$23,700	$23,800
John Cooper Works	$29,800	$30,600*
* John Cooper Works model now includes aero kit as standard for 2012 MY (option in 2011 MY)

MINI Clubman
Cooper	$21,800	$21,900
Cooper S	$25,500	$25,600
John Cooper Works	$32,000	$32,100

MINI Convertible
Cooper	$25,550	$25,650
Cooper S	$28,550	$28,650
John Cooper Works	$35,000	$35,800*
* John Cooper Works model now includes aero kit as standard for 2012 MY (option in 2011 MY)

MINI Countryman
Cooper	$22,350	$22,450
Cooper S	$25,950	$26,050
Cooper S ALL4	$27,650	$27,750

All 2012 pricing includes a $700 Destination and Handling charge (unchanged from 2011).

Equipment / Technology Changes Versus 2011MY Vehicles
In regards to model year updates versus 2011, changes for the MINI Hardtop, Convertible, Clubman and Countryman models will be related to customization.
MINI Yours debuts in 2012MY, which is a more premium and very exclusive series of options from upholstery, interior surfaces and exterior colors that can be purchased as a package or as individual options. MINI Yours interior options include:

An instrument panel covered in a smooth two-tone soft-touch leather that has exposed stitching
Two-tone leather steering wheel
The new MINI Yours 17” alloy wheel – on all Cooper and Cooper S models
MINI Yours pattern “Soda” mirror caps, which have a three-dimensional effect
MINI Yours Soda pattern Lounge Leather, where the unique Soda pattern appears on the sides of the backrests and headrests, and a contrasting black leather stripe runs down the middle of the seats and is offset with a premium piping

UC Davis Study Highlights Results of all Electric MINI E Field Trial

2011-06-14T11:44:00.000-07:00

Press Release: The University of California, Davis and the BMW Group today released the largest publicly available study of electric-car users ever conducted – including over 120 families who drove the fully electric MINI E automobile more than 1 million miles in California, New York and New Jersey from June 2009 to June 2010. The report shows that the participants found the cars to be fun yet practical, easy to drive and recharge, and many said they would buy an electric car in the next five years, according to UC Davis researchers.

As battery electric vehicles (BEVs) enter the commercial marketplace for the first time, the results of this year-long study by the UC Davis Plug-in Hybrid & Electric Vehicle Research Center provide valuable insight into new ways that consumers value BEVs.

Through online and telephone surveys of the participating households, and diaries and in-person interviews with a subset of more than 40 households, the UC Davis MINI E research team examined user behavior, infrastructure use, costs, environmental benefits, and other aspects of electric driving.
Among the key findings of the study are the following:

100% of respondents said BEVs are fun to drive and practical for daily use
Respondents said the MINI E met 90% of their daily driving needs
71% of respondents drove fewer than 40 miles/day; 95% drove fewer than 80
99% of respondents said home charging was easy to use
71% of respondents said they are now more likely to purchase a BEV than they were a year ago while only 9% said they are less likely.
88% of respondents said they are interested in buying a BEV or plug-in hybrid electric vehicle in the next five years
By the end of the lease period, MINI E drivers overwhelmingly thought that the electricity for charging their BEV should come from renewable resources such as solar, wind and hydropower, and were strongly opposed to using coal to generate electricity for their vehicles.

The UC Davis study is part of a whole set of studies being conducted by the BMW Group on electric vehicles, which includes research in China, Germany and the U.K.

Compelling combination of “clean and fun”
UC Davis Plug-in Hybrid & Electric Vehicle Research Center director Tom Turrentine said the study highlights three new and potentially significant ways that drivers value BEVs. First, the MINI E meets drivers’ desire for a vehicle that is both environmentally friendly and fun to drive. Drivers loved the vehicle’s quick acceleration and quiet operation.

“What we heard over and over again in our interviews is how fun it was to drive. That’s in part because it’s a MINI and in part because of the feel of electric drive,” Turrentine said.

Second, drivers find value in using electricity as a fuel and in mastering their individual energy use through efficient driving behaviors. “The combination of limited onboard energy and extreme efficiency make BEVs the premier appliance for people to experience energy use,” says Turrentine. Additionally, the drivers learned to appreciate the car’s powerful regenerative braking function, which returns energy to the battery and allowed them to drive using a single pedal for acceleration and braking.

Third, drivers like to develop their clean driving territory. “Drivers start talking about the MINI E as a special way to explore their region. They of course can go anywhere in their gas car, but they like to talk about where they can go in their MINI E,” Turrentine says.

“Range anxiety” not a big issue for experienced MINI E drivers

While range is often held up as a limitation of BEVs, the MINI E’s range of around 100 miles was acceptable to most drivers most of the time. “We found that households adapted their driving around the capabilities of the vehicle and even explored ways to maximize the use of the MINI E,” said Turrentine.

By studying the MINI E drivers’ usage patterns and need for range, researchers were able to determine that strategic placement of charging stations could allow drivers to reach most of their desired destinations using a BEV that has a range of 90 to 100 miles. Most charging occurred at home, at night, and 99% of respondents said home charging was easy to use.

Read More: http://www.bmwblog.com/2011/06/14/uc-davis-study-highlights-results-of-all-electric-mini-e-field-trial/

DSQUARED² presents exclusive Life Ball MINI 2011

2011-05-26T09:18:00.000-07:00

Munich/Vienna. Dean and Dan Caten, better known as the Canadian designer duo DSQUARED², today unveil their exclusive Life Ball MINI 2011 in Vienna. The twin brothers refashioned their MINI Cooper S to ensure that it would be armed for adventures of all kinds. Among its striking features are the front guard, rally headlamps, tinted side windows with grilles and the spare tyre on the tailgate. But that’s not all: the vehicle’s raised chassis and deep-tread all-terrain tyres instantly evoke a sense of adventure.

When it came to the interior, our two designers similarly scrutinised every detail. If road signs are unclear, there’s a compass to help you head in the right direction, while floormats made of structured aluminium sheeting protect the inside from dirt. The trademark DSQUARED2 maple leaf on the leather head restraints and the side doors rounds off the cabin of this robust MINI with a stylish flour. Dean and Dan are delighted with the result: “Our MINI ‘Red Mudder’ is 100 per cent DSQUARED².” Tonight this one-off will be gliding along the red carpet at the legendary Life Ball.

