2013 Mini Cooper

THE 2013 MINI HARDTOP

10/31/2012

Mini

The MINI Experience Continues

Go-kart-driving fun, an interior that provides the maximum amount of car in the minimum amount of space and a myriad of personalization possibilities keep the 2013 MINI Hardtop on top of the premium small-car segment.

The body of the latest-generation MINI - introduced in 2007 - boasts evolutionary development from the iconic 1959 Classic Mini, while the interior includes styling cues that are evocative of the original and contain the latest technological advances.

More fun with less guilt: The MINI Powertrain

The 2013 MINI Hardtop will include the MINI 1.6 liter Cooper and Cooper S engines as well as the John Cooper Works option that has been extensively updated this year. These four-cylinder powertrains resemble the original MINI's in cylinder number and placement, transversely over the front axle, but are cleaner, far more efficient and powerful. Both were developed utilizing BMW Group's expertise in the field of engine development.

The MINI Cooper Hardtop accelerates from 0-60 mph in 8.4 seconds. The MINI Cooper S and John Cooper Works engines join the forces of direct injection and a twin-scroll turbocharger with the incredible power-enhancing and fuel-efficient technology known as Valvetronic. The MINI Cooper S Hardtop accelerates to from 0-60 mph in 6.6 seconds while the John Cooper Works does so in 6.2 seconds.

The MINI Cooper produces 121 hp and 114 lb-ft of torque, while the MINI Cooper S boasts 181 hp and 177 lb-ft respectively (192 lb-ft with overboost). The John Cooper Works model produces 208 hp and 192 lb-ft of torque at 1,850 - 5,600 rpm (207 lb-ft with Overboost at 1,700 - 4,500 rpm).

Compared with the MINI Cooper Hardtop, the MINI Cooper S and John Cooper Works Hardtop have a more sporting suspension set-up, and as an option, all three models are available with a sport suspension for an even higher standard of driving pleasure.

Despite their much higher level of dynamic performance and sporting character, MINI Hardtop delivers superior fuel economy, with the Cooper S Hardtop having a 2013 EPA fuel economy estimate of 35 Highway / 26 City mpg for a combined EPA estimate of 29 mpg. The John Cooper Works powertrain allows for guilt-free, exhilarating motoring, with an EPA estimated fuel economy rating of 35 mpg highway / 26 city / 29 combined.

The Cooper Hardtop is even more efficient with EPA 2013 estimates of 37/29 Highway/City for a combined rating of 32 mpg. All fuel economy numbers are for models equipped with manual transmission.

The MINI Cooper, Cooper S and John Cooper Works Hardtops all come standard with a six-speed manual transmission. Starting in 2013, all models including the John Cooper Works, can be ordered with an optional six-speed automatic transmission that features a sport mode and steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters on the two turbocharged engines, allowing the driver to keep both hands on the wheel even during gearshifts.

All MINI models come with a 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 EPS Electric Power-assisted Steering helps make the MINI even more nimble and agile on the road, by delivering speed-related assistance ensuring low steering forces when parking and precise control at high speeds. And when the standard Sport button is depressed, EPS offers a sportier mode that specifically increases steering forces for an even more direct driving experience.

MacPherson-style spring struts on the front axle ensure precise wheel guidance, keeping the steering almost entirely free of drive forces in fast bends, when accelerating and when applying the brakes. The multi-link rear axle, a concept unique in the MINI segment, ensures optimum tire contact with the road at all times through its kinematics.

MINI Hardtop Design - Clear look and a friendly face.

"From the original to the original" - this was the philosophy in creating the body design of the second-generation modern MINI. The entire car was redesigned from the ground up, with many details and features being modified and enhanced in the process. But in its outer look, the MINI remains unmistakable, the radiator grill and large circular headlights characterizing the front end of the car and giving it the traditional, "bulldog," friendly appearance.

