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Avenue of the Giants Weekend Run - Sat. March 23, 2024

Saturday will be a very full day of cruising from Novato up through the Avenue of the Giants and ending at Eel River Brewing in Fortuna. Sun...

Turn It Up!

DPCCars features this MINI Clubman S by Mac Audio.  Check ot the photo gallery. In addition to exterior design mods and upgrades, the Mac MINI:
. . . Programmable computerized power amps (3 pcs.) with digital sound processor and Mac Audio Reference 2.1 DSP to feed the subwoofer and to “drive” the front and rear speaker systems. Apropos loudspeakers – here are Mac Audio Star X 2.16 in action, each two in front and in rear. The powerful performing of deep frequencies is being made by two Mac Audio STX 12 Reference subwoofers in the same time. The complicated sound system is commanded by Audiovox VXE 7020 NAV head unit, the music comes from the Audiovox DAB+100 module or from the incorporated into the speedometer iPod Nano. In order to prevent to damage the precious Showcar when driving backward, there has been integrated a rear view camera into the Audiovox RVC 1.

Of course, the system demands high quality wiring and reliable power supply. In this case, the decision was made in favor of Stinger Power cables and a supplementary SP 1000 battery and two Mac Audio Cap 1.2 Farad condensers – this way, voltage peaks at maximal jumps of level and dynamics can be cut in a confident way. The necessary car insulation is assured by means of Dynamat Xtreme. Such a voluminous installation demands diverse special car conversions, for that, driver and passengers can intensively feel the mighty sound backdrop inside the Mini Clubman S. . . . .

Al-Attiyah and MINI ALL4 Racing Win The Italian Baja

According to love:mini:
In the Italian Baja, the MINI ALL4 Racing built by X-raid secured its fifth consecutive triumph, with Nasser Al-Attiyah and his navigator Mathieu Baumel crossing the finish line of the three-day event as the winners. At the end of the five special stages and a total distance of some 350 kilometres, the driver from Qatar clinched the win with a 1:24-minute lead over the second-placed driver and closed his gap to the FIA Cross Country Rally World Cup leader by 14 points.

2001- August 2006 R50 MINI Buyback Program

The Daily Toggle reports the buyback program is because:
. . . MINI wants to reuse the R50 chassis. The move is unprecedented, or as MINI executives keep insisting, NOT NORMAL. MINI plans to reuse old R50 chassis as the platform of a new model.
According to the article:
BMW board member Dr. Otto von Jürgens-Übermorgen presented the program in a press conference today [6/23/2015]. He was short on details.

“MINI will be building the much-anticipated MINI Rocketman using the chassis of used R50 MINI Coopers. The production car will be called the MINI Minor 50 in homage to the R50s sacrificed to build it. While it won’t be as small as the original Rocketman Concept vehicle, we found MINI fans were just as happy to have a MINI as small as the first Cooper again.”

Woman's Massive Boobs Save Her Life In A Crash With A MINI

The Sun reports, in part:
A CURVY mum survived a horror car smash – thanks to her gigantic 38JJ boobs.

Sarah Foster, 28, bounced safely off the windscreen when a Mini Cooper ploughed into her as she smoked a fag in a lay-by.
 
Her massive boobs smashed the windscreen but she escaped without a single broken bone. . . .
According to the article they acted as airbags. Go to the article for commentary and a video interview with Sarah.

The New MINI AWD JCW Clubman?

MotoringFile asks whether this spied Clubman is a new AWD JCW. Based on its information it is a matter of when not whether this version will be released.

What Do You Think Of MINI's New Logo?

MINI revealed a new look logo as it realigns its product and brand strategy. BMWBlog discusses the new logo and re-branding.  What do you think of the new logo?

More Official 2016 MINI Clubman Videos



. . . and the Germans get:



[Source: via MotoringFile]

PistonHeads Drives The New MINI Cooper S JCW

PistonHeads drove a new automatic MINI Cooper S and decides:
Push harder and the Mini is still agile and adjustable and as willing as ever to pivot around the driver's hips when you lift off. But even that can't quite make us love the JCW - not as an automatic anyway.

But will the manual JCW be better than the Ford Fiesta ST or the Peugeot 208 GTI 30th? Only time will tell. It didn't help the heavily specced cars we drove all cost £30,000-plus, pushing it right into Golf R territory. But it's promising we're left itching to drive the manual. Right now the fastest Mini ever is shaping up to be one of the best.

2016 Dakar Rally MINI Driver Hunt To Be At Goodwood

According to The Telegraph:
Rally driver Harry Hunt is one of the youngest entrants for the 2016 Dakar Rally, in which he will drive a Mini. He'll also be appearing at the Goodwood Festival of Speed on June 26-28.

