The New MINI Cooper D.

The New MINI Cooper D.

MINI Advanced Diesel technology: First time in Singapore.

Singapore. The new-generation MINI Cooper D has arrived in Singapore for the first time. Designed to be bigger, drives better and packed with more technological innovation than before, the new MINI D offers a new twist to being the leading original of the premium small car segment.

The new MINI Cooper D will be retailing at the MINI Habitat.

The new MINI Cooper D is powered by a 1.5-litre 3-cylinder advanced diesel engine that can generate a maximum output of 116 hp and peak torque of 270 Nm from 1,750 to 2,250 rpm, with the ability to propel it from 0-100km/h in 9.2 seconds and reach a top speed of 200 km/h. Yet. it is highly fuel-efficient with an average of 3.9 litres per 100 kilometres (26 km/litre), and comes with a low level of CO2 emissions at 103 g/km (as per average EU test cycle figures).

“Like a typical MINI, the MINI Cooper D is smooth, slick and offers lots of fun to drive. It offers +5.0% more power output and +23.5% better fuel-efficiency than its predecessor model. In fact, the MINI Cooper D is capable of travelling up to 1,130km with just one tank of diesel (based on average EU test cycle),” said Mr. Sethipong Anutarasoti, Corporate Affairs Director of BMW Group Asia.

New engines: MINI Twin Power Turbo Technology

For the first time the 3-cylinder engine is introduced, featuring MINI TwinPower Turbo Technology. The diesel engine of the new MINI Cooper D has a turbocharging system with variable turbine geometry and the latest generation of common rail direct injection with fuel injection pressure increased as compared to the predecessor engine so as to achieve high-precision fuel metering and clean combustion. The result is a further boost to driving fun along with increased efficiency and adherence to the EU5 exhaust emission standard.

Six-speed automatic transmission with optimised efficiency.

The six-speed automatic transmission which comes standard for the Cooper D variant offers improved efficiency, enhanced shift comfort and increased shift dynamics. These advancements have been achieved by means of such elements as a more efficient transmission control system, a more direct connection and optimised hydraulics. The new MINI also combines automatic transmission with the automatic engine start/stop function for the first time, preventing unnecessary fuel consumption caused by idling at junctions or in congested traffic.

In conjunction with the optional MINI navigation system, the automatic transmission is also able to take account of the route profile in controlling gear shifts. Based on navigation data, the appropriate drive position is selected to match the imminent situation on the road, e.g. directly prior to junctions or on corners. This prevents unnecessary upshifts between two bends in quick succession, for example.

The MINIMALISM technology which comes as standard includes not only the automatic engine start/stop function but also extensive measures to optimise weight and aerodynamic drag in the new MINI. Other measures include brake energy recuperation and needs-oriented control of the fuel pump, coolant pump and other ancillary units. The electromechanical power steering is equally as energy-efficiency as the map-controlled oil pumps. An optimised preheating process reduces the energy required to start the diesel engine by around 50%.

A significant optimisation of aerodynamic properties is achieved by such measures as active cooling air flaps, extensive underbody trim and air ducting elements in the upper section of the C columns.

Optimised suspension technology: Less weight, more go-kart feeling.

The refinement of suspension technology in the new MINI keeps to the well-established design principle of the single-joint spring strut axle at front along with a multilink rear axle that is unique within the competitive environment, as well as featuring extensive optimisation of all components in terms of material selection and geometry. All improvements are aimed at intensifying the experience of the agile MINI handling properties, commonly known as the go-kart feeling. The set-up of the wheel suspension, body mounting, vehicle suspension, damping, steering and brakes takes account of the increased level of engine power and the typical MINI concept consisting of front-wheel drive, transversely mounted engine at the front, low centre of gravity, short overhangs, wide track and a rigid, weight-optimised body structure.

In order to reduce weight and increase component rigidity, the new front axle is fitted with aluminium swivel bearings as well as axle supports and wishbones made of high-strength steel. The modified front axle kinematics supports the agile turn-in response and precise steering sensation of the new MINI. The share of high-strength steel used in the rear axle has also been increased. Tube-shaped stabilisers at the front and rear axle likewise contribute to weight reduction.

Intelligent lightweight construction means that weight reduction in the new MINI is combined with an increase in rigidity, thereby promoting both agility and occupant protection. In spite of its extended range of fittings, virtually all variants of the new MINI are lighter than their respective predecessor models. They also weigh less than their competitors in the segment.

MINI Driving Modes.

The new MINI Driving Modes provide an excellent basis for fuel efficient or sporty motoring. A rotary switch at the base of the gear or selector lever is used to activate the standard MID mode, the SPORT or the GREEN mode. In addition to the characteristic curve of the accelerator and steering and engine acoustics, the MINI Driving Modes also influence the ambient lighting, the displays in the LED centre instrument, and the shift characteristics of the automatic transmission. The choice is between a setup of very sporty, comfortable and well-balanced, or geared towards fuel efficiency.

