MINI will offer a lifetime subscription to SIRIUS satellite radio with new Cooper hardtop models
Beginning this June, the 2007 MINI Cooper and MINI Cooper S hardtops will arrive with the option of factory-installed SIRIUS satellite radio with a transferable lifetime subscription. The $950 stand-alone option is also available as part of the $1,400 Audio Pack which includes a Hi-Fi sound system. In the event that a SIRIUS equipped MINI is sold the SIRIUS stays with the car, adding a unique additional value.
Source and image: BMW/MINI pressroom
2007 MINI Cooper receives Edmunds.com ?Editor?s Most Wanted? pick
In the ?Coupe Under $30,000? segment, Edmunds.com has awarded the 2007 MINI Cooper the distinction of ?Editor?s Most Wanted.? The MINI Cooper has been completely redesigned for the 2007 model year, although the vehicle still maintains its appealing retro design. ?Its classic styling and handling have been painstakingly preserved,? said Edmunds, ?with welcome improvements appearing inside and underhood.? Those advancements include new BMW/Peugeot-sourced engines including a 175-horsepower turbocharged unit in the MINI Cooper S.
Since 1999, Edmunds.com has granted Most Wanted status, in over 30 different market categories, including a Most Significant Vehicle of the Year award. Most Wanted cars and trucks are those vehicle that editors would park in their own driveways.
Source: Edmunds.com
Image: BMW/MINI press
2007 MINI Cooper S: out with the supercharger, in with the turbo
MINI switched forms of forced induction with the 2007 redesign of the Cooper S, dropping the old supercharger and introducing a turbo engine. Output rates at 175 horsepower and 177 foot-pounds of torque, although an ?Overboost? function during acceleration briefly increases torque to 192 ft-lbs., yielding that coveted ?seat-in-your-back? kick.
Direct fuel injection sprays gas into the 1.6-liter four-cylinder?s combustion chambers at precisely the right moment. A compression ratio of 10.5:1 is high for a turbocharged engine and a testament to the engine?s performance potential.
A twin-scroll turbocharger directs exhaust gas within the manifold and turbo optimally, enhancing turbocharger response even at engine speeds as low as 1,400 rpm. MINI says ?turbo gap,? or the lag between throttle application and engine response common to turbocharged vehicles, has effectively been eliminated.
Source and image: BMW/MINI press [Registration required]