Your 2002-03 MINI's Oil Pressure Warning Light On Despite A Proper Oil Level?

Tire Business reports:
Some 2002-03 Cooper and Cooper S models may turn on the oil pressure warning light even though the crankcase is filled to the proper level. If a check with a manual gauge shows that the oil pressure is okay, go to the starter motor because there’s a good chance its heat shield has chafed through the engine harness, creating a short in the pressure switch circuit. Repairing or replacing the harness and installing a new-design heat shield, part No. 12411495806, should eliminate further trouble.

The MINI JCW Kits Examined

The Daily Toggle has started a series of articles on the many different MINI JCW Kits. In Part 1 it looks at the original John Cooper Works Tuning Kit for the MINI Cooper (R50).

Taking Mom For A Ride


[Source: between 10 and 5]

autobytel Reviews The 2015 MINI Countryman

Autobytel let's go of expectations:
Now here, we have to admit, when we first heard MINI was planning a crossover SUV-ish version of the Cooper, we were somewhat less than impressed. In fact, we pigeonholed it as one more example of jumping on a bandwagon. And honestly, as predisposed as we were to the idea of what a crossover SUV should be, when we saw it, we were even less impressed.

Which is why prejudice has no place in this world.

Turns out the Cooper Countryman is a pretty neat little car.

New MINI Gentleman's Collection Fashion Accessories Released

The Newswheel has pictures of the new Clubman inspired collection:
The automaker has collaborated with six Italian artists to create The MINI Gentleman’s Collection—a line of six accessories designed to help you stand out in the crowd.

Can Electric MINIs Be Far Behind?

Check out this Press Release from BMW Group PressClub United Kingdom:
MINI Plant Oxford showcases pioneering street lighting system with integrated electric vehicle charging 
MINI Plant Oxford is showcasing a high-efficiency street lighting system that doubles as a charging station for electric vehicles (EVs) during the city’s second Low Carbon Oxford Week. Known as Light & Charge and demonstrated for the first time in the UK, this innovative system is the outcome of a pilot project developed by the BMW Group and is a state-of-the-art LED street light that combines energy-efficient lighting with affordable EV charging. 
Allowing cities to significantly reduce energy consumption, its integrated charge point also provides a cost-effective and simple solution which can be grafted straight onto the existing local authority street lighting infrastructure, substantially increasing the number of public charging stations. EV charging stations can be set up at any location where suitable parking is available, simply by replacing conventional street lights with Light & Charge systems. 
“Light & Charge is a simple and innovative solution which aims to integrate a charging station network into the urban landscape and this is essential if we want to see more electric vehicles on the road in our cities in the future. I’m delighted that the MINI plant is the first location in the UK to showcase BMW Group’s technological expertise not only in developing electric vehicles but also as part of a much wider commitment to electric mobility,” said Frank Bachmann, Managing Director, MINI Plant Oxford.
Oxfordshire County Council and Oxford City Council are currently working in partnership to increase the uptake of ultra-low emission vehicles such as electric cars as part of their bid for funding from the Office of Low Emission Vehicles, Go Ultra Low City Scheme.
 
Commenting on the new innovation, representatives from Oxfordshire County Council and Oxford City Council said: 
“We’re pleased that we have the opportunity to take a look at this innovative new technology as part of Low Carbon Oxford week. Combining energy-efficient street lighting with a re-charging station for electric vehicles is a neat solution to the problems of on-street charging stations.” 
With its modular LED design, the Light & Charge street light is much more energy-efficient than conventional street lighting and provides more effective illumination. It can be installed anywhere and its modular design can to be tailored to different locations. Up to four LED modules can be used to provide night-time lighting on main roads, while one or two modules are sufficient to provide lighting on side streets and in residential areas. As is already the case with vehicle headlights, LED technology allows more targeted light distribution with highly uni­form illumination to increase road safety and is optimised for minimum glare and light pollution. Through intelligent control electronics, the street light can adjust itself to its environment and yields energy savings by enabling the reduction of light output late at night and whenever no one is around. 
The EV charging cable connects to a standard connector on the Light & Charge street light and the integrated control panel allows drivers to start charging with the swipe of a card regardless of vehicle model. . . . .

Hey, MINI Clubman! Your Barn Door Is Open!

autoevolution has spy photos of the 2016 MINI Clubman with its doors open and discusses what it sees.

"This Way Is My Way" 2016 MINI Clubman (Indirect) Teaser

Grab the popcorn! Under the slogan “This Way My Way”, New York artist Andre Saraiva becomes an ambassador for the Clubman F54 in this video extolling the MINI Clubman's virtues.

What Will A 2016 MINI Cost?

