The new Mini Cooper 2014 model has been formally unveiled at the Los Angeles Motor Show, BMW's third-generation super-mini - and it comes with the promise of increased usability and evolutionary improvements.
Despite the new-generation Minis having grown considerably since the original model was introduced back in 1959, leading to the new classification of super-mini, the still compact footprint of the vehicles has always led to sacrifices in cargo capacity. That's something the company claims to have changed this time around: an increase of 44mm in width and 98mm in length plus a longer wheelbase has given the vehicle enough room to add an additional 51 litres in boot volume without changing the overall appearance of the vehicle too dramatically.
Under the bonnet, the Mini Cooper 2014 model will feature a 1.5-litre 136bhp three-cylinder turbo petrol engine offering improved performance over the outgoing model. A diesel variant, the Mini Cooper D 2014, is also confirmed. Buyers of either model will be able to pick from a manual, auto or 'sports auto' gearbox.
Evolution, rather than revolution, is the watchword with the 2014 model year Minis: the Mini Cooper includes technology borrowed from BMW's own-brand line-up including a flat-screen display with colour-changing context-sensitive surround replacing the central speedometer, larger headlights with integrated LED running lights that surround the main clusters in a ring, and a new infotainment control system.
This control system, modelled on BMW's iDrive, will tie in to various optional upgrades at launch include reversing cameras, real-time traffic information and a new service dubbed Mini Connected XL which ties together weather forecasts and event listings with traditional satellite navigation functionality.
Production of the Mini Cooper begins later this week, with a view to hitting roads in the UK in March 2014 with prices starting at £15,300 - a £400 premium over the equivalent model in the current line-up.
Despite the new-generation Minis having grown considerably since the original model was introduced back in 1959, leading to the new classification of super-mini, the still compact footprint of the vehicles has always led to sacrifices in cargo capacity. That's something the company claims to have changed this time around: an increase of 44mm in width and 98mm in length plus a longer wheelbase has given the vehicle enough room to add an additional 51 litres in boot volume without changing the overall appearance of the vehicle too dramatically.
Under the bonnet, the Mini Cooper 2014 model will feature a 1.5-litre 136bhp three-cylinder turbo petrol engine offering improved performance over the outgoing model. A diesel variant, the Mini Cooper D 2014, is also confirmed. Buyers of either model will be able to pick from a manual, auto or 'sports auto' gearbox.
Evolution, rather than revolution, is the watchword with the 2014 model year Minis: the Mini Cooper includes technology borrowed from BMW's own-brand line-up including a flat-screen display with colour-changing context-sensitive surround replacing the central speedometer, larger headlights with integrated LED running lights that surround the main clusters in a ring, and a new infotainment control system.
This control system, modelled on BMW's iDrive, will tie in to various optional upgrades at launch include reversing cameras, real-time traffic information and a new service dubbed Mini Connected XL which ties together weather forecasts and event listings with traditional satellite navigation functionality.
Production of the Mini Cooper begins later this week, with a view to hitting roads in the UK in March 2014 with prices starting at £15,300 - a £400 premium over the equivalent model in the current line-up.
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