This year sees carmaker MINI supporting Europe’s biggest AIDS charity event for the 11th time. Each year a one-off MINI is created for the Life Ball, the proceeds of which support projects combating HIV/AIDS. Since 2001 more than half a million euros has been generated by these specially styled Life Ball MINI models on behalf of Aids Life. Gery Keszler, the founder and organiser of the Life Ball, is impressed by this longstanding collaboration: “MINI has been a partner of the Life Ball for 11 years and each year it demonstrates anew its creativity, enthusiasm and passion for this good cause. This year’s Life Ball MINI designed by DSQUARED² provides further persuasive evidence of this.” In previous years, designers such as Agent Provocateur, Donatella Versace, Diesel, Missoni and Gianfranco Ferré obliged with their own designs for a Life Ball MINI.

Read More: http://www.bmwblog.com/2011/05/21/dsquared%C2%B2-presents-exclusive-life-ball-mini-2011/

Shopping Tools * Advertisement Mini No-cost maintenance. Build your own. Find a dealer. Financing options. Visit MINIUSA.COM. 2011 Mini Cooper S Countryman ALL4 - Long-Term Road Test Intro

2011-05-10T14:03:00.000-07:00

Date: May 2011
Months in Fleet: 2 months
Current Mileage: 3863 miles
Average Fuel Economy: 25 mpg
Average Range: 310
Service: $0
Normal Wear: $0
Repair: $0

Although the Mini family has grown quite a bit since the brand’s resurrection, the drivetrain portfolio had remained a one-man band. The hardtop, the convertible, the elongated Clubman, and the upcoming coupe and roadster are limited to front-wheel drive. Introduced for 2011, the Countryman finally changed that, offering all-wheel drive for the first time in the reborn brand’s history.

Our first encounter with the four-door Countryman left us feeling lukewarm, our chief complaints being a somewhat flimsy body structure and a distinct tippiness. As this is the first Mini that is a fully functioning real car (think of the amazement you feel witnessing a family of four emerge from any other Mini), we thought we needed to give it another chance. That, and our long-term Nissan Juke was getting lonely in the funny-looking-hatchbacks-with-turbo-1.6-liter-fours area of the parking lot.

A Mini Someone Might Actually Buy

Also, since this is the first Mini that works as a real car, we decided to option ours as real people might—as opposed to the fantasy-world, mega-bucks creation that was our long-term Mini JCW convertible. The cheapest Countryman starts at $22,350, but we had to try out the all-wheel-driver that, thankfully, isn’t available with the naturally aspirated base engine. So we started with a $27,650 Cooper S ALL4. Our initial reaction to the look of the Countryman was a frown similar to that worn by the car, so we thought $500 for premium paint was worth whatever aesthetic benefit it might impart. Similarly, the interior of the first big Mini we encountered felt a little cheap, so we livened it up with $1000 worth of brown paneling in the doors and black trim pieces elsewhere.

Appearance addressed—as best it could be—we moved to the functional upgrades. Splitting the center accessory rail into two pieces to allow those in the back seat to kick each other in the calves is a no-cost option. Heated cloth seats offer a soft warmth like that of a mother’s bosom, but whereas mothers are priceless (don’t forget Mother’s Day is coming up), these cost $750 as part of the Cold Weather package, or $500 on their own. To make it slightly less easy for spouses to spy on our speed, we filled most of Mini’s humongous center-mounted speedometer with a nav system, which includes Mini Connected, the company’s new smartphone integration system. This shrinks the lancelike needle of the regular Mini speedo to a nubbin that floats around the gauge’s perimeter. At $1750, it was our single most-expensive add-on. Seeking a firm ride but no blood in our urine, we added the $500 sport suspension to our options list—it yields thicker anti-roll bars front and rear, plus stiffer springs and shocks—but left the standard 17-inch wheels in place. Because we hate key fobs, we opted for the $500 Comfort Access keyless entry. Another $500 for automatic climate control and $250 for a center armrest put us at $33,400. Still pretty pricey, but within reason if you accept the idea of Mini as a premium brand, and a far cry from the $40,000-plus required for an example with all the trimmings.

Read More: http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/car/11q2/2011_mini_cooper_s_countryman_all4-long-term_road_test_intro

KISS Joins MINI at the 2011 New York Auto Show

2011-04-26T11:38:00.000-07:00

MINI USA launches the “MINI Rocks the Rivals” competitive test-drive tour in the USA, and as part of the kickoff, MINI has partnered with legendary rock band KISS to raise money for UNICEF to help children in Japan and emergencies around the globe.

KISS band members made the announcement live as four MINI Countryman vehicles with KISS-inspired designs made their debut at the New York Auto Show, and each represents one of the KISS band member’s iconic faces. All four vehicles will be auctioned after being custom painted with the revealed design and signed by all four KISS members. Fans will be able to bid on the vehicles during a special Father’s Day eBay charity auction and proceeds will be donated to UNICEF. The auction will open on May 29th and will run for 10 days.

“Our hearts go out to the people of Japan in this time of great tragedy. We wanted to help and also to provide a real way for the KISS Army to get involved,” said Gene Simmons of KISS. “UNICEF raises money to help children who are still coping with the effects of these disasters, and also supports other very important emergency relief efforts around the world. Join the KISS Army in giving.”

In addition to the vehicle charity auction, MINI USA will sell MINI vehicle wraps of the KISS designs revealed at the New York Auto Show. Vehicle wraps are MINI Motoring Graphics applied by an authorized MINI dealership, like the Union Jack Flag that can be applied to a MINI’s roof, but the vehicle wrap can cover the entire vehicle. MINI USA’s proceeds from those sales will also be donated to UNICEF. The KISS vehicle wraps will be available for order beginning April 21, 2011.
“MINI and its owners have long been dedicated to contributing to philanthropic and charitable efforts,” said Jim McDowell, Vice President – MINI USA. “MINI USA had established a relationship with KISS as we kick off the ‘MINI Rocks the Rivals’ tour in the US, and these fundraising initiatives were an ideal way for us to incorporate a fun charitable component to the campaign with these original pieces of art.”

