Redesigned MINI Cooper Hardtop To Get More Power, New Safety Tech

Peabody, USA, 10/22/2013 / SubmitMyPR /

While the MINI Cooper is already known for its go-kart-like responsiveness, fans of the quirky classic can expect even more zip out of the next generation of the vehicle. MINI recently released the engine specs of the redesigned MINI Cooper Hardtop ahead of the model's public debut on Nov. 18 in England, and both horsepower and torque have increased across trims.

Housing an all-new 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder powerplant, the base model of the new MINI Cooper will see the most significant boosts in output, churning out 134 horsepower and an impressive 162 pound-feet of torque. Those figures represent gains of 13 horsepower and 48 pound-feet of torque compared to the outgoing naturally aspirated 1.6-liter four-cylinder. Meanwhile, the redesigned MINI Cooper S will produce 189 horsepower and 207 pound-feet of torque with its new 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, improvements of eight horsepower and 30 pound-feet of torque over its 1.6-liter turbocharged predecessor.

"The MINI Cooper has relatively modest output compared to larger vehicles, but its nimble chassis makes it extremely engaging on the road, as any MINI owner will tell you," said Gary King, general manager of MINI of Peabody, a Greater Boston MINI dealer. "However, now that the next generation is receiving a performance boost, drivers will get the most satisfying MINI Cooper yet, particularly with the impact of the extra torque on acceleration."

The new MINI Cooper Hardtop will also receive a host of available driver-assistance technologies to keep occupants safe while they're out having fun on the road. A new head-up display above the steering wheel will keep relevant speed, navigation and entertainment information safely in the driver's line of vision, while a multifunctional camera mounted on the windshield near the rearview mirror will enable technologies like adaptive cruise control and a collision-warning system.

To alleviate any concerns about blinding passing drivers with high beams at night, the newly available High-Beam Assistant will automatically turn the MINI Cooper's brights off and on when a vehicle is identified ahead. Additionally, a sensor-based parking-assistant system will help drivers in urban settings find and enter parking spots, while a rearview camera will provide them with a clear look at obstacles when backing up, guiding users with interactive track lines.

"The new MINI Cooper benefits from the latest technology from BMW, whether it's a three-cylinder engine originally developed for the BMW i8 plug-in hybrid supercar or the automaker's crystal-clear head-up display," added King. "That means that buyers will be getting levels of performance and safety that are usually reserved for high-end luxury models."

About MINI of Peabody:
Since 2002, MINI of Peabody has been the leading source for new and used MINI vehicles in Northern New England. Their dedication to professional, friendly customer service allowed them to win the 2009 MINI Motoring Cup, a national award presented to the dealership that has the highest sales and customer satisfaction. Their new location in Peabody offers a state-of-the art service center and an expanded selection of MINI parts and accessories. See their MINI inventory or schedule a service appointment at www.minipeabody.com, call (877) 212-9727, like them on at www.facebook.com/miniofpeabody or visit their new showroom at 209 Andover Street (Route 114) in Peabody, Massachusetts.