THE MINI COUPE. A RECIPE FOR UNBRIDLED DRIVING FUN.

Woodcliff Lake, NJ – June 6, 2011…MINI is expanding its product family with the launch of a model geared squarely to maximizing driving fun. The MINI Coupe indulges the keen driver with a level of agility unmatched in the small car segment, along with a unique body and interior concept and the brand’s customary commitment to premium levels of quality and equipment.

The first two-seater in its line-up sees MINI not only breathe new life into its successful racing history but also provide a shot in the arm for the super-compact sports car class. The selection of engines, chassis set-up, weight distribution and aerodynamic properties of the MINI Coupe are all focused on delivering optimum performance. As a result, the new car radiates the brand’s hallmark go-kart feeling with a whole new depth of intensity and achieves the best performance statistics ever recorded by a volume-produced MINI… it is the fastest-accelerating MINI ever and has the highest top speed.

The latest generation of four-cylinder petrol engines.

The MINI Coupe can be ordered with the most powerful petrol engines in the brand’s arsenal. Outputs range from the 121 hp of the MINI Cooper Coupe, to MINI Cooper S Coupe (181 hp), all the way up to the MINI John Cooper Works Coupe, a thoroughbred athlete producing 208 hp.

The ultimate in go-kart feeling.

A level of chassis quality that is unmatched in the small car segment gives the new MINI Coupe the handling flair you would expect from the brand. The precise Electric Power Steering, the standard-fitted DSC stability control system, powerful brakes and measures designed specifically to optimize torsional rigidity ensure the MINI Coupe driver can enjoy the ultimate in go-kart feeling.

Distinctive roof form, optimized aerodynamics, impressive storage space.

Its flat silhouette and innovative “helmet roof” lend the MINI Coupe a sporty and individual allure. In addition to the integral roof spoiler, an active rear spoiler optimizes airflow at higher speeds.

Helped by its extremely high-opening tailgate and large luggage area with through-loading facility, the MINI Coupe displays outstanding versatility in day-to-day driving, when transporting leisure items or sports gear, and travel bags for trips.

At A Glance.

• MINI gives the small car segment another fascinating injection of variety with the presentation of the first two-seater in the brand’s current model range. The MINI Coupe represents the faithful transposition of the brand’s sporting DNA into a cutting-edge vehicle with a new interpretation of the super-compact sports car class; unrivalled handling agility and the best performance figures of any model in the MINI line-up; innovative design with a distinctive “helmet roof” form and optimized aerodynamic properties; a wide-opening tailgate and large, variable-use luggage area ensuring extensive versatility.

• Latest generation of four-cylinder engines; most powerful petrol units in the MINI range; engine technology underpinned by the development expertise of the BMW Group / derived directly from motorsports; six-speed manual gearbox fitted as standard, six-speed automatic optional for MINI Cooper S Coupe and MINI Cooper Coupe.

• A chassis set-up, weight balance and body structure geared squarely to providing unbeatable driving fun gives the car’s go-kart feeling unrivalled depth; Electric Power Steering and DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) as standard, DTC (Dynamic Traction Control) with EDLC (Electronic Differential Lock Control) optional (standard on MINI John Cooper Works Coupe); innovative pedestrian protection systems and measures to enhance body rigidity shift the car’s weight balance slightly further forward, giving the front-wheel-drive MINI Coupe optimized traction; agility and safety boosted by increase in torsional rigidity using carefully targeted, model-specific strengthening elements.

• First “three-box” MINI with strikingly stepped rear end in the classic style of a Gran Turismo; sporty, flat Coupe silhouette; sits a full inch lower than MINI Hardtop; new, faithful expression of the hallmark MINI design language; distinctive “helmet roof” with integral roof spoiler; first MINI with an active rear spoiler to optimize airflow at higher speeds; rear spoiler extends automatically at 80 km/h (50 mph).

• Strict two-seater concept with extended stowage and loading capacity behind the driver and passenger seats; large, variable-use luggage area; large through-loading facility into the passenger compartment; wide and extremely high-opening tailgate makes loading easier.

• Engine variants:

MINI John Cooper Works Coupe: 1.6-liter four-cylinder petrol engine with twin-scroll turbocharger and direct injection, plus numerous technological details carried over directly from motorsports.

Displacement: 1,598 cc

Output: 208 hp at 6,000 rpm

Max. torque: 192 lb-ft at 1,850 – 5,600 rpm (207 lb-ft with Overboost at 1,700 – 4,500 rpm)

Acceleration: 0–60 mph: 6.1 seconds

Top speed: 149 mph

Average fuel consumption according to EU standard: 7.1 liters per 100 kilometers ( US EPA estimates not yet available.)