The “MINI Rocks the Rivals” campaign is a series of competitive test-drive events that will take place across the US from mid-April through early-June. Each of the events gives prospects the chance to test the MINI Countryman against three of its closest competitors. These classic rock-n-roll themed events will feature KISS soundtracks and iconic artwork from the band’s albums. MINI Countryman vehicles adorned with KISS wraps will be on display to promote the auction and charitable contribution. Further details are available on MINIUSA.COM/MINIROCKSTHERIVALS.

Read More: http://www.bmwblog.com/2011/04/22/kiss-joins-mini-at-the-2011-new-york-auto-show/

Meet the MINI Family

2011-04-06T13:17:00.001-07:00

MINI Motorsport prepares for WRC debut

2011-03-18T12:39:00.000-07:00

The MINI Rally Car is currently being tested near Sevilla. MINI WRC Team Engineering Planning Manager Nigel Riddle explains what the final tests for the upcoming MINI WRC Team season debut are all about.

Nigel, the team has three more tests before the first event of the season. What will these tests focus on?

Nigel Riddle: “It is all about continuing to fine tune the car ahead of its first outing under race conditions at the Rally d’Italia Sardegna . When we tested the car for the first time in September, everything was new to us. During the early tests, we were basically just finding out how the car would react to all the different driving situations and how it responds to the changes made by the engineers.

The drivers and technicians must have a feel for the character of the car. Then we carry out the endurance tests, where we find out how long certain parts of the car can hold up to the respective loads and strains they will be subjected to. After that it is a matter of going back fine tuning for specific events. That is the phase we are in now.”

You mentioned the character of the car . Can you please describe it?

Riddle:” In one word – Tough! So far the MINI WRC Test Car has proven to have a very reliable and strong character that has not yet shown any difficult qualities. It has been very reliable and has done a very professional job. We had this impression right from the beginning, and it has been confirmed at all the tests so far.”

Sounds like a perfect car. Does such a thing really exist?

Riddle: “We all strive for perfection, but of course never get there. It goes without saying that the tests always throw up something surprising or something that we did not anticipate. But that is what tests are for: We are testing the car, and the car is testing us. So far we are very happy with what we have achieved. However, only the first outing of the season will really show where we are compared to the opposition.”

Now is the phase for fine tuning. What happens in this period?

Read More: http://www.bmwblog.com/2011/03/17/mini-motorsport-prepares-for-wrc-debut/

2011 Geneva: World Premiere – MINI Rocketman

2011-03-01T13:52:00.000-08:00

The latest concept from MINI, Rocketman, makes its world debut at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show. The urban-oriented vehicle builds atop the idea of the upcoming Megacity vehicle.

The study car brings back the exterior dimensions of the classic MINI, but with an infusion of new ideas and design language. The unique 3+1 seater features three doors and has length just over 3 meters, cater to the urban lifestyle in big cities.

MINI Rocketman makes use of lightweight design principles and an interior geared to maximum driving fun and unbeatable variability. A carbon spaceframe construction, whose striking surface structure is visible at the front end of the car, around its doors and in the interior, forms the basis for a weight-minimizing construction. Wide-opening doors with double-hinge joints and integrated sills facilitate entry into the MINI Rocketman Concept.

The MINI Rocketman Concept measures 3.419 meters (approx. 11 ft. 3 in.) in length, adding just a few extra centimeters to the front and rear of the brand’s founding father born in 1959. The new study is 1.907 meters. In person, the car resembles the classic Mini more than the official photos reveal and the obvious question arises: who can fit in the car? Wide-opening doors with double-hinge joints and integrated sills facilitate entry into the MINI Rocketman Concept, making it easier even for 6″2 tall people to slide in.

Read More: http://www.bmwblog.com/2011/03/01/2011-geneva-world-premiere-mini-rocketman/

Mini Wisconsin

MINI Coupe and Roadster spied together

2011-02-16T09:21:00.000-08:00

The upcoming MINI Coupe and Roadster have been spotted together during an usual testing session. Interesting enough, the two prototypes reveal that a basic model of the two is in works as well. Initially it was believed MINI will offer the two new models as John Cooper Works model, with two additional variants, Cooper S and Cooper SD, but latest spy photos reveal the MINI Coupe with a single tail pipe on the right side – the typical sign of a basic model from MINI. This indicates a smaller diesel or petrol engine with around 120 horsepower.

When the concept launched at Los Angeles Auto Show in 2009, MINI stated that the Coupe Concept is based on the John Cooper Works bodystyle, measuring 146.1 inches overall, 66.1 inches wide and 53.3 inches tall. It was designed as a two seater which brings out the idea of a MINI roadster vehicle rather than a coupe. Due to its rear-end design line, the MINI Coupe Concept lacks trunk space, the only storage space is behind the seats. The cargo space measures about 8.8 cubic feet and in the production model, it will be accessible through the a big hatch.

MINI Coupe Concept is based on the John Cooper Works bodystyle, measures 146.1 inches overall, 66.1 inches wide and 53.3 inches tall. It was designed as a two seater which brings out the idea of a MINI roadster vehicle rather than a coupe. Due to its rear-end design line, the MINI Coupe Concept lacks trunk space, the only storage space is behind the seats. The cargo space measures about 8.8 cubic feet and in the production model, it will be accessible through the a big hatch.

The MINI Roadster Concept is a two seater vehicle sporting a tight-fitting soft roof and innovative rear-end design. It is a new model that opens up new perspectives both in the context of the brand and in the segment of compact roadsters. The new two-seater measures 3,714 millimeters (146.2″) in length and 1,683 millimeters (66.3″) in width. Height of the car is 1,356 millimeters or 53.4″.

Read More: http://www.bmwblog.com/2011/02/13/mini-coupe-and-roadster-spied-together/

International Mini Cooper of Milwaukee has a collision center serving the Wisconsin area

2011-01-27T08:28:00.000-08:00

We work with all types of insurance, loaner cars are available. Call for more details.

The Collision Center
2230 East Moreland Blvd. (Hwy 18)
Waukesha, WI 53186
Phone: 262-821-5000
Fax: 262-786-7954

Manager: Steve Willer

Body Shop Hours:
Monday-Friday from 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed

Service Specials West Allis

International MINI of Milwaukee offers great Service and Parts Specials

2011-01-27T08:26:00.000-08:00

Ring in the New Year with Service Specials from International MINI of Milwaukee!

Service Specials Milwaukee

BMW's MINI E takes on Tesla Roadster - Race!

