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Not too long ago some spy shots of the all new 2014 Mini Cooper were released. Well, the time for spying is over as the third generation Mini was officially launched today.
BMW revealed the all new Mini, and while it still looks the same and features everything you’d expect from the car, it has been upgraded some what on the inside – including some brand spanking new technology to go along with it.
Firstly, the 2014 Mini is quite a bit bigger than its predecessors. It is 98mm longer, 44mm wider, 7mm taller and has a 28mm longer wheelbase which accommodates for a wider track in the front and rear.
However, it is the engine that most people – including BMW – seems to be most excited about. This third generation Mini will be available in 3-cylinder engines for the first time ever. Also, another hook for both Mini and BMW, is that the new Mini launches with three new engines from BMW’s all new ‘Efficient Dynamic’ engines.
Apparently, these new engines will reduce fuel consumption and emission by as much as 27%.
Engine wise, the standard Mini Cooper will produce 134horsepower through a 1.5 liter, 3-cylinder engine.
The Diesel version, the Cooper D, will produce 144horsepower through a 1.5 liter, 3-cylinder engine. And finally, for a bit more power, the Cooper S will produce 189horsepower through a 2.0 liter, 4-pot petrol engine.
All of the new Mini’s will be available in either a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission.
Some fancy tech items include cruise control and (our favourite) an on-board SIM card that will automatically phone emergency services if you were to come in an accident. Now that’s quite clever.
Just as the Mini’s before, the 2014 model will be just as customizable.
New decorative trims will be available for the roof, the bonnet, exterior mirrors, seat upholstery and interior surfaces.
Pricing for the marvelous new Mini start at £15,300 for the Cooper, rising to £18,650 for the Cooper S. Or, for you and me, R249,015 to R303,538. However, Mini says that this price will include extra’s like an on-board computer, front fog lights and Bluetooth.