CO2 emissions: 165 g/km

MINI Cooper S Coupe: 1.6-liter four-cylinder petrol engine with twin-scroll turbocharger, direct injection and fully variable valve management based on the BMW Group’s VALVETRONIC technology.

Displacement: 1,598 cc

Output: 181 hp at 5,500 rpm

Max. torque: 177 lb-ft at 1,600 – 5,000 rpm (192 lb-ft with Overboost at 1,700 – 4,500 rpm)

Acceleration: 0–60 mph: 6.5 seconds

Top speed: 142 mph

Average fuel consumption according to EU standard: 5.8 liters per 100 kilometers ( US EPA estimates not yet available)

CO2 emissions: 136 g/km

MINI Cooper Coupe: 1.6-liter four-cylinder petrol engine with fully variable valve management based on the BMW Group’s VALVETRONIC technology.

Displacement: 1,598 cc

Output: 121 hp at 6,000 rpm

Max. torque: 118 lb-ft at 4,250 rpm

Acceleration: 0–60 mph: 8.3 seconds

Top speed: 127 mph

Average fuel consumption according to EU standard: 5.4 liters per 100 kilometers ( US EPA estimates not yet available)

CO2 emissions: 127 g/km

• Exterior dimensions:

Length: 146.8 inches / 3,728 millimeters (MINI Cooper S Coupe, MINI John Cooper Works Coupe: 147 inches / 3,734 millimeters)

Width: 66.3 inches / 1,683 millimeters

Height: 54.6 inches / 1,387millimeters (MINI Cooper S Coupe, MINI John Cooper Works Coupe: 54.5 inches / 1,384 millimeters)

Wheelbase: 97.1 inches / 2,467 millimeters

  Instantaneous power. Engines and transmissions.

In the MINI Coupe, engine power is converted into pure driving fun more directly and comprehensively than ever. Cutting-edge drive system technology ensures that the engine’s output and torque are generated with exceptional efficiency – and experienced with great intensity by the driver. Instantaneous power development delivers impressive sports performance, while high elasticity and optimum gear ratios guarantee unbeatable agility in mid-range acceleration.

The MINI Coupe takes modern route in delivering an extra dose of urban driving fun. At the same time, the brand’s racing genes are clearly reflected in its character. Customers in the US can choose from a selection of three engines for their MINI Coupe. All the model variants carry the Cooper name in their designation.

Traditionally, this familiar badge has been a sign of outstanding sporting ability and a nod to the brand’s association with legendary Formula One designer John Cooper. This is the man who smoothed the passage of the classic Mini into race competition. Its racing exploits have long since passed into legend, reaching their zenith with three overall victories in the Monte Carlo Rally.

The MINI Coupe has also been created with winning in mind. Indeed, the MINI Cooper Coupe, MINI Cooper S Coupe, MINI John Cooper Works Coupe offer a blend of fuel consumption and driving fun that is unmatched.  

The MINI Cooper Coupe, MINI Cooper S Coupe are available with an optional six-speed automatic gearbox as an alternative to the six-speed manual item fitted as standard across the Coupe range.

The standard-fitted six-speed manual gearbox sets a new benchmark in the segment with its short shift travel and impressively precise action. A ready-to-drive weight of 44.8 kilograms (98.7 lb) makes this the lightest gearbox of its kind. The MINI Cooper S Coupe comes with a new, self-adjusting clutch. Automatic readjustment ensures that the pedal feel you expect from a MINI is there to be enjoyed over the car’s full service life. Plus, the synchronization of the gears is further optimized by a carbon coating for the clutch linings. The ratios have been set to ensure that each gear change takes place at the optimum engine speed and thus allows a rapid progression of the acceleration process.

A six-speed automatic gearbox with Steptronic function can be ordered for the MINI Cooper Coupe and the MINI Cooper S Coupe as an option. With its exceptionally short shift times and direct “target gear” finding capability on downshifts, the automatic likewise showcases the sporting character of the MINI Coupe. The driver can also change gear manually using the selector lever, while shift paddles on the steering wheel are available as an additional option.

MINI Cooper Coupe: high in energy, low in CO2.

The new member of the MINI family displays a contagious spirit and verve – even in entry-level form. The four-cylinder petrol engine in the MINI Cooper Coupe produces 121 hp from its 1.6-liter displacement, reaching this maximum output at 6,000 rpm. Peak torque of 118 lb-ft is on tap at 4,250 rpm.