2011-01-20T08:09:00.000-08:00

Across the pond (that's the Atlantic Ocean to us Yanks), journalist Brian Milligan’s drive from London to Edinburgh, a journey of roughly 484 miles. However, he drove in a MINI E which, with a range of only 100 miles on a single charge and needs roughly ten hours to recharge, turned the trip from trivial to tricky.

Milligan was forced to stop at least once a day over the four-day span to recharge. MINI has said the cars have roughly 100 miles of range, but driving habits, traffic conditions, and ambient temperatures can have an effect on its range, and potentially whittle that figure down to 60 miles. Further, Milligan was forced to search for one of the few charging stations sprinkled throughout England, and wait for hours before continuing his drive.

After Milligan published his frustrations on both his blog and Twitter feed, EV advocates started to cry foul. British EV fan David Peilow was so incensed, he arranged a publicity stunt with Tesla Motors to counter the BBC’s story. Borrowing a new Roadster Sport and leaving after Milligan had a two-day lead, Peilow set out to beat the BBC to Edinburgh.

Remarkably, he did just that. The Roadster, equipped with a lithium-ion battery pack offering roughly 245 miles of range (and, importantly, a 3.5-hour recharge time on a 240-volt charger), managed to make the trek in a single day. Pielow needed to stop only twice, and, having left in the wee hours of the morning, managed to sneak into Edinburgh hours before Milligan did.

The BBC is crying foul, noting the sporty Roadster’s range is nearly twice that of the “practical” MINI E, but Pielow did work towards quashing a stereotype. Many EVs do have a limited range and charging points are occasionally few and far between, but that isn’t necessarily the case in every scenario.

Read More: http://blogs.automotive.com/6707021/exotic-cars/bmws-mini-e-takes-on-tesla-roadster-race/index.html

Wisconsin Mini

CAPSULE REVIEW: 2010 MINI Cooper

2010-12-27T13:40:00.000-08:00

Cars that get good gas mileage are always dull behind the wheel, right? Not so, says the Mini Cooper. Born from BMW in 2001, the Mini has been hugely successful since its introduction. Growing into a second generation in 2007 the Mini continues to evolve and delight owners with its' cute good look, razor sharp handling, not at all unimpressive performance, and its respectable fuel economy. Add to that the Mini is the most customizable car in its class and you have the recipe for a vehicle which will continue to sell well for years to come. Most options that come in packages can also be ordered individually, so the possibilities for personalization abound. The mini is available as either a hatchback or a convertible, and three trim levels.

The standard Mini is powered by a 118 HP 1.6 liter four cylinder engine. A six speed manual is standard with a six speed automatic transmission being offered as an option. The S model uses the same drivetrain but adds a turbocharger to the engine, bringing power up the 172 HP. A John Cooper Works edition does even better bringing the Turbo four's power up to 208 HP.

Read More: http://www.automobilemag.com/capsule_review/mini/cooper/2010/capsule_review_2010_mini_cooper/index.html

Wisconsin MINI

Fifth Gear test drives the Mini Countryman

2010-12-27T13:37:00.000-08:00

The British TV Show Fifth Gear and its host Vicki Butler-Henderson deliver a quite fun review of the new MINI Countryman, one would say, in a typical MINI way. The model tested is the MINI Cooper S Countryman ALL4 model boasting the most efficient power unit worldwide, the four-cylinder 1.6 liter with its 184 horsepower.

Mrs. Butler is being both critical and appreciative of the Countryman, praising the comfortable single seats in the back, along with its practicality and extended storage space.

The car is being taken off-road also and misses a 45 degree incline, mostly because being underpowered.

In the US, MINI Countryman’s base price starts at $25,250, excluding a $700 destination charge. A well-equipped Cooper S Countryman comes just under $30,000 mark.

Read More: http://www.bmwblog.com/2010/12/23/fifth-gear-test-drives-the-mini-countryman/

MINI Wisconsin

Mini concept previews 2-door Countryman

2010-12-21T13:07:00.000-08:00

Mini will introduce a two-door concept crossover called the Paceman at the Detroit Auto Show next month.

The Paceman uses the same platform and has the same dimensions as the Countryman crossover, Mini's first four-door that goes on sale early next year. The concept also has a larger tailgate than the Countryman.

Mini said in a release the car has not been approved for production but "Paceman could form yet another building block in the development of the Mini brand."

The concept has a familiar Mini front end with large headlights surrounded by chrome and the same radiator grill as the Cooper S Countryman crossover. But it has what Mini calls a "coupe tail" to give it an athletic appearance.

"In contrast to the more vertical design of the Mini Countryman, we've given the Mini Paceman concept a horizontal emphasis and accentuated the width of the car more to underline the powerful appearance of the study," Marcus Syring, head of Mini exterior design, said in a statement.

Under the hood, the Paceman has Mini's performance-oriented John Cooper Works 1.-6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 211 horsepower.

Read more: http://www.autonews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20101220/OEM03/101219837/1115#ixzz18maBtfuU

Wisconsin MINI

Detroit auto show preview: Mini Paceman concept

2010-12-21T12:55:00.000-08:00

Mini is looking to maximize the brand with a new concept called the Paceman, which almost sounds like the 1980’s video game “Pac-Man.” The Mini is scheduled for its global reveal at the upcoming Detroit Auto Show in January. Like the BMW X6 coupe, but for Mini, the Paceman adds a new category called a Sports Activity Coupe. It is similar in size to the upcoming Countryman small SUV, but with two doors instead of four and seating for four.

The Paceman will be powered by the John Cooper Works turbocharged. 1.6-liter, four-cylinder engine producing 211 hp and mated to the same all-wheel-drive system in the Countryman.

The coupe will also have the center rail between the seats like that in the Countryman that allows the riders to connect various storage and media devices configured to their needs.

Read More: http://blogs.consumerreports.org/cars/2010/12/detroit-auto-show-preview-mini-paceman-concept.html

Mini Wisconsin

BMW and MINI Awarded to Ward's List of 10 Best Engines for 2011

2010-12-14T13:23:00.000-08:00

Now in its 17th year, the Ward’s 10 Best Engines competition is designed to recognize powertrains that set new benchmarks in their respective vehicle segments. For the third time in a row, BMW engines are ranked in the top 10.

