Saturday, December 17, 2011

2011 MINI Cooper S - Official photos, features, specs, pricing

Go-kart-driving fun, an interior that provides the maximum amount of car in the minimum amount of space and a myriad of personalization possibilities keep the 2011 MINI Cooper S Hardtops on top of the premium small-car segment.
Photo: 2011 MINI Cooper S 
Photo: 2011 MINI Cooper SView more 2011 MINI Cooper S pictures in our 2011 MINI Cooper S photo gallery
The body of the latest-generation MINI – introduced in 2007 – boasts evolutionary development from the iconic 1959 Classic Mini, while the interior includes styling cues that are evocative of the original and contain the latest technological advances.
Photo: 2011 MINI Cooper S 
Photo: 2011 MINI Cooper S
2011 Model Year Design and Technology Changes – Summary
Exterior updates
All models will have new bumper fascias, tail lamp assemblies and larger fog lights.
There is a new Adaptive Xenon headlight option, and black headlight housings are newly available for Cooper and Cooper S (no charge option).
Sunroof glass tint will change from 30 percent light penetration in the previous model to 10 percent on 2011 MY vehicles.
New colors: Spice Orange will be available on the Hardtop models. All MINI vehicles will also be available in British Racing Green II (which is lighter and closer in shade to the iconic British Racing Green of decade’s past), Eclipse Gray metallic (which replace Dark Silver metallic), White Silver, Ice Blue (non-metallic) and lastly, Velvet Silver (which replaces Sparkling Silver).
Five new wheel designs will adorn the MY 2011 MINI lineup. There will be a new 15” wheel for the Cooper models.
All the 16” wheels will be replaced with new designs. The Rib Spoke will replace the standard S-Winder on the Cooper S models and the 4-Hole Circular is an alternative for both Cooper and Cooper S cars. The 6-Star Twin Spoke will also be available.
The 17” Conical Spoke wheel replaces the Crown Spoke.
Photo: 2011 MINI Cooper S 
Photo: 2011 MINI Cooper S
Interior Updates
All interior items that were previously covered in Silver paint will be matte black, the steering wheel will have a chrome trim ring in the middle and a light beige headliner will be standard (replacing the gray headliner).
The radio controls for the standard Boost CD system have been enhanced for more intuitive use.
Radio and Infotainment
HD Radio and Sirius satellite radio will both be standard for all 2011 MINI models (previously these options were priced at $500 each); and customers will receive a one-year subscription for SIRIUS.
There will be three audio options in 2011. Standard will be a new version of Boost CD with new radio controls, with HD Radio and SIRIUS already installed.
MINI Connected will be an option on all 2011 models. It will add a new 6.5” hi-resolution screen, Comfort Bluetooth with Smartphone prep, voice recognition, and a joystick controller to access all features.
The third radio option will be MINI Connected with Navigation that also features real-time traffic information. The new NAV system uses an internal memory card and maps can be updated through a USB port in the glove box.
Photo: 2011 MINI Cooper S 
Photo: 2011 MINI Cooper S
Engine and Technology Updates
The MINI Cooper now makes 121HP, thanks to an optimized lubrication and the reduction of internal friction losses.
The MINI Cooper S makes 181HP, as MINI has added the VALVETRONIC intake valve control.
Anti-torque steer programming is built into electric power steering.
Enhanced acoustic attenuation has been added throughout the car to reduce road and tire noise.
Photo: 2011 MINI Cooper S 
Photo: 2011 MINI Cooper S
Base Retail Price – USA (effective September 1, 2010)
2011 MINI Cooper Hardtop $20,100 (2010: $19,500)
2011 MINI Cooper S Hardtop $23,700 (2010: $23,000)
2011 MINI JCW Hardtop $29,800 (2010: $29,500)
* All 2011 pricing includes Destination and Handling charge of $700 (2010: $700)
Photo: 2011 MINI Cooper S 
Photo: 2011 MINI Cooper S
More fun with less guilt: The MINI Powertrain
The fall introduction of the 2011 MINI will include the extensively upgraded 1.6 liter, four-cylinder engines, resembling the original MINI’s in cylinder number and placement, transversely over the front axle, but far more efficient, cleaner and powerful. Both were developed utilizing BMW Group’s expertise in the field of engine development.