The secret behind the engine’s lightning-fast response to every movement of the accelerator pedal lies primarily in the fully variable valve management system unique in the MINI segment. This throttle-free load control technology is based on the VALVETRONIC system found in BMW engines and optimizes both the engine’s responsiveness and its fuel consumption and emissions. Within fractions of a second, the valve management adjusts the stroke and opening period of the intake valves to the amount of output required, with the camshaft acting on the valves through an additional intermediate arm, and not directly through the cam follower. The pivot point of this additional intermediate arm is infinitely adjustable by an eccentric shaft controlled by an electric motor. The throttle butterfly – used to control load in conventional engines – is fitted solely as an emergency backup and for diagnostic purposes. Under normal circumstances it remains fully open at all times to minimize flow losses in the intake manifold.

The MINI Cooper Coupe uses this instant pulling power to deliver impressive acceleration and races from rest to the 0-60 mph mark in just  8.3 seconds. Its top speed stands at 127 mph. This performance contrasts with average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle of 5.4 liters per 100 km and CO2 emissions of 127 grams per kilometer.

MINI Cooper S Coupe: unbeatable efficiency, intoxicating driving fun.

The likewise 1.6-liter power unit under the bonnet of the MINI Cooper S Coupe comes with fully variable valve management as part of a package of technology and also features a twin-scroll turbocharger and petrol direct injection.

In this type of charge system the ducts of two cylinders are combined with one another in the exhaust manifold and in the turbocharger. This construction leads to instant development of charge pressure. Meanwhile, direct injection allows extremely precise amounts of fuel to be fed into the cylinders, promoting clean and efficient combustion. The combination of turbocharging, direct injection and variable valve management produces maximum output of 181 hp at 5,500 rpm and established the four-cylinder unit in the MINI Cooper S Coupe among the world’s highest rated engines.

Maximum torque of 177 lb-ft is on tap as low down as 1,600 rpm, and can be raised to 192 lb-ft for a short time using the Overboost. This function serves up additional pulling power to ensure particularly dynamic acceleration. The MINI Cooper S Coupe dashes from 0 to 60 mph in just 6.5 seconds, and its top speed stands at 142 mph. These performance figures team up with average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle of 5.8 liters per 100 km and CO2 emissions of 136 grams per kilometer.

MINI John Cooper Works Coupe: an extreme athlete in peak form.

The exceptionally sporty MINI models bearing the John Cooper Works badge hold a very special status within the model range. Features such as engine technology derived directly from motorsports mark them out from the norm. The MINI John Cooper Works Coupe adds another top-class athlete to the MINI ranks. A 208 hp four-cylinder engine with twin-scroll turbocharger and direct injection imbues it with unrestrained power, giving it the tools to do what MINI does best – entertaining drivers – even better.

The 1.6-liter engine under the bonnet of the MINI John Cooper Works Coupe is largely the same as the unit powering the competitors in the MINI CHALLENGE Clubsport series. Numerous technical details originate directly from developments in motorsports, including the aluminum cylinder block and bearing mounts, reinforced pistons, a particularly high-strength cylinder head and lightweight crankshafts. The exhaust valves are sodium-filled to provide the extra cooling required by a turbocharged engine, and the intake camshaft features infinite phase adjustment. The modified turbocharger develops even greater charge pressure than the engine in the MINI Cooper S Coupe. The model-specific exhaust system can be identified from the outside by its polished stainless steel twin tailpipes, while its resonant soundtrack – best sampled from inside the cabin – adds a distinctive extra layer to the extreme sports machine’s character.

The engine generates peak output at 6,000 rpm and produces maximum torque of 192 lb-ft; the Overboost function pushes this figure up to 207 lb-ft for a short time. The instantaneous power development ensures imposing acceleration, the MINI John Cooper Works Coupe rocketing from a standstill to 60 mph in 6.1 seconds on the way to a top speed of 149 mph. And yet average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle is kept at an unusually low level for cars in this output class; the MINI John Cooper Works Coupe burns just 7.1 liters of fuel per 100 km and has CO2 emissions of 165 grams per kilometer.

The ultimate in go-kart feeling. Suspension and driving experience.

The suspension system effortlessly translates the power of the MINI Coupe engines into a fun-filled and agile driving experience, delivering the sharp handling typical of MINI that also contributes to a high standard of active safety. With the suspension technology closely matched to the engine power, the MINI Coupe provides the most intensive expression to date of the trademark MINI driving experience, or go-kart feeling. Even when pushed hard in dynamic driving situations, the outstanding quality of the suspension, control arms, steering and brake system ensures confident control of the vehicle at all times.

