Words by Rob McSorley
Having been caught testing numerous times clad with full camouflage the all-new MINI has been spied in all its glory for the very first time. Our friends over at Autoblog.com have uncovered a series of pictures revealing the new car in both standard and Cooper S trim during a recent photo shoot.
Based on BMW’s UKL architecture which will underpin the soon-to-be-launched BMW 1 Series GT and MPV, the new MINI will get a range of new, more efficient petrol engines that are likely to include three-cylinder units including BMW's 1.5-litre engine that benefits from a twin-scroll turbo, direct injection and variable valve timing. Power outputs for this engine can range from anywhere between 110 to 200 bhp. There will also be various diesel-powered MINI models in different power outputs.
Disappointingly in profile the MINI looks pretty much unchanged with the exception of a less upright windscreen. The rear sees a new pair of oversized tail lamps that will take some getting used to. Although a little hard to tell the all-new MINI, codenamed F56, will be slightly larger than its predecessor in all directions although the increased length appears to have been added to the front overhang which is most likely a result of more strict pedestrian crash regulations.
The new Cooper appears to have adopted flashy LED daytime running headlamps similar to those seen on the well received Rocketman concept. The front grille is now a lot more rounded now with an integrated matt black bumper section. The new cars nose looks much more rounded, with all variants carrying a small but noticeable power bulge (shown here on the S model above the intake slot on the bonnet).
The cabin is expected to be where the most noticeable changes are to be seen. BMW have made a decision to reposition the speedo of the new car from the centre of the dash to the more traditional location in a binnacle in front of the steering wheel. The dashboard will still centre around a large circle as before but this time it will house the MINI’s stereo or navigation system where fitted.
Sources have revealed that the old car's biggest criticism, the lack of rear space for passengers, is said to have been greatly improved thanks to the new models more space-efficient design. The boot too is expected to grow a little which should help in the face of more practical rivals from Audi and Citroen. The technology on offer in the new car is also likely to be far more sophisticated with options such as lane departure warning and adaptive cruise control making an appearance for the first time.
The all-new MINI is expected to be revealed in full towards the end of 2013
All photographs and text are the exclusive property of Rob McSorley (except where stated otherwise). They are made available for your personal viewing enjoyment only. No images are within the Public Domain. The photographs may not be copied, reproduced, redistributed, manipulated, projected, used or altered in any way without the prior permission of Rob McSorley (info@DriverVIBE.co.uk).
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