MINI – All-new for 2014

Next year will see the introduction of the all-new, next-generation MINI Hatch. Like the previous versions, the new 2014 MINI looks back to the original for inspiration. It features significant improvements in technology, engine efficiency and power delivery, driving dynamics, quality and personalisation. Inside, the new MINI is quieter than the outgoing model, with improvements to acoustic refinement inside the cabin.

The body of the new MINI is 3,821mm long (MINI Cooper S is 3,850mm), 1,727mm wide and 1,414mm tall. This makes it 98mm longer, 44mm wider and 7mm taller than its predecessor. The wheelbase has been extended by 28mm, while the track width has been enlarged at the front by 42mm and at the rear by 34mm.

The new MINI is the first car in its segment to offer the option of LED headlamps for both dipped and main beam. They are surrounded by an LED daylight driving ring, the lower section of which reaches down to the white turn indicators. The rear light clusters also feature an all-LED design.

The new MINI Hatch features a range of three entirely new engines, each featuring MINI TwinPower Turbo Technology to increase driving fun and improve environmental efficiency. The trio all offer improved performance figures, with maximum power across all three variants produced lower down the rev range, while fuel consumption and emission levels have been reduced by as much as 27 per cent when compared to their predecessor models. All meet the stringent EU6 exhaust emissions criteria.

The new MINI Cooper Hatch has a three-cylinder petrol engine with a peak output of 134bhp. The new MINI Cooper S Hatch is powered by a four-cylinder petrol engine which develops 189bhp. The new MINI Cooper D Hatch comes with a three-cylinder diesel engine with an output of 114bhp. For fuel efficiency this latter model is the undoubted star performer, with average combined economy of 80.7mpg using the EU test cycle. In the US the engine choices are limited to the two gasoline units.

A six-speed manual transmission is standard featuring rev matching on downward shifts and a six-speed automatic transmission is available as an option on each engine.

The suspension in the new MINI has been extensively revised. A new single-joint spring strut axle at the front and a multi-link axle at the rear. 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. These improvements are aimed at intensifying the MINI’s handling responses, better known as that famous ‘go-kart’ feeling.

Also new to the MINI is Variable Damper Control. Available as an option, it presents drivers with the choice of two distinct set-ups, a more comfort-oriented response or a more sporty and firm one.