The MINI Coupe owes its agility and sure, safe handling not only to front-wheel drive and superior suspension technology, but also to a low centre of gravity, a long wheelbase measuring 97.1 inches, and a front and rear track width of 57.4 inches and 57.8 inches respectively. The Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system is fitted as standard on the MINI Coupe. With its extensive functionality, it adds to the safe and sporty handling qualities.

Suspension technology: specific to MINI and unique in its segment.

Using top-quality components and a design that draws on the outstanding engineering expertise of the BMW Group, the MINI range offers suspension quality that is unique in this segment. In the MINI Coupe too, the suspension technology – as ever designed specifically and exclusively for the MINI – plays a big part in giving the vehicle its typical MINI character. This MINI-specific development approach is also responsible for the excellent balance between ride comfort and cornering stability, as well as the remarkably low levels of torque steer even when accelerating hard.

MacPherson strut front suspension provides excellent wheel location, while the sophisticated kinematics of the multi-link rear suspension maintain optimal road grip at all times. The longitudinal control arms are made of aluminum, which cuts down on weight. Anti-roll bars reduce body roll to a minimum and make their own contribution to safety and agility. The suspension components have been meticulously adapted to the sporty personality and specific weight balance of the MINI Coupe and the body calibration on all model versions emphasizes their sparkling handling characteristics. The optional sports suspension has firmer damper settings and comes with sturdier anti-roll bars front and rear. For a “hard-core” racing experience, the accessories range offers John Cooper Works suspension, with a 10 mm drop in ride height, ultra-firm damping and anti-roll bars whose diameter is even larger than on the sports suspension package.

15-inch alloy wheels are standard specification on the MINI Cooper Coupe, with a 16-inch version standard on the MINI Cooper S Coupe. The MINI John Cooper Works Coupe is specified with 17-inch, weight-optimized alloy wheels in John Cooper Works Cross Spoke CHALLENGE styling. In the US, the Cooper S and John Cooper Works Coupe models are equipped with standard run-flat tires, so it is possible to continue driving, subject to certain restrictions, even after a complete loss of tire pressure. The run-flat tires are optional for the MINI Cooper Coupe model. All models feature a Tire Pressure Monitor System as standard.

Guaranteed precision: Electric Power Steering and powerful brakes.

The compelling handling is also partly down to Electric Power Steering (EPS), which gives the MINI Coupe excellent directional control in all situations. This electromechanical power steering system is particularly effective at soaking up steering shocks and other vibrations.

The integrated active return function ensures that the steering wheel always returns precisely to the center position when straightening up after a turn. The speed-dependent power assist reduces the steering effort required from the driver when parking and maneuvering and, conversely, reduces the amount of assist at higher speeds to improve road feel and directional stability. The Electric Power Steering also helps to make the MINI more energy-efficient since its electric motor only operates on demand, when steering assistance is actually required. No power is consumed during straightline driving or steady-state cornering.

The MINI Coupe’s Electric Power Steering is also available with variable power assist levels. A Sport Button on the center console is standard on all MINI Coupe vehicles, allowing the driver to choose between the basic power assist level and a second mode designed to support a more performance-minded driving style. This second mode requires more steering input but provides a more responsive steering feel. Simultaneously, pressing the Sport Button also alters the response characteristics of the accelerator, which immediately delivers sharper, sportier reactions.

The MINI Coupe’s model-specific braking system provides powerful, fade-free deceleration, even under the hardest braking. The vented front brake discs have a diameter of 11 inches on the MINI Cooper Coupe, 11.6 on the Cooper S Coupe, and 12.4 inches on the MINI John Cooper Works Coupe. Optimal braking performance at the rear is provided by 10.2 inch discs (MINI John Cooper Works Coupe: 11 inches).

DSC Dynamic Stability Control as standard: optimized traction with DTC and EDLC.

The standard-fitted Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system, with extensive functionality, is a benchmark in the MINI segment. DSC makes an important contribution to safe and agile handling. In very dynamic driving situations and on slippery surfaces, the system can selectively brake individual wheels and reduce engine power to prevent a front- or rear-end slide at the earliest possible stage. The system includes integral anti-lock braking (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Cornering Brake Control (CBC), Brake Assist and Hill Start Assist.

Dynamic Stability Control is combined as standard on the MINI John Cooper Works Coupe, and optionally on all other model versions, with the Dynamic Traction Control system (DTC) with integrated Electronic Differential Lock Control (EDLC). DTC, which can be activated at the push of a button, raises the response thresholds to make it easier to move off on loose sand or snow, allowing the drive wheels to spin slightly in the process. DTC also allows a degree of controlled wheel slip under very sporty cornering. A longer push of the button fully deactivates the DSC system.