The MINI Cooper Hardtop accelerates from 0-60 mph in 8.4 seconds. The MINI Cooper S joins the forces of direct injection and a twin-scroll turbocharger with the incredible power-enhancing and fuel-efficient technology known as Valvetronic, making the engine the most efficient in its displacement class. The MINI Cooper S Hardtop accelerates to from 0-60 mph in 6.6 seconds. (MINI Cooper Clubman and Convertible 0-60 mph = 8.9 seconds; MINI Cooper S Clubman and Convertible 0-60 mph = 6.8 seconds).
The MINI Cooper produces 121 hp and 114 lb-ft of torque, while the MINI Cooper S boasts 181 hp and 177 lb-ft respectively (192 lb-ft with overboost).
Compared with the MINI Cooper Hardtop, the MINI Cooper S Hardtop has a more sporting suspension set-up, and as an option both models are available with a sport suspension for an even higher standard of driving pleasure.
Despite their much higher level of dynamic performance and sporting character, both MINIs return superior fuel economy, with the Cooper S Hardtop having a 2011 EPA fuel economy estimate of 27 City / 36 Highway mpg for a combined EPA estimate of 30 mpg (compared to 2010 MY rating of: 26 mpg City / 34 mpg Highway / 29 mpg Combined).
The Cooper Hardtop is even more efficient with EPA 2011 estimates of 29/37 City/Highway for a combined rating of 32 mpg (compared to 2010 rating of: estimates of 28 mpg City / 37 mpg Highway / 32mpg Combined). All fuel economy numbers are for models equipped with manual transmission.
The MINI Cooper and Cooper S Hardtops both come standard with a six-speed manual transmission. Both models can be ordered with an optional six-speed automatic transmission that features a sport mode and includes steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters on the Cooper S, allowing the driver to keep both hands on the wheel even during gearshifts.
All MINI models come with a new, self-adjusting clutch. Automatic readjustment ensures that the pedal feel you expect from a MINI is there to be enjoyed over the car’s full service life. Plus, the synchronization of the gears is further optimized by a carbon coating for the clutch linings.
The EPS Electric Power-assisted Steering helps make the MINI even more nimble and agile on the road, by delivering speed-related assistance ensuring low steering forces when parking and precise control at high speeds. And when the standard Sport button is depressed, EPS offers a sportier mode that specifically increases steering forces for an even more direct driving experience.
MacPherson-style spring struts on the front axle ensure precise wheel guidance, keeping the steering almost entirely free of drive forces in fast bends, when accelerating and when applying the brakes. The multi-link rear axle, a concept unique in the MINI segment, ensures optimum tire contact with the road at all times through its kinematics.
Photo: 2011 MINI Cooper S 
Photo: 2011 MINI Cooper S
MINI Cooper and Cooper S Hardtop Design - Clear look and a friendly face.
“From the original to the original” – this was the philosophy in creating the body design of the second-generation modern MINI. The entire car was redesigned from the ground up, with many details and features being modified and enhanced in the process. But in its outer look, the MINI remains unmistakable, the radiator grill and large circular headlights characterizing the front end of the car and giving it the traditional, “bulldog,” friendly appearance.
Revised exterior styling points to improved sporting potential
The exterior styling now has a precision-modified design, which showcases its enhanced sporting potential. A new geometry for the front bumper and larger deformation zones reduce the risk of injury in a collision with a pedestrian or cyclist. These new details merge seamlessly with the overall appearance of the new model. The designers went to great lengths with the three-dimensional sculpting of the newly designed body elements to ensure that the customary MINI proportions, including its short overhangs, were kept intact.
The modifications in the lower section of the front apron are considerably more prominent. Here, the borders of the light units and fog lamps now have more pronounced three-dimensional contours. The lower air intake on all the model variants is also given greater visual emphasis. On the MINI Cooper S, a black cross-piece accentuates the width of the car, while air intakes (with optional chrome frames) guide cool air to the brake discs and add to the sporting appearance.
