AUTO MODIFIED 2011

The newly developed 2.0-liter turbo diesel we told you about in our previous post isn't the only fresh addition to MINI's lineup for 2011. The new year also brings a John Cooper Works [JCW] Pack option for the hatch and convertible models, a performance kit for the Cooper S and the Clubman Hampton special edition.

The JCW pack option for the Cooper and Cooper S Hardtop and Convertible vehicles is due to be available from the second quarter of 2011 as a factory option. It includes an aero kit with front and rear aprons, plus side skirts, as well as 17-inch weight-optimized aluminum alloy wheels.

While this model wisely passes on the faux wood trim of the old classic, it still holds the rugged, ready for action look on the road.How does it drive then? Well as you would expect it is a different class to the original. In fact we were driving it for two weeks and there was no rust! Something that you wouldn't have been able to say with confidence on the original car.

Sales from the German brand increased by 10.5% between January and September and a total of 82,049 vehicles sold have resulted in the German marque taking just over five per cent of the UK market. Sales of the X1 and 5 series ranges are said to have contributed to the massive rise in sales this year alone.

So, now here we are, some 30 years on and the Mini Countryman is making its come back. When I first saw the car, I thought 'Oh no, what have they done!' It was like looking at the Mini's ugly brother that had been hidden away for years.

After the initial shock wore off I reminded myself of the past and the original Mini Countryman which we had loved so much. This made me wake up to the extra practicality that this model gives, combined with the statement and style of the Mini brand (now part of BMW).

The popular Mini models have also increased its sales figures by 10.1% too compared to the 29, 790 vehicles sold in 2009, taking the brand to number eight in the UK sales charts.

The Mini Wheel are often talked about as being some of the best in the industry. They are durable and have the reputation for long term use. There are so many varieties available that it really allows a Mini owner to personalize their car by showing their own style statement.

Interior Features

Reviewers have always liked the Mini Coopers quirky, well-made interior. They are, however, rather preoccupied with the “Openometer” gauge on convertibles that logs how much time drivers spend with the top down. They says it’s an interesting feature, but impractical. Previously, test drivers complained about the Cooper’s confusing audio controls. Mini simplified the controls in the 2011 model, but reviewers have yet to comment on this improvement.

MINI says that the One D hatch accelerates from 0 to 100km/h (62mph) in 11.4 seconds and achieves a top speed of 185km/h or 115mph, while returning 3.8lt/100km [74.3mph UK or 61.9mpg US] in the combined cycle with CO2 emissions of 99 g/km.

If you are looking for a car that is functional but still fun, the MINI Clubman may be for you. Those who like the look and personality of the MINI Cooper but found the car too small to be practical, may find the Clubman a perfect fit for them.

After the initial shock wore off I reminded myself of the past and the original Mini Countryman which we had loved so much. This made me wake up to the extra practicality that this model gives, combined with the statement and style of the Mini brand (now part of BMW).

The 2011 MINI Clubman also stands out as a very fuel-efficient vehicle. It can accelerate to a top speed of 125 mph and can get as much as 51.4 miles per gallon on the highway. The vehicles are equipped with standard six-speed manual transmission with automatic transmission as an available option.