The 2008 Mini Cooper roster gains a new body style. The original 2-door hatchback was redesigned for 2007, and returns for '08 virtually unchanged. Mini Cooper convertibles continue for '08 using the 2002-2007-generation design. Introduced in the spring of '08 was the Clubman, an extended version of the hatchback that is 10 inches longer on a three-inch-longer wheelbase, adds a 3rd door on the passenger side, and has two rear "barn doors" instead of a hatchback. Coopers come in base and S models, all with a 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine. Base hatchbacks and Clubmans have 118 hp, base convertibles 115. S hatchbacks and Clubmans are turbocharged and have 172 horsepower, while S convertibles are supercharged and have 168; all S versions come with a hood scoop and sport suspension. A 6-speed manual transmission is standard on all but the base convertible, which has a 5-speed manual. A 6-speed automatic is optional on all but the base convertible, which offers a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). Available safety features include ABS, traction control, and an antiskid system. Hatchbacks and Clubmans come with front side airbags and curtain side airbags. Convertibles have front side airbags that provide head and torso protection. Convertibles also have a power fabric top with heated glass rear window, plus standard rear obstacle detection and a "sunroof" mode that opens the top above the front seats. A wireless cell phone link is optional on hatchbacks and Clubmans. BMW owns Mini, and Coopers are sold at most major-market BMW dealers.
Competition
Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. The Sporty/Performance Car class consists of two-seat roadsters, 4-cylinder hatchbacks, and V8 muscle cars. Regardless of configuration, all have an emphasis on affordable performance.
Our Best Buys include the Mazda MX-5 and Scion tC. Our Recommended picks are the Ford Mustang and Mini Cooper. New this year is the Mini Cooper Clubman.
Kamis, 29 Januari 2009
The Mini Review
In 1959, a groundbreaking new subcompact coupe emerged in England using a transverse-mounted engine and an efficient, boxy front-wheel-drive layout. It achieved truly mini-compact exterior dimensions along with a surprising amount of usable space inside. Because it was affordable, stylish, fun to drive and easy to park anywhere, the British Mini and Mini Cooper quickly achieved icon status around the world -- including the U.S., where it sold as a brief counter-culture favorite during the 1960s.
After a lengthy break, the Mini Cooper returned to our shores in 2002 under BMW's direction to resurrect the legend. As before, the current Mini Cooper hatchback coupe and convertible appeal to a diverse audience. Its high style is embraced by pop stars and celebrities, while an affordable bottom line enables middle-class commoners to easily scrape together the entry-level price of admission. It's a uniquely sporting blend of classic British mini-car heritage and charm combined with precise German engineering and construction underneath.
The born-again Mini Cooper and supercharged (later turbocharged) Mini Cooper S are stylish, affordable go-karts for adults. As such, whether new or used, our editors prefer to option the Mini Cooper sparingly. Though available with loads of premium -- and premium-priced -- upgrades and packages, Minis are an even better value and more true to their roots with just a few options. Equipped thusly, you won't find a more satisfying subcompact hatchback or convertible for the price.
Current Mini Cooper
The current Mini Cooper was redesigned for the 2007 model year. The goal was an evolutionary one, as befitting an icon. Though scarcely different looking, the Mini Cooper's mechanicals were updated, most shortcomings were addressed and other changes were made to accommodate regulations that have changed since the last generation debuted. The front end was reshaped to be more pedestrian-friendly in the event of a collision and the car is almost 3 inches longer than its predecessor, but the width and height carry over. Its wheelbase is also unchanged, but despite similar appearances, no body panels are shared between these two generations. For now, this version is offered as a hatchback only.
That new front end also provides more underhood space for two new, more fuel-efficient 1.6-liter four-cylinder engines. The base version develops 118 horsepower and 114 pound-feet of torque, while the turbocharged, direct-injected engine in the Cooper S (which replaces last year's supercharged engine) turns out 172 hp and 177 lb-ft of twist. Power is directed through six forward gears, with your choice of manual or automatic control.
Inside, the interior adds a bit more function to the Mini's already well-sculpted form. There's an even larger central speedo pod that now houses the audio system controls, a tilt wheel that now telescopes and cupholders that really hold cups. Best of all, the cabin is more spacious and refined with upgraded materials, more comfortable seating and easier-to-use controls.
Although slightly bigger, stronger, faster and demonstrably improved over its predecessor for most drivers, there does appear to be a trade-off for hard-core enthusiasts: The new Mini Cooper seems to have lost something dynamically at the edge. It feels a little heavier and more buttoned-down when driven with gusto, perhaps a little less eager to be tossed into corners than the last-generation Cooper.
Past Mini Cooper Models
In 2002 the legendary Mini Cooper returned with a modern, space-efficient interior, a chassis by BMW and a generous list of standard features for under 17 grand. The standard Cooper had just 115 hp, but the supercharged Cooper S weighed in with a more forceful 163 ponies. Detail improvements and color changes carried the Mini Cooper through its first few years, so even early examples look up to date and can make particularly fine used car values. Expect lively handling from either model, but be aware that the suspension setup of the Cooper S -- though enthusiasts will love it -- might be overly stiff for some.
Previous generation Mini Coopers from 2002-'06 tend to retain their value and outshine the competition in many ways, so they're highly sought after among used car shoppers. To keep things fresh and perky in 2005, Mini updated the Cooper's front and rear fascias and introduced a convertible version, whose canvas top could be lowered in just 15 seconds. The Mini Cooper convertible combined the enjoyment of open-air driving with the expressive, hip Euro attitude and carefree agility that made its hatchback coupe sibling so famous. For those who wanted their hatchback served up extra-hot, there was a special John Cooper Works option that upped the power to 207 horses and fortified the chassis with larger brakes.
SELECT A SPECIFIC MINI COOPER MODEL YEAR*
* Edmunds.com maintains vehicle data as far back as 1990.
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