The hallmark MINI circular headlights have newly-designed light sources with modified styling. Black headlight housings, which were first featured in the Camden anniversary model, are available as an option on the Cooper and Cooper S.
Looking at the car from the side, the new design of MINI Cooper’s familiar side scuttles provide an extra, finely-judged touch of elegance. The glass-like lens cover of the indicators now has a striking structure formed from concentric circles.
LEDs optimize both the lighting effect and contemporary appearance of the rear lights on all MINIs. This advanced light technology also provides the MINI with a very distinctive look at night.
Photo: 2011 MINI Cooper S 
Photo: 2011 MINI Cooper S
Other new features include the relocation of the reverse light and rear fog lamps, now located in the lower section of the rear bumper, housed in a centrally positioned red strip of lights.
Attractive new additions to the range of exterior paint finishes and standard and optional wheel variants offer customers additional scope for personalizing their new car. The new metallic paint finishes (British Racing Green II, Spice Orange, and for the MINI Cooper S – Eclipse Gray), can be specified from launch. Ice Blue will be available at a later date.
The front end and front design of the car serves to distinguish the individual model variants. One significant difference setting the two variants apart is the more powerful and muscular looking hood, which includes an exclusive air-intake scoop on the Cooper S, is some 0.8-inches higher than that of the smooth one on the Cooper.
Seen from the side, the MINI is firm, taut and striking, resting powerfully on its wheels in a look well-known to friends and aficionados of the brand as the “stance on the wheels.” Another characteristic is the seemingly uninterrupted “flow” of windows around the car, adorning the new MINI with a visual of having a, 360-degree band of glass.
The distinct “shoulders” at the rear of the new MINI form a counter-element to the longer front end of the car. The well-known MINI proportions are maintained and are faithful to the original Classic Mini.
Cabin fever
Inside the cars, the newly designed controls for the audio and air conditioning systems ensure optimized functionality and ergonomics. Combined with the horizontal geometry of the interior and, in particular, the instrument panel, the displays in their purist, round design characterize the overall design theme of the cockpit.
The central element is the MINI-signature center speedometer. The displays and controls for the entertainment system as well as the display for the optional MINI Connected and Navigation systems are integrated in the speedometer, while the tachometer remains a separate unit positioned, as befits a sporting car, behind the steering wheel in the driver’s line of sight.
A round transmitter finished in typical MINI style replaces the conventional door and ignition key, with the driver controlling engine operation with a start/stop button. All instruments and controls are very smooth and easy to operate, positioned at the right point for optimum ergonomics.
Iconic center speedometer and toggle switches
Combined with the horizontal geometry of the interior and, in particular, the dashboard, the instrument displays in their purist, round design characterize the overall design theme of the cockpit. The central element is the MINI-signature center speedometer, which features a maximum speed of 160 mph. The displays and controls for the entertainment systems as well as the display for the optional navigation systems are integrated in the speedometer, while the tachometer remains a separate unit positioned, as befits a sporting car, behind the steering wheel in the driver’s line of sight.
A round transmitter finished in typical MINI style replaces the conventional door and ignition key, with the driver controlling engine operation with a start/stop button. All instruments and controls are very smooth and easy to operate, positioned at the right point for optimum ergonomics.
Photo: 2011 MINI Cooper S 
Photo: 2011 MINI Cooper S
Background illumination in five colors
The interior lighting reflects typical MINI style and class, with the addition of ambient lighting which can be varied in five stages from warm orange to sporting blue. Serving as discreet “waterfall illumination” from above and as indirect illumination of the roof lining, the door storage bins and the door handle recesses, this illumination scheme creates a unique atmosphere inside the 2011 MINI.
The cutting-edge exclusivity of the interior is further underlined by harmonious colors and high-quality materials. The model-specific selection of seat upholstery, trim elements and color lines have also been extensively updated.
‘Design worlds’ help achieve detailed interior customization
The range of seat upholstery, interior colors, trim elements and color lines for all models of the new MINI family has also been extensively revised. Among the newly introduced options are the Cross Check cloth/leather combination, the interior color Polar Beige, trim elements in Striped Alloy, Black Checkered and Pepper White, and the Satellite Gray and Toffee Color Lines.
