Mini has disclosed extensive details about its new model, which will be launched on November 18.
The third generation of the Mini will be offered with a three-cylinder, 1.5-liter gasoline engine developing 134 bhp and 162 lb-ft (170 lb-ft with overboost) from as low as 1,250 rpm and a larger 2.0-liter 4-cylinder with 189 bhp and 206 lb-ft (221 lb-ft with overboost). Mini says other gasoline engines will follow, including a more powerful unit for the S and JCW versions.
As for diesels, the all-new MINI will be available upon launch with a direct-injection, common-rail 1.5-liter outputting 114 bhp and 199 lb-ft. Compared to the previous 1.6-liter the new engine is 7 percent more economical and will be mated to new manual and automatic transmissions, just like the other engines.
The new Mini will feature as standard an active hood which is automatically raised in case of a pedestrian collision at speeds between 12 mph and 34 mph. Once the hood is raised it creates a yielding crumple zone that absorbs impact energy and provides extra protection to the unfortunate pedestrian.
Although the car's size will grow, Mini says the weight has been educed, thanks to a more extensive use of high-strength steels. The new electronic power steering system will "promote agility, driving safety and comfort" while the braking system is lighter and has better friction.
It's not just innovation under the bonnet. New manual gearboxes have a rev-match function like on Nissan's 370Z, blipping the revs to mimic race-car heel'n'toe gearchanges. The new 2014 Mini should ride well, too. Electrically adjusted dampers are available for first time - offering drivers two settings: Sport or Comfort.
Mini has stuck with the tried-and-tested suspension set-up of a multi-link rear axle - unusual in this class, and one of the key reasons why this hatchback has historically set the benchmark for sporting compact hatchbacks.
The 2014 Mini will be officially presented on November 18 at the firm's factory in Oxford, United Kingdom.––Paul Duchene