From 2007 through 2009, BMW’s N54 twin-turbo engine was ranked among the best engines in the automotive industry. This year, the N54 leaves the stage and allows the new N55 twin-scroll turbocharged powerplant to take its first win in the Wards Auto Top 10 Engines.

According to Wards, their editors spent October and November driving the vehicles in their routine daily commutes around metro Detroit and scored each engine based on power, technology, observed fuel economy and noise, vibration harshness.

Another engine that powers a BMW Group brand, MINI, takes another spot in this top 10. The 1.6L turbocharged direct-injection I-4 powers the MINI Cooper S and is assembled for BMW by PSA Peugeot Citroen.

Let’s have a look at the engines’ review by Ward.

Read More: http://www.bmwblog.com/2010/12/08/wards-auto-top-10-engines-bmw-n55-twin-scroll-engine/

Wisconsin MINI

New photos & information for the X-Raid MINI Countryman ALL4 Racing

2010-12-14T13:14:00.000-08:00

X-Raid MINI Countryman – twin-turbo diesel engine developing 315 PS (232 kW) and 710 Nm of torque

MONSTER ENERGY X-RAID TEAM UNVEILS MINI ALL4 RACING FOR WORLD DEBUT ON GRUELLING 2011 DAKAR RALLY IN SOUTH AMERICA

New MINI All4 Racing unveiled after 90 days from start of project. Chicherit and Périn set to drive new MINI All4 Racing. Magna-Steyr, Heggemann and Faster boost MINI project. TÜV Rheinland to support Monster Energy X-raid Team

TREBUR (Germany) – The X-raid Team unveiled an exciting new cross-country motor sport programme to run and develop the MINI All4 Racing in international competition.

The project was first discussed in the summer of 2009 and the competitive debut of the new MINI All4 Racing will be in the hands of the French rally crew of Guerlain Chicherit and co-driver Michel Périn in January’s 33rd Personal Dakar Argentina-Chile. The event starts in Buenos Aires on New Year’s Day and finishes in the Argentine capital on Sunday, January 16th, 2011.

The new MINI All4 Racing will form part of X-raid’s seven-car Dakar team – the largest ever entered by a team in the 33-year history of the world’s most famous off-road rally – and the third of three vehicles running on the event under the Monster Energy X-raid Team banner.

X-raid team director Sven Quandt began looking at the feasibility of the project in 2009 and held initial discussions with automotive engineering and manufacturing company Magna Steyr and BMW to see whether the new model was a realistic replacement for the BMW/MINI X3 CC – which has earned the Trebur-based team three successive FIA World Cup for Cross-Country Rally titles since 2008.

Read More: http://www.bmwblog.com/2010/12/10/new-photos-information-for-the-x-raid-mini-countryman-all4-racing/

Wisconsin MINI

Autoblog First Drive: 2011 MINI Cooper S

2010-12-08T11:46:00.000-08:00

Autoblog takes the new 2011 MINI Cooper S for a test drive and outlines some of the new changes and driving experience brought out by the facelifted MINI.

“The most obvious place to begin charting the changes is the exterior. Up front you’ll find restyled bumper fascias and larger fog lights, while optional black headlight housings are now available with adaptive Xenon lamps.

The electric Mini E’s hood has been cribbed and installed on base Coopers, while the turbocharged S models still have their hood scoops and gain functional brake cooling ducts. At the rear are tweaked taillamp assemblies with LED fog lights along with a redesigned rear bumper housing the reverse lights.

The final notable tidbit is the availability of a new hue: British Racing Green II. Finally, a color that actually looks like the classic BRG we all know and love. It’s about time, as the previous dark green, while perfectly acceptable, simply wasn’t “British Racing Green.” While that’s a color we’re excited about, perhaps now would be a good time to point out the, ahem, interesting combo of the vehicle in our photos. While there’s nothing at all wrong with the new Spice Orange hue for 2011 or the Classic Green Lounge Leather (Mutant Ninja Turtle Green, as we took to calling it) interior… let’s just say the two should probably never be combined on the same vehicle.

We’re happy to report the 2011 Mini Cooper drives almost exactly like the 2010 Mini Cooper – no real surprise considering the limit of the changes. A boost in horsepower on standard models from 118 to 121 horsepower is nominal, but the Cooper S gets a bump to 181 ponies (up from 172), which can be felt when accelerating up a hill or on-ramp. Electronic power steering has allowed the crafty German engineers to add anti torque- and anti bump-steer to the Cooper’s repertoire, and the modifications were obvious when compared to last year’s model. The new suspension tricks were particularly transparent under hard acceleration and even more pronounced when matting the throttle on the turbocharged model, with its ‘Overboost’ function delivering up to 192 lb-ft of torque from 1,700 rpm onwards.

Read More: http://www.bmwblog.com/2010/12/06/autoblog-first-drive-2011-mini-cooper-s/

Mini Wisconsin

Spy Photos: 2011 MINI Cooper Countryman S Diesel

2010-11-22T13:22:00.000-08:00

MotorAuthority publishes the first spy photos of the upcoming MINI Cooper Countryman S Diesel. Sporting no camouflage, the Countryman S Diesel goes through the final testing stages before its launch in early 2011.

Unfortunately for the US buyers, at the moment, the Countryman S Diesel remains an European affair, similar to the Cooper SD vehicle that comes out next year as well.

At a first glance, there seem to be no design changes from the petrol version. The car will most likely carry the Cooper SD badge and while not confirmed, reports mention the power sitting somewhere between 140 and 150 horsepower from a four-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine. Torque is said to be around 200 lb-ft.

Read More: http://www.bmwblog.com/2010/11/20/spy-photos-2011-mini-cooper-countryman-s-diesel/

Mini Dealers

2011 MINI Cooper Most Fuel Efficient Car In Its Class

2010-11-16T08:52:00.000-08:00

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency releases their 2011 Fuel Economy Guide. The new report and figures show the MINI Cooper as being of the most-efficient cars in its class.

The 2011 MINI Cooper is rated at 29/37 mpg on combined cycle. For 2011, the MINI Cooper received a power upgrade. The Cooper’s normally aspirated 1.6-liter I-4 now produces 121 horsepower and 114 pound-feet of torque.

The turbocharged Cooper S and Clubman S gain Vanos variable valve-timing for the intake valves, and a bonus 4 hp brings the total to 181. John Cooper Works variants remain at 208 hp. All fuel economy numbers for these vehicles are competitive within their segment.