The selection of available colors and materials is set out on a model-specific basis. What’s more, the Rally, Classic and Scene “design worlds” have been introduced for the first time as a basis for creating a configuration of the MINI which fits the owner’s personal style. Each of these design worlds comprises a carefully coordinated combination of body paint finish, roof color, wheel design, interior color, upholstery, trim elements, color line and other visual details.
They represent a recommendation by the MINI design team and lend each car an extremely coherent character. In customary MINI style, additional – and almost limitless – customization can be achieved by varying the individual components of each design world and adding further items from the extensive range of equipment and accessories.
All the models in the new MINI family come as standard with a wealth of interior features which underline their high level of quality even more strikingly than before, as well as ensuring optimized functionality.
The distinctive design of the cockpit, all the controls and the door and side trim exudes cutting-edge exclusivity, a virtue now accentuated further by an extremely harmonious color scheme and high-quality materials.
All of the buttons and switches (and their surrounds) on the center console below the center speedo are now black, as are the controls and framing of the audio system display. The air conditioning controls are bordered by a chrome ring, and another chrome highlight can be found in the steering wheel. The keypads of the optional multifunction steering wheel are also in black.
Complete range of safety equipment
The modified structure of the body shell as well as a wide range of safety features help to ensure the 2011 MINI meets or exceeds all accident-protection requirements. In a recent NHTSA test, MINI excelled in all aspects with four- and five-star ratings.
Reflecting the premium standard of the brand, MINI models come with a wide range of safety equipment, including six standard airbags to enhance occupant safety. Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) is standard on all models and Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) is optional. DTC also includes an EDLC (Electronic Differential Lock) function that controls wheel spin on the drive wheels during acceleration by using front brake force to manage the speed and torque differential between the wheels.
Active safety is enhanced in critical driving situations by the standard anti-lock brakes (ABS), Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBFD), and Cornering Brake Control (CBC).
Brake Assist detects emergency operation of the brakes and builds up maximum brake pressure very quickly. Hill Assist start-off assistance, in conjunction with DSC, maintains brake pressure for up to three seconds after the brake pedal has been released and before the clutch has been engaged, to prevent the car from rolling back when setting off on an uphill gradient.
For 2011, Adaptive Headlights are available for the first time on a MINI in conjunction with the optional xenon lights.
This technology allows the headlights to follow the line of upcoming corners to ensure maximum illumination of the road surface. The steering angle, yaw rate and speed of the car are all taken into account in determining the beam angle of the headlights. In addition, customers can now specify an automatic dimming function not only for the rear-view mirror but for the exterior mirrors as well.
Performance tires standard on all MINIs
The MINI Cooper comes standard with 15-inch light-alloy rims and 175/65 R 15 performance tires. The MINI Cooper S, in turn, is equipped with 16-inch light-alloy rims and 195/65 R 16 runflat tires. Even larger 17-inch rims running on 205/45 R 17 tires are available as an option.
The MINI Cooper S models boast run flat tires as yet another standard feature, modified in this case to reflect the suspension set-up of the MINI. Thanks to their failsafe running characteristics, these tires allow the driver to go on motoring even when a tire is completely flat, covering a distance of up to 90 miles at a maximum speed of 50 mph.
And every 2011 MINI is equipped with a Tire Pressure Monitoring system (TPM) that permanently monitors air pressure and informs the driver in the event of an emergency.
Photo: 2011 MINI Cooper S 
Photo: 2011 MINI Cooper S
Entertainment and Navigation system
The new audio and navigation systems and optional integration platforms for external music players and mobile phones all offer top-class entertainment and communications capability. All three of the radio system options include an MP3-compatible CD player and AUX IN connection to hook up external music players with the on-board audio system. Even the standard-fitted MINI CD radio comes with six loudspeakers. The radio now boasts newly designed controls, and the radio’s volume control and station selector are now positioned at the same level.
The MINI Connected and MINI Connected with Navigation systems come with a 6.5-inch high-resolution display in the Center Speedo and a Bluetooth hands-free facility with USB audio interface. The maps for the navigation systems are stored on an on-board flash memory device and can be updated via a USB interface. The map display can be viewed in a day and night mode.