LEDs optimize both the lighting effect and contemporary appearance of the rear lights on all MINIs. This advanced light technology also provides the MINI with a very distinctive look at night.

The front end and front design of the car serves to distinguish the individual model variants. One significant difference setting the two variants apart is the more powerful and muscular looking hood, which includes an exclusive air-intake scoop on the Cooper S, and is some 0.8-inches higher than that of the smooth one on the Cooper.

Seen from the side, the MINI is firm, taut and striking, resting powerfully on its wheels in a look well-known to friends and aficionados of the brand as the "stance on the wheels." Another characteristic is the seemingly uninterrupted "flow" of windows around the car, adorning the new MINI with a visual of having a, 360-degree band of glass.

The distinct "shoulders" at the rear of the new MINI form a counter-element to the longer front end of the car. The well-known MINI proportions are maintained and are faithful to the original Classic Mini.

Cabin fever

Inside the cars, the newly designed controls for the audio and air conditioning systems ensure optimized functionality and ergonomics. Combined with the horizontal geometry of the interior and, in particular, the instrument panel, the displays in their purist, round design characterize the overall design theme of the cockpit.

The central element is the MINI-signature center speedometer. The displays and controls for the entertainment system as well as the display for the optional MINI Connected and Navigation systems are integrated in the speedometer, while the tachometer remains a separate unit positioned, as befits a sporting car, behind the steering wheel in the driver's line of sight.

A round transmitter finished in typical MINI style replaces the conventional door and ignition key, with the driver controlling engine operation with a start/stop button. All instruments and controls are very smooth and easy to operate, positioned at the right point for optimum ergonomics.

Iconic center speedometer and toggle switches

Combined with the horizontal geometry of the interior and, in particular, the dashboard, the instrument displays in their purist, round design characterize the overall design theme of the cockpit. The central element is the MINI-signature center speedometer, which features a maximum speed of 160 mph. The displays and controls for the entertainment systems as well as the display for the optional navigation systems are integrated in the speedometer, while the tachometer remains a separate unit positioned, as befits a sporting car, behind the steering wheel in the driver's line of sight.

Background illumination in five colors

The interior lighting reflects typical MINI style and class, with the addition of ambient lighting which can be varied in five stages from warm orange to sporting blue. Serving as discreet "waterfall illumination" from above and as indirect illumination of the roof lining, the door storage bins and the door handle recesses, this illumination scheme creates a unique atmosphere inside the 2013 MINI.

The cutting-edge exclusivity of the interior is further underlined by harmonious colors and high-quality materials. The model-specific selection of seat upholstery, trim elements and color lines have also been extensively updated.

'Design worlds' help achieve detailed interior customization

In customary MINI style, additional - and almost limitless - customization can be achieved by varying the individual components of each design world and adding further items from the extensive range of equipment and accessories.

All the models in the new MINI family come as standard with a wealth of interior features which underline their high level of quality even more strikingly than before, as well as ensuring optimized functionality.

The distinctive design of the cockpit, all the controls and the door and side trim exudes cutting-edge exclusivity, a virtue now accentuated further by an extremely harmonious color scheme and high-quality materials.

All of the buttons and switches (and their surrounds) on the center console below the center speedo are black, as are the controls and framing of the audio system display. The air conditioning controls are bordered by a chrome ring, and another chrome highlight can be found in the steering wheel. The keypads of the optional multifunction steering wheel are also in black.

Complete range of safety equipment

The modified structure of the body shell as well as a wide range of safety features help to ensure the 2013 MINI meets or exceeds all accident-protection requirements. In a recent NHTSA test, MINI excelled in all aspects with four- and five-star ratings.

Reflecting the premium standard of the brand, MINI models come with a wide range of safety equipment, including six standard airbags to enhance occupant safety. Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) is standard on all models and Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) is optional. DTC also includes an EDLC (Electronic Differential Lock) function that controls wheel spin on the drive wheels during acceleration by using front brake force to manage the speed and torque differential between the wheels.