In GREEN mode - supporting a relaxed and more fuel-efficient driving style - the energy used by electrically powered comfort functions such as air conditioning is reduced. In cars fitted with automatic transmission it is also possible to use the coasting function. The drivetrain is decoupled at speeds of between 50 and 160km/h as soon as the driver removes their foot from the accelerator pedal. The new MINI then rolls at idling engine speed at a minimum rate of fuel consumption.

Exterior: Bigger proportions, better agility and ride comfort.

The length of the MINI Cooper D, meanwhile, is at 3,821mm (+98mm vs predecessor) and has a track width of 1,501mm (front +42mm and rear +34mm vs predecessor). Cornering agility and ride comfort benefit from these new dimensions as do the amount of space available to occupants and the luggage compartment volume. Luggage compartment volume has been increased by 51 litres to 211 litres.

Innovative driver assistance systems: Increased convenience and safety.

Further evidence of the technological progress ushered in with the new edition of the MINI is to be found in the program of optional driver assistance systems - available for the first time in a model of the British brand.

New features include the optional MINI Head-Up-Display which shows information relevant to the driver on an extendible monitor in the upper section of the dashboard between the windscreen and steering wheel. The MINI Head-Up Display promotes concentration on the road by displaying information directly in the driver's line of sight. It can then be read quickly and conveniently without averting one's eyes from the road. The information that can be shown in the MINI Head-Up Display includes speed in figures, navigation directions in the form of arrow graphics and junction sketches, visual signals for collision warning, display symbols generated by Speed Limit Info and No Passing Info, Check Control messages and entertainment program details such as radio channels and track titles. The graphics on the high-resolution screen are clearly visible in all light conditions.

Other innovations in the area of driver assistance systems for the new MINI include the Driving Assistant option. This comprises a camera-based cruise control and distance control function which automatically maintains a distance from the vehicle ahead, and the collision and pedestrian warning system with initial brake function. In critical situations, the driver is first provided with a visual signal in the form of a graphic symbol that appears in the instrument cluster; this is supplemented at the second warning level by an acoustic signal prompting the driver to react.

In addition to this, an automatic brake manoeuvre is triggered in the case of an imminent collision with a pedestrian or if there is a risk of a rear-end collision in urban traffic. Here the new MINI is decelerated at medium brake force. Depending on the situation, this can either prevent an impact occurring altogether or else significantly reduce the severity of the accident. As the automatic deceleration is activated, the driver is also given an unmistakable prompt to intervene.

A rear view camera and parking assistant are also optionally available for the new MINI. The video images supplied by the rear view camera underneath the tailgate handle are shown on the on-board computer in the central instrument as an aid when manoeuvring and reverse parking.

The new MINI Cooper D is available for viewing at the MINI Habitat showroom.

-END-

Additional information enclosed:

1. The MINI Cooper D price list.

2. The MINI Cooper D specifications.

For more information:

BMW Asia Pte Ltd

Corporate Affairs Department

Sethipong Anutarasoti

Tel: +65 6838 9630

Email: sethipong.anutarasoti@bmwasia.com

Daniel Chan

Tel: +65 6838 9639

Email: daniel.chan@bmwasia.com

Media Website: BMW Group PressClub Asia

https://www.press.bmwgroup.com/asia/startpage.html

Eurokars Habitat Pte Ltd

Andrew Lee

Marketing Manager

Tel: +65 6551 5530

Email: Andrew.lee@eurokars.com.sg

About MINI in Asia

MINI is headquartered and manufactured in Oxford, UK and is a brand of BMW Group. In East Asia, this iconic car is sold in Brunei, Indonesia, New Caledonia, Philippines, Singapore, Vietnam, Sri Lanka and Tahiti. The full range of MINI is available in these market – MINI Hatchback, MINI Cabriolet, MINI Clubman, MINI Countryman, MINI Coupé, MINI Roadster and MINI John Cooper Works.

For more information: www.mini.com.sg.

Eurokars Habitat Pte Ltd

In 2006, the first ever MINI Habitat, developed by Eurokars Group, was officially opened to the public. Voted as the best MINI Showroom in 2009 at the International MINI Dealer Conference held in London, MINI Habitat encompasses the vibrant colours, quirky designs and trademarks of the MINI brand. Currently, MINI Habitat houses the MINI Brick Lane, MINI Cooper, MINI Cooper S, MINI Cabriolet, MINI Clubman, MINI Coupé, MINI Roadster, MINI Countryman, MINI Paceman, as well as MINI John Cooper Works for the full range.

MINI Habitat is located at 27 Leng Kee Road.

Operation hours:

Mon – Sat 8:30AM – 7.00PM.

Sun and public holidays 10.00AM – 6.00PM.