MotoringFile has the official skivvy from MINI USA, but here's the executive summary:

  • No price changes(!)
  • Cooper Hardtop is now a SULEV thanks to technical updates to the three-cylinder
  • New special edition Park Lane package for the Countryman
  • Hardtop’s Sport Package now includes dynamic damper control
  • In several place piano black trim replaces silver trim for the Cooper

2016 MINI Clubman Teased To Be Unveiled Next Week

According to Malaysia's PaulTan.org MINI released this teaser image of the 2016 MINI Clubman in advance of a press event at the end of this month. This may portend a reveal of the final MINI Clubman design before its scheduled debut at September's Frankfurt, Germany Motor Show.

Jalopnik Loves The Exhaust Note Of The 2016 MCS JCW

Jalopnik raves about the burble in the XCar video and reasons:
So how’s the suspension? “A little bit tough,” Alex Goy says here. “A touch bumpy and uncomfortable... You have to commit to this car.”

That sounds appropriate to me. Was anyone hoping for a soft, cushy Mini JCW? Didn’t think so.

Tony Hawk's 2015 MINI Cooper Countryman Commercial

Top Gear's First Drive Of A Third Generation JCW

BBC's Top Gear takes a third generation MINI John Cooper Works for a spin and notes about the engine:
It's a terrific engine. First and lasting impression comes from the noise, a keen baritone that goads you when you're accelerating but dies away at a cruise. You're not bothered by lag, but the red-line is a disappointingly low 6500rpm - not that you'll see that on the idiotically tiny rev-counter. That's why you need the exhaust noise, so your ears can gauge the rpm. Even so, you'll probably be shifting up early because the mid-rev torque is so generous.

CarPlay Goes Wireless So MINI Connected Is Doomed?

MotoringFile reports CarPlay, a standard developed by Apple to allow devices running iOS to function with built-in display units of automobile dashboards will, in a pending i0S 9 update, become wireless and compatible with a variety of screens. The site's contacts at MINI:
. . . repeatedly told us that CarPlay is being investigated but we don’t know if it will ever become available. Since BMW competitors (i.e. Mercedes, VW Group) are adopting the system, it’s safe to say that the BMW Group will get there eventually. After investing so much time and resources developing iDrive and MINI Connected, potentially letting these systems go is a tough pill to swallow.
Here is the CarPlay announcement from WWDC 2015 -

Video Review: 2015 Mini Connected Infotainment and Navigation System



[Source: Alex on Autos]

Proof You Can Do A Burnout In A MINI Cooper

You just need a big enough edge.


[Source: via POWERNATION TV]

A Chance To Win A MINI

Do you like the Diablo Valley? Need to book 50 hotel rooms in Concord or want to expound upon the virtues of the Diablo Valley? Then, starting July 1, 2015, you can enter the Diablo Valley Raffle with a chance to win a new MINI.


The 2016 MINI Clubman

MotoringFile summarizes "Everything You Need To Know" about the 2016 MINI Clubman, with such gems as:
While the entire car is wider (noticeably so), the nose from the bumper up looks to be very similar to that of the F56. Good news for those critical of the F56 front bumper design, the F54 Clubman tones down that design creating something much more subtle while achieving the same aero function. Speaking of aero the Clubman will also feature the introduction of a patented BMW aero technology called “Air Curtain.” Together with the “Air Breather” the system reduces drag on the bodyshell in a very simple, but extremely effective way. . . . .

Did You Hear That?

AutoGuide.com inventories ten sounds your car makes and helps you pinpoint what is wrong.

Tribute Paid To Constantine Issigonis

According to TimesOfMalta.com, fifty Mini enthusiasts gathered with their classic cars on the 92nd anniversary of the death of Constantine Issigonis, the father of the original designer of the vehicle, whose grave was discovered this year by Pablo Vassallo, president of the Malta Mini Owners Club.

Whose Going To Japan In July?

[Source: Bond Mini Diary]

We Live In A Sea Of Mediocre Drivers

However, as an article from truthfinder, discussed by Jalopnik, reveals, at least we don't drive in North Dakota!

Oh. Wow!

Check out the article at 9tro alliance on the Play Mini MINI Extreme!  Read and you too will conclude:
The Cooper S Extreme took over 600 man-hours and around £50,000 to build. It is a stunning showcase of the Play Mini teams ability to envision and build unique and exciting cars.

A First Drive Review Of The MINI Cooper S 4-Door

Car_Revs_Daily provides this video review and writes, in part:
Overall, the MINI 4-Door is a solid rival to the GTI and Golf range, and well worth a steer. The cabin is fantastically luxurious, even if the back seat is still a bit tight.


Take The First Generation MINI Parts Identification Test

Go over to The Daily Toggle, take the test, and tell us how you do!