Active safety is enhanced in critical driving situations by the standard anti-lock brakes (ABS), Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBFD), and Cornering Brake Control (CBC).

Brake Assist detects emergency operation of the brakes and builds up maximum brake pressure very quickly. Hill Assist start-off assistance, in conjunction with DSC, maintains brake pressure for up to three seconds after the brake pedal has been released and before the clutch has been engaged, to prevent the car from rolling back when setting off on an uphill gradient.

Adaptive Headlights are available on a MINI in conjunction with the optional xenon lights. This technology allows the headlights to follow the line of upcoming corners to ensure maximum illumination of the road surface. The steering angle, yaw rate and speed of the car are all taken into account in determining the beam angle of the headlights. In addition, customers can now specify an automatic dimming function not only for the rear-view mirror but for the exterior mirrors as well.

Performance tires standard on all MINIs

The MINI Cooper comes standard with 15-inch light-alloy rims and 175/65 R 15 performance tires. The MINI Cooper S, in turn, is equipped with 16-inch light-alloy rims and 195/65 R 16 runflat tires. Even larger 17-inch rims running on 205/45 R 17 tires are available as an option.

The MINI Cooper S models boast run flat tires as yet another standard feature, modified in this case to reflect the suspension set-up of the MINI. Thanks to their failsafe running characteristics, these tires allow the driver to go on motoring even when a tire is completely flat, covering a distance of up to 90 miles at a maximum speed of 50 mph.

And every 2013 MINI is equipped with a Tire Pressure Monitoring system (TPM) that permanently monitors air pressure and informs the driver in the event of an emergency.

Entertainment and Navigation system

The new audio and navigation systems and optional integration platforms for external music players and mobile phones all offer top-class entertainment and communications capability. All three of the radio system options include an MP3-compatible CD player and AUX IN connection to hook up external music players with the on-board audio system. Even the standard-fitted MINI CD radio comes with six loudspeakers. The radio now boasts newly designed controls, and the radio's volume control and station selector are now positioned at the same level.

The MINI Connected and MINI Connected with Navigation systems come with a 6.5-inch high-resolution display in the Center Speedo and a standard Bluetooth hands-free facility with USB audio interface. The maps for the navigation systems are stored on an on-board flash memory device and can be updated via a USB interface. The map display can be viewed in a day and night mode.

In conjunction with the Bluetooth mobile phone preparation with USB audio interface, which also includes a snap-in adapter in the center console with charging function and a roof aerial, both the MINI Connected and MINI Connected with Navigation system allow the use of add-on functions supported by a connected mobile device.

These include audio streaming via Bluetooth, album cover artwork display on the on-board monitor, Web Radio, and innovative office functions. For example, caller lists stored on a mobile phone and business cards from contacts can be viewed on the on-board monitor. In addition, the optional voice output function allows calendar entries recorded in a smartphone to be read out.

2013 MINI Hardtop

2013 Cooper $20,400 $20,200 (2012)

2013 Cooper S $24,000 $23,800 (2012)

2013 John Cooper Works $30,800 $30,600 (2012)

Accessories - Unique Features for the Individualist

Supplementing the car's standard equipment as well as the options offered by the factory, the new MINI may be further personalized through a wide range of Genuine MINI Accessories. All of these items provide a perfect match for the 2013 MINI and meet the quality and safety standards of the BMW Group.

By tradition, special roof graphics and mirror caps play an important role in customizing the MINI. The 2013 MINI offers more than 100 options for roof graphics, including the Union Jack, Checkered Flag and the letters "MINI." Mirror caps and door handle trim with the Union Jack and Checkered Flag motifs highlight the British heritage and sporting DNA of the MINI.

And to take customization to the next level, in 2013 MINI will now offer customers the option to create their own graphics for their vehicle's "A" panel, roof, side panel, interior and stripes.

