Press Release
Page 1: Short Version
Page 2: Innovative Drive Technology
Page 3: Chassis & Suspension
Page 4: Safety Equipment
Both engine versions of the new MINI come as standard with a six-speed manual gearbox. The optional automatic transmission available in each case also features six speeds controlled by five clutches to provide an absolutely smooth and consistent gearshift virtually without the slightest interruption of traction and pulling power.
A further feature of the automatic transmission required for setting off smoothly and easily is the torque converter, with the converter clutch being engaged immediately after the car has started to move in order to combine superior comfort with a sporting, fast and dynamic gearshift.
Activating the sports switch, the driver is able to enhance the highly dynamic qualities of the car to an even higher standard by shifting gears even faster in this special Sports Mode. A further benefit is that the driver is now able to shift gears manually by means of paddles on the steering wheel, like in Formula 1. In other words, the driver is not required to take his hands off the steering wheel when shifting gears and is able to fully concentrate on the process of controlling his car especially in an extreme situation.
Limited-slip differential for maximum traction.
The six-speed manual gearbox comes in two different configurations: In the MINI Cooper S the two first gears are synchronised by means of a double-cone, while the MINI Cooper features carbon friction plates.
As an option the MINI Cooper S is also available with a mechanical limited-slip differential referred to as the Super Differential preventing the drive wheels from spinning by feeding engine power to the wheel with better traction.
The gear wheels themselves have helical gearing on both versions, and it almost goes without saying that all gears – including reverse – feature full synchromesh.
This configuration with six transmission options significantly enhances the agile and sporting character of the new MINI, with the individual gear increments perfectly matched to the power and performance of the engines. The reduction of gearshift forces, finally, ensures even greater efficiency in changing gears.
Go-Kart Feeling in a new Dimension.
The Chassis and Suspension of the new MINI.
From the start, the new MINI naturally offers that very special go-kart feeling which has characterised the brand for more than 40 years. Front-wheel drive, a low centre of gravity, long wheelbase, wide track, short overhangs front and rear, a stiff bodyshell, and firm suspension – these are the ingredients that give the new MINI its superior driving behaviour. “We have given the new MINI a particularly agile set-up on the suspension”, states Uwe Gaedicke, the Driving Dynamics Project Manager for MINI. “And the result is an experience in driving pleasure quite unique in this class.”
Electromechanical power steering with sports switch.
The outstanding agility and nimbleness of the MINI is largely attributable to the new EPAS Electric Power Assisted Steering offering the driver a very natural feeling at the wheel and ensuring direct contact with the road.
Power assistance related to road speed ensures low steering forces for example when parking and a direct response at high speeds on the Autobahn or other fast roads. This serves to further enhance the car’s high standard of active safety, particularly at medium and high speeds.
The new EPAS power steering not only reduces fuel consumption by approximately 0.1 litres/100 kilometres, but also offers the driver two different set-up control maps. The normal map maintains a smooth balance of steering characteristics throughout the car’s entire speed range, while the power steering becomes even more sporting and “go-kart-like” as soon as the driver presses the sports button, in the process also modifying the electronic gas pedal control map for a more spontaneous response also from the accelerator.
The foundation for the MINI’s famous go-kart feeling and, in particular, for the agility of the new MINI is set by the kinematic and elastokinematic configuration of the front and rear axles.
The front axle is based on the McPherson spring strut principle, interaction of axle geometry and the output drive shafts of equal-length both left and right ensuring optimum traction without any adverse effects from the drivetrain.
The central-arm rear axle featured on the new MINI is quite unique in the segment of front-wheel-drive compact cars. Through their sophisticated kinematics alone, the wheels maintain optimum grip on the ground and guarantee agile handling and driving pleasure in all situations, regardless of road conditions and driving manoeuvres. Appropriate weight reduction including longitudinal arms made of aluminium serves furthermore to reduce weight on the rear axle by approximately 9 kg or 20 lb.
Free choice of two different suspension set-ups.
The new generation of the MINI is available with a choice of two different suspension set-ups offering the customer either a truly sporting experience in the MINI or a more comfort-oriented style of motoring. In its basic set-up, the new MINI Cooper is more comfort-oriented than its predecessor, while the suspension of the MINI Cooper S is far more sporting and dynamic, reflecting the car’s superior performance.
Both models are available as an option with sports suspension comprising even firmer springs, dampers, and anti-roll bars.
The front axle comes with inner-vented disc brakes measuring 280 millimetres/11.02´´ in diameter (294 millimetres/11.57´´ on the MINI Cooper S). On the rear axle discs measuring 259 millimetres or 10.20´´ apply brake power smoothly and efficiently.
On both models the brake system is supported by ABS anti-lock brakes, EBD Electronic Brake Force Distribution, and CBC Cornering Brake Control. Emergency situations when applying the brakes are detected, in turn, by the Brake Assistant in the new MINI building up maximum brake pressure as quickly as possible. A new feature, finally, is Hill Assist operating in conjunction with DSC and preventing the car from rolling back on an uphill gradient by closing the brakes briefly when the driver is about to set off.
The MINI Cooper comes as standard on 15-inch light-alloy wheels running on 175/65 R 15 low-profile tyres. The MINI Cooper S, in turn, features 16-inch light-alloy wheels and runs on 195/65 R 16 tyres. Seventeen-inch wheels running on 205/45 R 17 tyres are available as an option.Benefiting from runflat technology, all 16- and 17-inch tyres offer superior safety in an emergency, allowing the driver to continue even after a complete flat for a distance of up to 150 kilometres or 90 miles at a speed of not more than 80 km/h or 50 mph, and thus reaching the nearest workshop safe and sound.
As yet a further feature, the new MINI is equipped with TDC tyre defect control recognising a gradual loss of air in good time and warning the driver appropriately by way of a visual signal in the cockpit display. The driver is therefore able to take action before the tyre itself is damaged or before things might become hazardous.
Electronic systems optimising the car’s driving behaviour.
ASC+T Automatic Stability Control + Traction (which may be deactivated if required) and DSC Dynamic Stability Control ensure extra safety in critical situations in the new MINI. DSC counteracts any lack of stability possibly arising on slippery surfaces or with the car oversteering or understeering in a bend. Intervening in the brakes as required and acting on the engine control unit, DSC is able to stabilise the car in such a situation, the new MINI therefore offering maximum driving safety under all conditions on the road.