You Can Outrun Their Cars But Not Their Helicopters And Radios

Here is a MINI doing 120 mph in the U.K. with police cars and helicopters in hot pursuit. According to LiveLeak.com:
Julian Patrick Allen, aged 25, of Terrys Lane, Erdington, pleaded guilty to receiving goods that he knew to be stolen – a BMW mini worth £10,000 belonging to a female owner.

He also pleaded guilty to driving the vehicle dangerously on 27th March on the A452, and to driving while he was disqualified from holding a licence, and without insurance.

Allen also admitted being in possession of cannabis, and sent to Crown Court for sentencing. (At Magistrates' Court April~)

He went on to admit dangerous driving and handling stolen goods and at Birmingham Crown Court on May 28 was jailed for 30 months.

The Mini Cooper driven by Allen was stolen overnight between 24-25 March following a car-key burglary at a flat in Sutton Road, Walsall.

Another Reason To Own A MINI

edmunds.com says:
MINI has not been affected by the Takata airbag recalls.

Over 6 million vehicles are involved in the Takata airbag recalls, which have occurred as far back as 18 months ago and as recently as October 20, 2014.

MINI Minor For 2018/2019?

We have heard this before but it has never panned out.  However, according to Just British's report on a CAR Magazine article, MINI and Toyota are still working on a MINI Minor based on the MINI Rocketman Concept, that should hit the market in late 2018 or early 2019.

"MINI We Tow You Drive"

Marketing discusses a new MINI Asia marketing campaign:
MINI’s brand activation campaign,“MINI We Tow You Drive” programme, sees the brand taking a test drive out of the showroom and onto the streets.

The brand partnered with a tow service company to help drivers whose cars (of all brands) had broken down. The programme responded to breakdown calls in real time, with a MINI dispatched together with the tow truck.

While their cars were being towed away, the drivers were offered a free ride in the form of a MINI, and drive it to their next destination. . . .

A MINI Adventure With Tony Hawk

Here it is, the extended version of what aired during the NBA Western Conference Finals. Transworld Business gathers this video with a "Behind The Scenes" video and interviews Hawk.

USA Today's Take On The Four Door MINI Hatch

[Source: via PostCrescent.com]

MMW 2015 Not Too Far Off

MINI MEET WEST 2015 is just around the corner - June 29, through July 2, 2015. Over 200 Miniacs are expected to descend upon Abbotsford, British Columbia. Abbotsford ‘The City in the Country’ is located in the Lower Mainland region of British Columbia, adjacent to Greater Vancouver and in the heart of the Fraser Valley.

Mini Meet West is an annual gathering of Mini enthusiasts and owners of both the Classic and New MINI. Participants come from all over Canada, the USA, Mexico and as far away as Europe. Last year’s event included approximately 180 registrants & participants.

MINI USA Sales Stagnate In May 2015

Auto Spies provides the official Press Release with this Table. For May, MINI USA reported 5,833 automobiles sold, an increase of only 1.8 percent from the 5,729 sold in the same month a year ago, and a year ago they did not sell a 4 Door Hardtop but did sell Clubmans, Coupe's and Roadsters, all soon to be discontinued and in short supply.. Also of interest is a precipitous drop in Countryman sales.

Five Things That Make The Five Door A MINI To Get

MotoringFile lists five things that make the five door MINI attractive. One of them is:
Has the same general equation of the Clubman with about 10% less agility and 40% more utility. But the big addition are the two conventional doors which just work better than the old Club door.

Superleggera Unveiled At Concorso d’Eleganza at Villa d’Este


retail design blog says the MINI Touring Superleggera Vision was unveiled at  Concorso d’Eleganza at Villa d’Este, and offers photos and a conversation with Anders Warming, head of MINI Design, as told to Dezeen.

The Daily Drive Road Tests the 2015 MINI Cooper S 4-Door Hatch

The Daily Drive offers these "Quick Hits":
Quick Hits

The great: Snappy acceleration, wonderfully nimble handling

The Good: Good fuel economy, nicely finished cabin

The not so good: Limited occupant space, pricey options

Acme MINI Jet Car Crash

Jalopnik features a "Looney Tunes" jet MINI as it crashes missing a 90 degree turn. Wile E. Coyote would be proud. That's All Folks!


F57 MINI Cabrio To Be Assembled In The Netherlands

[Source: AutoCar]
In a report by just-auto:
A source within BMW Group has told just-auto that Project F57, the imminent next-generation Mini Convertible, will be manufactured by VDL Nedcar at its plant in Born. Production of the outgoing R57 series topless Mini has now ceased and the new model will soon be revealed. . . . .

MINI Challenge at Rockingham

love:mini reports on the May 23/24, 2015 MINI Challenge, the first MINI Challenge at Rockingham in five years.