The iconic MINI in all its generations, being a 2-door hatch may lack street recognition and can easily be labeled as a girl’s car. Not until now, as with the recent ultra-practical and gorgeous new 4-door Countryman, shows what a MINI is now capable of. Taking the MINI to a whole new level is their new MINI Coupe.
Please be reminded the following White/Red MINI Coupe pictures depict the JCW version. Not the MINI Cooper S Coupe as currently sold by BMW Group Malaysia.
This new chopped-top MINI wearing a cap backwards, with an actual ass is really something else.
We should know, as we have an on-going project 2002 R53 MINI Cooper S, that we deemed as somewhat a little-monster, bordering on being cute.
The 2012 MINI Coupe however, is like Betty Boop. Sexy and bodacious. Did I mention it is also MINI’s first strict 2-seater?. And it’s finally here in Malaysia.
Facts
- Zerotohundred: 7.1 seconds
- Top Speed: 224km/h
- Engine: 1.6L turbocharged 4-cylinder, direct injection
- Power: 184bhp / 5,500 rpm
- Torque 240nm
- Weight: 1169kg
- Fuel: 6.7L / 100km
- Wheels: –
- Tyres –
- Price: RM249,888
Firsts
- Strict 2 seater only MINI
- Active Rear Spoiler that pops-out at 80km/h
- New Suspension for unique weight distribution
Today, BMW Group Malaysia unveiled the MINI Coupe at their brand new MINI Glenmarie Showroom, that accommodates the expanded range of the MINI line-up that now has 5 different models.
The MINI Coupe, a retro-modern idea of a super compact sports car is the first model in the NEW MINI generation to carry the iconic British badge. The MINI has always been a go-kart experience for the road no other compact car could replicate. Now it further limits the experience to only 2. Not that the MINI Cooper was ever a 4-occupant friendly hatch anyway.
222 MINIs were sold by BMW Group Malaysia in 2010 and has now surpassed that figure by 3 to 225 in 2011, as of September 2011. The MINI Coupe would certainly contribute to the company’s record year, next year. Providing a cheeky alternative for the young at hearts in the market for a sports coupe.
The MINI Coupe launch today also coincides with the official launch of the BMW Glenmarie’s MINI Showroom, being the third MINI Showroom in Malaysia. At 3,300sq ft, It is also the largest MINI Showroom in the country complete with a wide range of MINI Merchandise and Service Advisor counter.
The MINI Coupe will be available from October 22nd onwards and only in the turbocharged form of the MINI Cooper S 1.6 engine. The Turboed 1.6 engine is a perfected powerplant for the MINI S range and has variable valve technology, twin scroll turbo and petrol direct injection producing 184bhp at 5,500 rpm. It is also the world’s most efficient engine in it’s 1.6 class, consuming 6.7 litres per 100km.
The MINI Coupe does Zerotohundred in 7.1 seconds and clocks a maximum of 224km/h and retains the pin-point sharp steering and flat go-kart driving experience. It is also coupled to a clever 6-speed automatic transmission further ensuring its torque and power efficiency.
New to the MINI Coupe is its new suspension setup designed specially for its unique weight balance. Front MacPherson struts and multi-link rear suspension also transfers the iconic MINI handling to the Coupe.
There’s also an active rear spoiler, available first to the MINI Coupe is integrated into the boot lid that pops up at 80km/h, aerodynamically increasing the coupe’s stability and grip by reducing rear-end lift.
Despite the low physical appearance of the rood, in the cockpit, the MINI Coupe has oval recesses in the roof liner to create more headroom for taller drivers. It also retains the large central speedo and media screen while the tachometer remains behind the steering wheel.
No rear seats means more of other features. There’s an adaptable 290 litre boot that has a high-through loading made possible with a high opening tailgate.
You have 8 colours to choose from including, Chilli Red, Pepper White, Spice Orange, Midnight Black, British Racing Green II, Eclipse Grey, Lightning Blue and White Silver. The car’s roof is painted as standard in a contrasting colour which customers can select from Jet Black or Pure Silver. The colours of the upholstery, meanwhile is Carbon Black.