For2011, MINI is raising prices from $600 to $750. The least expensive Mini for 2011, the Cooper hardtop, has finally broken through the $20,000 price point, climbing to $20,100 from $19,500 last year. Prices include a $700 shipping charge.

The 2011 Mini Cooper Convertible now starts at $25,550, while the 2011 Cooper Clubman is priced from $21,800.

Read More: http://www.bmwblog.com/2010/11/13/2011-mini-cooper-most-fuel-efficient-car-in-its-class/

MINI Wisconsin

Video: Prodrive MINI Countryman Update – Spain Shakedown

2010-11-16T08:48:00.000-08:00

Prodrive MINI Countryman WRC continues its testing phase this time in the beautiful Spain. Just recently, the new MINI Countryman World Rally Car has successfully completed its shakedown phase at Prodrive’s private proving ground in Warwickshire, and has already moved onto the next testing phase.

MINI Countryman WRC, which is being developed in cooperation with Prodrive is based off the Countryman production model. The powerful heart of the racing car is a 1.6-liter, four-cylinder Di turbo-charged engine from BMW Motorsport. The power transmission takes place via an Xtrac 6-speed, sequential gearbox.

For its outings on the rally stages, the MINI Countryman chassis has been fitted with a roll cage developed by Prodrive, which exceeds the strict safety.

Read More: http://www.bmwblog.com/2010/11/03/video-prodrive-mini-countryman-update-spain-shakedown/

Mini Dealers

USA Today: BMW's Mini E drivers lead the electric-car wave

2010-10-28T14:14:00.000-07:00

Todd Crook, a 42-year-old television advertising producer from California is convinced. So is Tom Mologhney, a 43-year-old New Jersey restauranteur. They're sold on the Mini E, BMW's first electric car to be put in the hands of consumers in the U.S.

For 15 months, they've been part of a select group of drivers in New York, New Jersey and California who have driven the fully-electric Mini E as their main commuting vehicle. And, as Laura Bruno from the Daily Record in Morris County, N.J., reports, these drivers could be in the forefront of showing their fellow motorists that electric vehicles are worth a try. She writes:

Tom Moloughney has been test driving a Mini Cooper E, an all electric car, his home has solar panels on the roof, which powers his home and car.

Now, with other electric cars poised to enter the market — the Chevrolet Volt and Nissan Leaf in November and December, respectively — the Mini E drivers are vocal advocates for battery-powered vehicles.

"I'm hooked," says Crook.

When BMW set out to test the Mini E, a lithium-ion battery powered two-seater, the goal was to see if an electric car could withstand the real-life commuting needs of urban settings, says Mini E spokesman Dave Buchko.

Mini E feedback would inform BMW's work on the four-seat Active E, which is planned for a summer 2011 release, and the Megacity planned to premier in 2013.

BMW found the Mini E 100-mile battery range was suited to daily commutes, Buchko says. "We've gained valuable insight, insight that we are putting into play with our other vehicles," Buchko says.

The drivers say they found a car they don't want to give up.

"It's the car of choice, the one everyone in the family fights over," says film art director Jim Dow, 67, of Newport Beach, Calif. Dow has a BMW X3 and a Ford F250 in addition to the Mini E, but he says he, his wife and a son all vie to drive the electric car.

"The first six months I didn't touch the other cars," Dow says. "The truck sat for six months before I went to use it and then the battery was dead."

Read More: http://content.usatoday.com/communities/driveon/post/2010/10/bmws-mini-e-drivers-lead-the-electric-car-wave/1

Mini Wisconsin

Pricing: 2011 Mini Countryman starts at $22,350

2010-10-15T08:41:00.000-07:00

Mini has announced pricing for the upcoming Countryman, a four-door, four-seat model that is the largest, tallest, and roomiest Mini yet. Due in showrooms early next year, base models will start at $22,350, or $500 more than the Mini Clubman, and Mini says a well-equipped model with AWD will start at less than $30,000.

In addition to being larger, the Countryman has a more rugged, SUV-like appearance than other Mini models, and it will be available with all-wheel drive. The Countryman is targeted at buyers fond of the brand's distinctive look and style, but who are in need of more room and foul weather capability. With a wheelbase six inches longer than other Mini models, the back seat is suitable for adults, and rear seats fold down for more cargo room.

Like other Minis, Cooper and Cooper S models will be offered, powered by the same regularly aspirated or turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engines producing 118 hp and 172 hp. Buyers can choose from six-speed manual or automatic transmissions.

Read More: http://blogs.consumerreports.org/cars/2010/10/pricing-2011-mini-countryman-starts-at-22350.html

MINI Wisconsin

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2011 MINI Cooper S Countryman Priced at $25,250

2010-10-15T08:37:00.000-07:00

MINI USA announces the pricing for the new MINI Cooper S Countryman. Base price starts at $25,250, excluding a $700 destination charge. A well-equipped Cooper S Countryman comes just under $30,000 mark.

MINI enters the US market with a choice of two engines, one of them the rev-happy 1.6-liter four-cylinder gasoline and the second found in the the Cooper S model adds a twin-scroll turbocharger and direct fuel injection with a total of 181-horsepower.

It also features fully-variable valve management offering the best balance of engine power and fuel consumption in its class. And as an alternative to the standard six-speed manual gearbox, both Cooper and Cooper S models are also available with a six-speed automatic transmission complete with manual control priced at $1,250.

The Cooper S Countryman ALL4 starts at $26,950.
The Countryman has five feature packages, including a Convenience Package and two Sport packages.
Here is a list of some of the options available for the MINI Countryman:

Premium Package (dual-panel panoramic sunroof, automatic climate control, Harman Kardon stereo): $1,250
Sport Package (18-inch wheels, rear spoiler, sport seats, fog lights, dynamic traction control and hood stripes): $1,000-$1,250
Convenience Package (garage door opener, one-touch keyless entry, auto-dimming rearview mirror, rain-sensing wipers and Bluetooth connectivity): $1,250
Cold Weather Package (power-folding heated mirrors, heated washer jets and heated front seats): $750
MINI Connected: $1,000
Navigation: $1,750

2010 Paris Motor Show: Electric smart Escooter Concept

2010-09-29T13:11:00.000-07:00

MINI posted some more details on the Escooter Concept, an electric scooter which the automaker plans to debut at the upcoming Paris Motor Show.