Sporting highlights from John Cooper Works Tuning

The 2013 MINI is also available with exterior components from the John Cooper Works Tuning Range made by hand from carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic. These include panels for the front air scoop, the exterior mirrors, and the grab handle on the tailgate.

Components from John Cooper Works provide the latest road-going MINI with classic motorsport technology. The wide range of Works Accessories named after the legendary Formula 1 car maker and MINI tuner includes enhancements like the 12.4-inch, cross-drilled front-brake discs for the MINI Cooper S. To match these larger brakes, John Cooper Works offers 18-inch double-spoke light-alloy wheels, the largest wheels approved for MINI (7J x 18), mounting 205/40X18 low-profile, tires (and featuring runflat technology). The Dealer installed John Cooper Works Tuning Kit raises the output of the MINI Cooper S to 195 hp and the maximum torque to 184 lb-ft (with the over boost function temporary to 200 lb-ft). This kit is available for the manual transmission models and later, automatic transmission models.

Another highlight of the John Cooper Works accessory line is the Aerodynamic Kit with the front and rear air dam, an all-black hood grille and new side skirts, providing a sporty and aggressive look to the MINI Cooper and MINI Cooper S. This aero kit can also be supplemented by two roof spoilers: The John Cooper Works roof spoiler with a carbon surface approved for both the MINI Cooper S and MINI Cooper; and the single-piece roof spoiler finished on request in body color. The youthful appearance of the package is enhanced by multi-spoke 17-inch light-alloy wheels carrying 205/45X17 tires.

Production - Tradition and Quality, Made in England

The modern MINI's sales success is mirrored by its production triumph. The original plan launched in 2000 called for an annual output of 100,000 units, but demand by 2005 had already doubled that number.

Growth of this magnitude demanded the utmost performance and great flexibility on the part of the production plants as well as the suppliers. To facilitate this, the new generation of MINI Hardtop, Convertible and Clubman are built by three British plants of the BMW Group production network in Oxford, Swindon, and Hams Hall. These three plants form a closely-knit production system, with a highly integrated structure. Together, all three plants currently employ some 5,700 associates, with a maximum production capacity of up to 240,000 MINIs a year.

The three plants comply with the production and quality standards of the BMW Group and are certified for environmental management to ISO 14001. Together with the BMW Research and Innovation Center (FIZ) in Munich, Germany, the Quality and Engineering Center (QEC) in Oxford played a decisive role in the ongoing technical development of the MINI. And now the QEC consistently monitors production quality by means of advanced and sophisticated inspection methods.

Flexible, customer-oriented production

The Mobile Standard Production Cells (Mobi-Cells) developed by the BMW Group, a significant innovation employed in the 15,000-square-meter body shop, increase production flexibly and quickly whenever required. This makes production of the new MINI highly flexible, reflecting the standards of the BMW Group's Customer-Oriented Sales and Production Process (KOVP). This flexibility allows the customer to change the configuration of his or her car up to six days prior to the start of assembly, despite a choice of more than 370 features and options in the interior, more than 300 variants on the exterior, and the approximately 2,000 components which go into every MINI.

Strict quality standards also applied to suppliers

A number of suppliers have located in the vicinity of the BMW Group Plants in Oxford, Swindon, and Hams Hall, creating hundreds of jobs in the region. Such close contact with manufacturers of components including seats and cockpit modules guarantees optimum, on-time management of production processes.

MINI in the US

MINI is an independent brand of the BMW Group. In the United States, MINI USA operates as a business unit of BMW of North America, LLC, located in Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey and includes the marketing and sales organizations for the MINI brand. The MINI USA sales organization is represented in the U.S. through a network of 115 MINI passenger car dealers in 38 states. MINI USA began selling vehicles in the U.S. in 2002 with the introduction of the MINI Cooper and MINI Cooper S Hardtops. Since then, the MINI Brand in the U.S. has grown to encompass a model range of six unique vehicles.

Information about BMW Group products is available to consumers via the Internet at: www.bmwgroupna.com