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Sunday, May 30, 2010

Mini gets mini revamp

Details of the 2011 Mini range have been announced. Visually, the changes aren’t that radical, the main alterations being revised bumpers, LED lights at the rear, five new colours and five new alloy wheel designs.





On the inside the centre console, steering wheel and air conditioning and audio controls have all been modified to improve the quality feel and work better ergonomically. Other changes include new upholstery and fascia trim choices. DAB radio is now standard on all models across the range, except for the entry-level Mini First.



The big news though is under the bonnet. Following the introduction of new petrol engines back in March, it’s now the turn of the diesels. Available as either a Cooper D with 110 bhp (82 kW / 112 PS) or One D with 88 bhp (66 kW / 90 PS), the new diesel engines feature light weight aluminium construction, common rail direct injection and turbochargers with variable turbine geometry.



Amazingly, both the Cooper D Hatch and One D Hatch both achieve 74.3 mpg (3.8 l/100km) on the combined cycle, while producing just 99 g/km of CO2. That means they’ll be eligible for the 100% Greener Vehicle Discount, if proposed changes to the London Congestion Charge are approved. Adding to their green credentials is the standard fitment of a diesel particulate filter and oxidation catalyst.



The 110 bhp unit will also feature in the Cooper D Convertible, the first time ever that a Mini soft top has been available with diesel power. Meanwhile, the Clubman line-up will include the One D and Cooper D. However, it’s worth noting that only the Hatch achieves sub-100 g/km CO2 emissions:










Mini 0-62 mph Top Speed mph Combined mpg CO2 g/km
One D Hatch 11.4 115 74.3 99
Cooper D Hatch 9.7 123 74.3 99
One D Clubman 11.8 114 72.4 103
Cooper D Clubman 10.2 123 72.4 103
Cooper D Convertible 10.3 121 70.6 105


The 2011 Mini range will be go on sale this September, which also sees the launch of the new Mini Countryman. Prices have yet to be confirmed.