In conjunction with the Bluetooth mobile phone preparation with USB audio interface, which also includes a snap-in adapter in the center console with charging function and a roof aerial, both the MINI Connected and MINI Connected with Navigation system allow the use of add-on functions supported by a connected mobile device.
These include audio streaming via Bluetooth, album cover artwork display on the on-board monitor, Web Radio, and innovative office functions. For example, caller lists stored on a mobile phone and business cards from contacts can be viewed on the on-board monitor. In addition, the optional voice output function allows calendar entries recorded in a smartphone to be read out.
Accessories - Unique Features for the Individualist
Supplementing the car’s standard equipment as well as the options offered by the factory, the new MINI may be further personalized through a wide range of Genuine MINI Accessories. All of these items provide a perfect match for the 2011 MINI and meet the quality and safety standards of the BMW Group.
By tradition, special roof graphics and mirror caps play an important role in customizing the MINI. The 2011 MINI offers more than 100 options for roof graphics, including the Union Jack, Checkered Flag and the letters “MINI.” Mirror caps and door handle trim with the Union Jack and Checkered Flag motifs highlight the British heritage and sporting DNA of the MINI.
And to take customization to the next level, in 2011 MINI will now offer customers the option to create their own graphics for their vehicle’s “A” panel, roof, side panel, interior and stripes.
Sporting highlights from John Cooper Works Tuning
The 2011 MINI is also available with exterior components from the John Cooper Works Tuning Range made by hand from carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic. These include panels for the front air scoop, the exterior mirrors, and the grab handle on the tailgate.
Components from John Cooper Works provide the latest road-going MINI with classic motorsport technology. The wide range of Works Accessories named after the legendary Formula 1 car maker and MINI tuner includes enhancements like the 12.4-inch, cross-drilled front-brake discs for the MINI Cooper S. To match these larger brakes, John Cooper Works offers 18-inch double-spoke light-alloy wheels, the largest wheels approved for MINI (7J x 18), mounting 205/40X18 low-profile, tires (and featuring runflat technology). The Dealer installed John Cooper Works Tuning Kit raises the output of the MINI Cooper S to 195 hp and the maximum torque to 184 lb-ft (with the over boost function temporary to 200 lb-ft). This kit is available for the manual transmission models and later, automatic transmission models.
Another highlight of the John Cooper Works accessory line is the Aerodynamic Kit with the front and rear air dam, an all-black hood grille and new side skirts, providing a sporty and aggressive look to the MINI Cooper and MINI Cooper S. This aero kit can also be supplemented by two roof spoilers: The John Cooper Works roof spoiler with a carbon surface approved for both the MINI Cooper S and MINI Cooper; and the single-piece roof spoiler finished on request in body color. The youthful appearance of the package is enhanced by multi-spoke 17-inch light-alloy wheels carrying 205/45X17 tires.
Photo: 2011 MINI Cooper S - 
Photo: 2011 MINI Cooper S -
Production - Tradition and Quality, Made in England:
The modern MINI’s sales success is mirrored by its production triumph. The original plan launched in 2000 called for an annual output of 100,000 units, but demand by 2005 had already doubled that number.
Growth of this magnitude demanded the utmost performance and great flexibility on the part of the production plants as well as the suppliers. To facilitate this, the new generation of MINI Hardtop, Convertible and Clubman are built by three British plants of the BMW Group production network in Oxford, Swindon, and Hams Hall. These three plants form a closely-knit production system, with a highly integrated structure. Together, all three plants currently employ some 5,700 associates, with a maximum production capacity of up to 240,000 MINIs a year.
The three plants comply with the production and quality standards of the BMW Group and are certified for environmental management to ISO 14001. Together with the BMW Research and Innovation Center (FIZ) in Munich, Germany, the Quality and Engineering Center (QEC) in Oxford played a decisive role in the ongoing technical development of the MINI. And now the QEC consistently monitors production quality by means of advanced and sophisticated inspection methods.
View more 2011 MINI Cooper S pictures in our 2011 MINI Cooper S photo gallery:

2011 MINI Cooper S specifications, overview, information and imagery courtesy of: MINI

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