New MINI Mk2 in Nurburgring [Spy Video]

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«The current MINI will get a successor, but it won't be much different from today's car, and many of the modifications are because of safety regs. The MINI Mk2 will go on sale in early 2007.

Exterior modifications are mainly done to the front: the bonnet is higher to cover the hubs of the wiper arms. This ensures fulfilling future safety regulations (protecting pedestrians in case of a crash). The round headlights remain unchanged but due to its bigger and more upright grille the whole front appears a bit more adult. Overall dimensions will be just about the same than today since it is BMW's aim to leave the car a true MINI, but the interior will grow just a little here and there and the quality of the materials used for cockpit and seats is said to be more upmarket. The unique dashboard layout, however, won't be changed much.

Radical changes, however, will be done under the bonnet: the old Chrysler-born two-valve units will be replaced by 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 Hams Hall, UK. Three variants, all with 1.6 litres, are planned: a naturally-aspirated 115-bhp unit for the MINI One, plus two turbocharged variants with 143 bhp (Cooper) and 170 bhp (Cooper S). A MINI Works (with 230 bhp) will be following at a later date.» Automedia


Video link:
http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/website/video.php?id=63750