2012 MINI Cooper Preview

Since 2001 the brand revival under BMW ownership, Mini has introduced the idea of ​​a premium subcompact car to the American shopper in a sporty, luxurious, well-built package. Promising go-kart handling as part of its inherent quality, has developed its Mini Cooper line-up consists of a hardtop coupe, convertible and long wheelbase Clubman.

Each mini version sold today includes a choice of three basic models: Standard, S and John Cooper Works (JCW). As expected, each successive model gets more standard equipment, while also gaining more power and a more sporting suspension tuning condition. The standard Cooper Clubman and get a naturally aspirated 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine with 121 horsepower, while the S and JCW treatments offer a turbocharged version of that engine and a sportier suspension setup, among other revisions.

Each Mini Cooper model has "two plus two" seating, with a smaller rear for mounting up to four people in the car. With the Clubman, there is still rear-hinged third door on the passenger side to ensure easier entry and exit, making it much easier for adults at the back entrance.

Body styles: hatchback, convertible

Engines: 1.6-liter inline-4, 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-4

Transmissions: six-speed manual, six-speed automatic

Models: Standard, S John Cooper Works (Cooper and Clubman)

A new customization program called Mini Yours is now available for the Mini Cooper and Clubman. Leading the way for the customization options available instrument panel is covered with stitched two-tone leather, a two-tone leather steering wheel, exclusive 17-inch wheels, exterior mirror caps on the pattern after soda caps, leather seating surfaces and unique lounge with pinstriping and a soda cap inspired design in the head. Cosmopolitan mats will be standard in all U.S. Mini Coopers, and JCW aero kit cars have a standard. Finally, if you're lucky enough to be a lot of money, a $ 52,000 version of the Mini Cooper come from U.S. shores later this year. The limited production Mini Cooper Inspired by Goodwood includes materials from Rolls-Royce. Only 140 his head.

The Mini has neat, cute looks good with a clear link to the heritage of the car. The coupe can take quite an aggressive look with a single factory option or the optional JCW trim package. Silver Clubman behind the trim around the taillights and door frames, in addition to the side-hinged rear doors, adds a retro look for an already very retro-inspired car.

Wearing a cheeky, retro look of the interior materials are good enough for the premium rate. But many of the chrome switchgear, large tachometer driver, and speedometer in the center console sacrifices function for form. Front seats are comfortable, but do not expect the same level of space on the back. The options include a cold-weather package, premium package with dual-pane sunroof, and the convenience package with many features that will start up with the keys in your pocket. Mini offers a range of luxury options often found on the BMW's - with BMW-like prices on many of them.

On the way, the standard Cooper features vivid, if not rapid, acceleration and quick steering that the impression of a big go-kart does. The Cooper S is even greater, with its turbocharged engine and stiffer suspension. Power in the Cooper S comes through a 181-horsepower turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine. Mind you, the Cooper is relatively strong to begin with and in harmony 'S', can be very hard on bad pavement. The longer Clubman offers the most composed, comfortable ride of the group. JCW car put it all into 11 with a 208-horsepower version of the same 1.6-liter turbo engine and aerodynamic improvements.

All Mini Cooper Clubman, and convertible models are equipped with standard front, side and curtain airbags. The Mini Convertible features front and side airbags. Stability control and traction control are standard in all Minis.

Mini Cooper, manual transmission: 28 mpg city/37 mpg highway

Mini Cooper, automatic transmission: 25 mpg highway city/33mpg

Mini Cooper Clubman, manual transmission: 28 mpg city/36 mpg highway

Mini Cooper Clubman, automatic transmission: 25 mpg city/33 mpg highway

Mini Cooper Cabrio, manual transmission: 28 mpg city/36 mpg highway,

Mini Cooper Convertible, automatic transmission: 25 mpg city/33 mpg highway

Mini Cooper S and Convertible, Mini Cooper S Clubman Mini Cooper S, manual transmission: 26 mpg city / 34 mpg highway

Mini Cooper S Mini Cooper S Convertible, MINI Cooper Clubman S, automatic transmission: 24 mpg city/32 mpg highway

John Cooper Works (Cooper, Clubman): 25 mpg city/33 mpg highway