"The Escooter shows what an integrated, open approach we have to the subject of urban mobility," says Smart chief Dr. Annette Winkler in a prepared statement. "[It offers] even more driving fun in the city, even more adaptability to the respective living environment, even more flexibility -- not least because it offers the possibility to be integrated in our car2go concept."

Apart from the Smart emblems, the Escooter bears little resemblance to the ForTwo we've come to know over the past few decades. The two-wheeler has a sharp, angular presence up front, which segues into a curvaceous rump, marked by a large, Jell-O mold-like taillamp. The only visual connection to Smart's four-wheeled offerings are the body panels. In theory, they can quickly be interchanged, allowing owners to personalize the Escooter at a moment's notice. All lighting, including the headlamp, turn signals, marker lamps, and taillamp, is provided by LEDs.

Beneath the skin lies a frame constructed from both steel and aluminum that supports single swingarm suspension for both the front and rear wheels. Since space is at a premium, the Escooter makes use of a 4-kW (5.4-horsepower) brushless electric motor mounted within the rear hub. That provides enough room for both the 48-volt lithium ion battery pack, which offers roughly 62 miles of range, and its on-board charger. Although solar cells mounted in the nose and windscreen can help recharge the battery pack, the Escooter can be recharged in 3-5 hours by plugging it into what Smart calls "household current," which likely translates into anything between 120- to 240-volt power.

The Escooter's technology, however, extends far beyond the battery. Smart fitted the concept with a linked front and rear braking system (one lever applies both brakes) with ABS, an airbag, and -- an important for inexperienced cyclists -- blind-spot detection. All instrumentation is provided by an iPhone mounted within the handlebars, which also serves as both the navigation system and the ignition key itself. A fold-out seat quickly transforms the Escooter into a two-passenger vehicle; deploying the extra saddle also triggers a pair of footposts to unfold from the body.

Smart has yet to declare the Escooter ready for production, but buzz within Daimler suggests the brand is seriously studying consumer reaction to the idea. If it flies, expect a production-ready version to hit (European) streets in the next few years.

Market launch of the new MINI family and MINI Countryman on 18 September 2010

2010-09-29T12:58:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow, MINI launches to market the most wide-ranging line-up since its revamp in 2011. Along with the updated versions of the MINI, Clubman and Convertible, the Oxford-based company also launches the Countryman, company’s crossover that will boost the sales.

In preparation for the launch, BMW releases some comprehensive information on the changes coming in the 2011 models.

“With the presentation of the latest and most wide-ranging model line-up since its relaunch in 2001, the MINI brand is beginning a new chapter in its successful history as the originator of the premium small car segment. The market introduction of the new MINI family will be joined on 18 September 2010 by the sales launch of the brand’s fourth model, the MINI Countryman. The updated versions of the MINI, MINI Clubman and MINI Convertible cut a more stylish figure than ever, boast unsurpassed agility and achieve even higher levels of efficiency than before. With its four doors and large tailgate, extra space and – as an option – all-wheel drive, the MINI Countryman delivers totally new ways of experiencing the driving fun typical of the brand.

All of which takes the diversity of the MINI model range into a new dimension. For example, the MINI can now be ordered with a choice of five petrol and two diesel engines developing between 55 kW/75 hp and 155 kW/211 hp. Three petrol units and two diesel variants are available for the MINI Countryman, and two of the engines can also be combined with the MINI ALL4 all-wheel-drive system. Meanwhile, the further extended range of optional extras and the selection of exterior paint finishes, interior colours, upholstery variants, trim elements and Colour Lines – which allow every MINI to become a personally configured one-off – set new standards in the segment once again.

Read More: http://www.bmwblog.com/2010/09/18/market-launch-of-the-new-mini-family-and-mini-countryman-on-18-september-2010/

Mini Wisconsin

Rumor: MINI-i MegaCity Vehicle to debut in 2012

2010-08-31T13:56:00.000-07:00

Over a year ago, a webcam photo leaked on the interwebs gave us a preview at the next generation MINI car city vehicles set to debut in 2012. The project falls under the name MINI-i and it is part of BMW’s Project i program. The MINI-i will be easily recognizable as a MINI, despite BMW’s intention to split the brand with the smaller “MegaCity” cars and then the Austrian built “Urban Adventure” vehicles which will be the MINI-X and the SpaceBox project.

The somewhat, sometimes reliable UK magazine AutoExpress publishes a story on the MINI-i in a John Cooper Works variant. The car is said to be just over three meters long, with seating for four and with….no name yet.

Last year, we mentioned that the BMW Motorrad Division will be involved in the development of three cylinder engines for BMW and MINI vehicles. According to the same magazine, the new MINI-i will make use of a new 1.5 liter 3 cylinder turbocharged engine.

Read More: http://www.bmwblog.com/2010/08/23/rumor-mini-i-megacity-vehicle-to-debut-in-2012/

Mini Dealers

Lessons learned after 150,000 kilometers with the MINI E pilot

2010-08-19T11:38:00.000-07:00

After a year of gathering field experience with the MINI E pilot in Germany, it is time for an interim conclusion.

With 15 electrically driven MINI vehicles, the Munich field test was the smallest one in BMWs ongoing usability tests which involve some 600 cars worldwide. The trial was restricted to local residents with a private parking space—and who were willing to pay 400 Euros a month ($517 USD).

15 MINI E cars have been roaming the streets of Munich and neighboring rural districts with E.ON power until July 2010. E.ON’s part in the demonstration project with BMW involved building a network of public charging stations, while ensuring that the test participants were able to recharge their cars both at home and close to work.

Read More: http://www.bmwblog.com/2010/08/19/lessons-learned-after-150000-kilometers-with-the-mini-e-pilot/

Wisconsin Mini

MINI reveals Countryman print ads

2010-08-19T11:24:00.000-07:00

Along with the online video campaign, MINI also brings out the Countryman print ads. As expected, the ads deliver concise messages, vertical and easy to remember.

The Countryman represents MINI’s latest bet in the crossover segment and this is the first MINI with four doors and a large tailgate as well as a variable interior offering space for up to four occupants.

At the same time the MINI Countryman is the brand’s first model measuring more than four meters (157 inches) in length and available as an option with ALL4 all-wheel drive.

