Innovative technology for typical MINI driving pleasure

The new generation of engines.

Maximum driving fun and the most economical fuel consumption – a two-fold victory in terms of performance and efficiency has helped the latest MINI models to score top marks versus their rivals in comparative tests regarding engine technology and driving performance. This is made possible by a new generation of engines and the consistent expansion of the MINIMALISM technology which will be standard on all models.

For the first time, the MINI models of the future will use both three and four-cylinder engines that not only cover an even broader range of performance, but also set new standards in terms of output, efficiency, comfort and reliability.

More power and lower CO2 emissions thanks to MINI TwinPower turbo technology.

A common feature of the new drive units is the MINI TwinPower turbo technology. In the case of the petrol engines, this technology package includes turbocharging, direct fuel injection, variable camshaft control on the intake and outlet sides (dual VANOS) and, in the more powerful versions, fully variable valve control is implemented with BMW Group’s patented VALVETRONIC system. The diesel engines also have a turbocharger and the latest generation common rail direct injection system allowing all engines to comply with exhaust standard EU6.

A new generation of engines with typical MINI performance characteristics.

All of the new petrol engines feature spontaneous responsiveness, high torque characteristics and supreme power delivery. The 1.5 litre three-cylinder reaches maximum torque of 220 newton metres at 1,250 rpm; this can be increased briefly to 230 newton metres by means of the overboost function. The 192 hp four-cylinder achieves a torque of 280 newton metres with the same engine speed (300 Nm with overboost).

The new diesel engines combine superior torque with significantly enhances the high level of performance and efficiency already familiar in the MINI. At the head of the pack is a three-cylinder, 1.5 litre model to generate a maximum output of 116 hp and a maximum torque of 270 newton metres. This engine produces more than a 7 per cent reduction in comparison with the previous version.

Newly developed manual and automatic gearboxes will make a further contribution to the intensive driving pleasure with enhanced efficiency. The new manual gearboxes feature an innovative gear sensor which adapts the engine speed when gear-shifting. This permits especially fast and sporty shifting with always the ideal engine speed available during both up and down gear shifts.

The automatic start-stop function can also be used in future MINI models in conjunction with the automatic gearbox, avoiding unnecessary fuel consumption when stopped at junctions or when caught in heavy traffic. In addition for cars equipped with a navigation system, gear selection can be adapted to the current route, therefore the suitable gear is selected before reaching junctions or before cornering.

Passive safety, protection for passengers and pedestrians.

Premium vehicles by MINI hold an excellent position within their vehicle class not just in terms of driving pleasure, but also in the area of passenger protection. In the event of a collision, precisely defined support structures and generously proportioned crumple zones help to protect the passenger cell from the forces that are unleashed, while highly efficient restraint systems offer MINI passengers optimum protection in all types of crashes. Top scores in international crash tests confirm the effectiveness of the overall concept for maximum passive safety, which is under continuous development for new models to ensure that the latest standards are always met. In addition, innovative solutions in the area of pedestrian protection are also being developed for future MINI models, helping to reduce the risk of injury for other road users.

In the event of the vehicle rolling over, the reinforced pillars and roof supports secure the survival space of the passengers even more intensively than ever. Reinforced structures in the B pillar and sill area, high-strength side impact bars in the doors and stable seat braces will further minimise the degree of deformation and the speed of intrusion in the event of a side impact.

Chassis technology.

In combination with the features characteristic of the MINI, such as the low centre of gravity, wide track, short overhangs, particularly rigid bodywork and intelligent lightweight design, innovative chassis solutions make for even more precise and sporty handling. This is the first time that MINI is to offer electrically adjustable dampers that can be used to optimise sportiness and driving comfort. The electric control of the damper valves allows the characteristic response to uneven road surface to be varied. Two characteristic modes are available for adjusting the dampers and these can be activated at the flip of a switch. The compression and rebound level in the shock absorber can be adjusted by selecting the appropriate setting. Depending on the driver’s preferences, it is possible to choose either an emphatically sporty or a balanced, comfortable chassis.

The complete redesign of the chassis for future MINI models continues to focus on the tried-and-tested structure of the single-link spring strut axle at the front and the multi-link rear axle, which is unique among MINI’s competitors.