With DSC in “off” mode, the EDLC system responds instead, in relevant situations. EDLC offers enhanced performance characteristics when accelerating hard out of corners and tight bends by precisely controlled braking of a drive wheel that is starting to spin. This improves traction without negatively affecting the understeer/oversteer characteristics of the car. The result is smoother, faster cornering.

A unique personality – typically MINI. Concept and body design.

Both in handling and body design, the MINI Coupe embodies the trademark values of the brand in a new, very intense yet at the same time highly characteristic and unmistakable form. Its appearance radiates concentrated energy, and its performance delivers driving pleasure the moment it takes to the road. The MINI Coupe’s contemporary vehicle concept is based on a systematic, minimalist and authentic reworking of the classic hallmarks of the traditional ultra-compact sports car segment.

The MINI Coupe is the first two-seater volume-production model from MINI since the brand was relaunched in 2002. The absence of a rear seat bench creates new scope for offering spontaneous driving enjoyment for two people while at the same time catering for the requirements of an active and varied lifestyle.

The spacious, adaptable boot is extremely flexible. With a large, high-opening tailgate and a wide through-loading system that can also be opened from the driver’s or passenger’s seat, the MINI Coupe offers cargo-carrying possibilities that will suit a wide range of needs, whether for daily routine, leisure or touring for two.

Unique body concept and expressive proportions.

The body design is based on an authentic interpretation of typical MINI design, with a clear emphasis on the brand’s sporty DNA. At the same time the MINI Coupe adds its own bold and distinctive styling signature which, though extending beyond individual details, does not compromise the instantly recognizable brand identity.

The design language, with its combination of athletically sculpted surfaces, harmonious curves and parallel lines, follows all the salient MINI styling principles. At the same time, however, the Coupe also breaks the mould – as the first MINI to adopt a three-box body structure. Unlike the MINI Hardtop, the MINI Clubman and the MINI Convertible, the MINI Coupe is divided into three distinct segments – engine compartment, passenger compartment and boot. This structure helps to create a classic and very distinctive Gran Turismo-style rear end, particularly when the MINI Coupe is seen in silhouette.

The exterior dimensions give the MINI Coupe very sporty proportions and a low, forward-thrusting profile. While the overall length, overall width and are almost identical to the measurements of the MINI Hardtop, the overall height has been reduced by one inch. Oval recesses in the roof liner provide extra headroom inside the car.

The clear horizontal structuring into three distinct tiers – the body, the wrap-around glass areas and the strikingly superimposed roof – is a typical MINI hallmark. However, the innovative “helmet roof” in particular gives the MINI Coupe a distinctive appearance from every angle.

Also distinctive are the A-pillars and windscreen, which are more sharply raked than on the MINI. The resulting smaller frontal area gives the MINI Coupe excellent aerodynamic properties.

Stiff body, ideal weight balance.

The MINI Coupe is equipped with extra bodyshell stiffening at the rear, which means that the overall torsional rigidity of the body is even higher than on the MINI. In conjunction with the extra-sturdy side sills, this optimizes the occupant protection provided by the strong passenger cell. At the same time the high level of body stiffness on the MINI Coupe also enhances agility and precise handling control.

At the front of the vehicle, too, there are special body stiffening measures, along with innovative features to improve pedestrian protection. The resulting weight distribution has major benefits for vehicle dynamics. The slight increase in front axle load rating compared with the MINI increases traction at the front wheels and helps to ensure that the engine power is effortlessly translated into sporty acceleration.

Active rear spoiler for optimized aerodynamics.

To improve airflow at higher speeds, the MINI Coupe is the first ever MINI to feature an active rear spoiler, and it is the first in the BMW Group family to incorporate this technology. Integrated in the boot lid, the spoiler pops up automatically when the MINI Coupe reaches a speed of 80 km/h (50 mph). When the speed drops below 60 km/h (37 mph) again, a four-part control mechanism returns the spoiler to its rest position. It is also possible to operate the active rear spoiler manually, for example for cleaning purposes, using a button in the overhead control panel.

At higher speeds, the active rear spoiler reduces lift at the rear axle to improve aerodynamic balance and road grip. The active rear spoiler forms part of a precisely configured aerodynamic concept that also includes an innovatively designed roof spoiler. This roof spoiler is fully integrated into the styling of the helmet roof. It has an opening in the centre which allows the airflow over the roof to be directed down to the rear window or, depending on speed, to the rear spoiler. This reduces rear lift and improves the driving dynamics of the MINI Coupe.