The market launch of the new MINI Countryman will be 18 September 2010.

Read More: http://www.bmwblog.com/2010/08/17/mini-reveals-countryman-print-ads/

MINI Countryman Wisconsin

Autoblog drives the 2011 MINI Countryman

2010-08-19T11:19:00.000-07:00

Autoblog gives us one of the first reviews of the new 2011 MINI Countryman. According to MINI, the Countryman is “a new dimension” and “genuine crossover that bridges the gap between the classic concept of the MINI and a modern Sports Activity Vehicle”, and the folks at Autoblog tend to agree with the automaker.

This is the first MINI with four doors and a large tailgate as well as a variable interior offering space for up to four occupants. The market launch of the new MINI Countryman will be 18 September 2010.

In the mean time, let’s have a look at their review:

“In an effort to show Mini owners and enthusiasts that the Countryman is indeed worthy of a Cooper badge, the automaker brought a few of the new crossovers out on its 2010 Mini Takes The States cross-country road rally. Mini is wholly confident that people will be impressed with what the Countryman has to offer, not only with functionality, but with driving dynamics, as well. We saddled up to find out for ourselves.

Read More: http://www.bmwblog.com/2010/08/13/autoblog-drives-the-2011-mini-countryman/

Mini Cooper Wisconsin

International Autos Group

2010-08-19T11:12:00.000-07:00

International Autos has been serving Wisconsin areas for numerous years and is now proud to offer service to Illinois as well. We have become a leader in sales, service and customer satisfaction. Our experienced sales staff specializes in New and Pre-driven Mercedes Benz, Audi, Infiniti, Jaguar, Land Rover, Maserati, Mini, Porsche, Subaru and Volvo cars and trucks. We strive to provide the best customer satisfaction and assure you that if you allow us a chance to earn your business you will be satisfied with both the sale and the service we offer. Our business philosophy has always been putting our customers first and our track record of continued repeat business shows that philosophy works. Whether you choose a New or Pre-driven Mercedes Benz, Audi, Infiniti, Jaguar, Land Rover, Maserati, Mini, Porsche, Subaru or Volvo vehicle you will enjoy the hassle free purchasing experience thousands of our customers have already benefited from.

International Autos Group

Ultimate Photo Gallery: 2011 MINI family

2010-08-13T11:48:00.000-07:00

Earlier this month, MINI unveiled their refreshed lineup for 2011. The MINI, MINI Clubman and MINI Convertible went through a mild facelift, including additional engine variants. The next model to join the MINI family is the Countryman crossover which will debut this fall.
Along with all the changes for 2011 outlined below, MINI also published an extensive photo gallery of all their models.
Press Release:
The MINI model family is sharpening up its act in terms of design, driving fun, efficiency and individuality. With the MINI, MINI Clubman and MINI Convertible, the only maker of independently developed premium small cars will continue to boast both the most varied and most appealing model range in the segment. Nine years after its relaunch, the inimitable essence of MINI can be seen both in the new MINI family and in the imminent arrival of the next model designed exclusively for the brand: the MINI Countryman. The new MINI family, the MINI Countryman and the further additions to the range scheduled to arrive in the near future will see MINI strengthen its position as the original premium small car maker.
Mini Wisconsin

Ultimate Photo Gallery: 2011 MINI Countryman

2010-08-13T11:46:00.000-07:00

In March 2010, MINI has entered a new era at the Geneva Motor Show with their first crossover vehicle: MINI Countryman. According to BMW, the Countryman is “a new dimension” and “genuine crossover that bridges the gap between the classic concept of the MINI and a modern Sports Activity Vehicle.”
This is the first MINI with four doors and a large tailgate as well as a variable interior offering space for up to four occupants. At the same time the MINI Countryman is the brand’s first model measuring more than four meters (157 inches) in length and available as an option with ALL4 all-wheel drive.
Right from the start, the car stands out through its unique look – it is powerful, robust and versatile in all its features and appearance. Various design elements and proportions typical of the brand also stand out from the very beginning, enabling the fourth model in the MINI range to bridge the gap between the classic concept of the MINI and a modern Sports Activity Vehicle.
Mini Clubman Wisconsin

Autoblog drives the 2011 MINI Countryman

2010-08-13T11:40:00.000-07:00

Autoblog gives us one of the first reviews of the new 2011 MINI Countryman. According to MINI, the Countryman is “a new dimension” and “genuine crossover that bridges the gap between the classic concept of the MINI and a modern Sports Activity Vehicle”, and the folks at Autoblog tend to agree with the automaker.
This is the first MINI with four doors and a large tailgate as well as a variable interior offering space for up to four occupants. The market launch of the new MINI Countryman will be 18 September 2010.
In the mean time, let’s have a look at their review:
“In an effort to show Mini owners and enthusiasts that the Countryman is indeed worthy of a Cooper badge, the automaker brought a few of the new crossovers out on its 2010 Mini Takes The States cross-country road rally. Mini is wholly confident that people will be impressed with what the Countryman has to offer, not only with functionality, but with driving dynamics, as well. We saddled up to find out for ourselves.
Mini Cooper Wisconsin

2010 MINI Cooper Clubman S

2010-06-29T13:37:00.000-07:00

2010 MINI Cooper Clubman S

200551
Pepper White Exterior, Black Interior, 2DR
MSRP $28,600

Mini Clubman Wisconsin

2010 MINI Cooper Convertible S

2010-06-29T13:35:00.000-07:00

2010 MINI Cooper Convertible S

200704
Silver Exterior, Black Interior, Convertible
MSRP $28,600

Mini Milwaukee

2010 MINI Cooper Convertible S

2010-06-29T13:31:00.000-07:00

2010 MINI Cooper Convertible S

201131
Midnight Black Metallic Exterior, Convertible
Call for Price

Milwaukee Mini

2010 MINI Cooper Hardtop

2010-06-29T13:27:00.000-07:00

2010 MINI Cooper Hardtop

201075
Chili Red Exterior, Black Interior, 2DR
MSRP $23,750

Wisconsin Mini

2010 MINI Cooper Hardtop

2010-06-29T13:22:00.000-07:00

2010 MINI Cooper Hardtop

201074
Pepper White Exterior, Toffee Interior, 2DR
MSRP $26,000

Mini Wisconsin