First Drive: 2011 Mini Cooper - Automobile Magazine
Acknowledging the fact that it's difficult to remain an adolescent forever, Mini expanded its lineup with a longer wheelbase Clubman model for the 2008 model year. A longer wheelbase, a third entry door, and what Mini USA calls rear barn doors are the key features. As with other Minis, six-speed manual and automatic transmissions are available with two 1. 6-liter DOHC four-cylinder engines: the standard Cooper Clubman is normally aspirated, the Cooper S is turbocharged and intercooled. For 2011, a mid-cycle refresh applies to the whole family of two- and three-door Minis. Front and rear bumper fascias, a new grille texture, minor lamp alterations, and a whole new line of wheels will keep Mini watchers' heads spinning. Five of the available eleven exterior colors are new including a lighter shade of British Racing Green. At long last some serious attention has been paid to cleaning up the Mini's haphazardly arrayed instrument panel. Seat adjusters are unassisted but that's consistent with the lean and mean Mini theme. The normally aspirated engine gets three more ponies (now 121 hp. ) attributable to revised fuel and ignition software and reduced parasitic losses. Source: www.automobilemag.com
