The success of the Mini for BMW is based on the cult status of the British original. Retro is of the essence. So, how does BMW move the car forward while keeping an eye on the past. Our spy photographs of the next Cooper give some of the answers.
The new Mini will go on sale in early 2007, but, as you can see, it won't be much different from today's car. The modifications are partly necessary from a safety point of view, and partly to ensure its success continues for another decade or so.
Exterior modifications are mainly up front: the bonnet is higher to cover the hubs of the wiper arms. This will meet future safety regulations on protection for pedestrians in crashes.
The round headlights remain unchanged but, because of the bigger and more upright grille, the whole front appears a bit more adult.
Overall dimensions will be just about the same, although the interior will grow just a little here and there. The quality of materials used for cockpit and seats is said to be more upmarket. The unique dashboard layout, however, won't be changed much.
Under the bonnet, BMW gets more radical. The old Chrysler-born two-valve units will be replaced by a brand-new top-modern engine family developed in co-operation with PSA (Citroën, Peugeot). These will be four-valve petrol engines with common-rail direct injection, built in BMW's engine works in Britain.
Three variants, all with 1.6 litres, are planned: a naturally-aspirated 115-bhp unit for the Mini One, plus two turbo-charged variants with 143 bhp (Cooper) and 170 bhp (Cooper S). A Mini Works (with 230 bhp) will be following at a later date.
-Automedia