MINI is expanding its product family with the launch of a model geared squarely to maximising driving fun. The MINI Coupe indulges the keen driver with a level of agility unmatched in the small car segment, along with a unique body and interior concept and the brand's customary commitment to premium levels of quality and equipment.
The first two-seater in its line-up sees MINI not only breathe new life into its successful racing history but also provide a shot in the arm for the super-compact sports car class. The selection of engines, chassis set-up, weight distribution and aerodynamic properties of the MINI Coupe are all focused on delivering optimum performance. As a result, the new car radiates the brand's hallmark go-kart feeling with a whole new depth of intensity and achieves the best performance statistics ever recorded by a volume-produced MINI.
Both in handling and body design, the MINI Coupe embodies the trademark values of the brand in a new, very intense yet at the same time highly characteristic and unmistakable form. Its appearance radiates concentrated energy, and its performance delivers concentrated driving pleasure the moment it takes to the road. The MINI Coupe's contemporary, modern-day vehicle concept is based on a systematic, minimalist and authentic reworking of the classic hallmarks of the traditional ultra-compact sports car segment.
The MINI Coupe is the first two-seater volume-production model from MINI since the brand was relaunched. The absence of a rear seat bench creates new scope for offering spontaneous driving enjoyment for two people while at the same time catering for the requirements of an active and varied lifestyle. The spacious, adaptable boot is extremely flexible. With a large, high-opening tailgate and a wide through-loading system that can also be opened from the driver's or passenger's seat, the MINI Coupe offers cargo-carrying possibilities that will suit a wide range of needs, whether for daily routine, leisure or touring for two.
Unique Body Concept and Expressive Proportions
The body design is based on an authentic interpretation of typical MINI design, with a clear emphasis on the brand's sporty DNA. At the same time the MINI Coupe adds its own bold and distinctive styling signature which, though extending beyond individual details, does not compromise the instantly recognisable brand identity. The design language, with its combination of athletically sculpted surfaces, harmonious curves and parallel lines, follows all the salient MINI styling principles. At the same time, however, the Coupe also breaks the mould - as the first MINI to adopt a three-box body structure. Unlike the MINI, the MINI Clubman and the MINI Convertible, the MINI Coupe is divided into three distinct segments - engine compartment, passenger compartment and boot. This structure helps to create a classic and very distinctive Gran Turismo-style rear end, particularly when the MINI Coupe is seen in silhouette.
The exterior dimensions give the MINI Coupe very sporty proportions and a low, forward-thrusting profile. The new two-seater measures 3,714 mm in length (MINI Cooper S Coupe, MINI John Cooper Works Coupe: 3,734 mm) and 1,683 mm in width, with a height of 1,378 mm (MINI Cooper S Coupe, MINI John Cooper Works Coupe: 1,384 mm). In other words, while the overall length, overall width and wheelbase (2,467 mm) are almost identical to the measurements of the MINI, the overall height has been reduced by 29 millimetres. Oval recesses in the roof liner provide extra headroom inside the car.
The clear horizontal structuring into three distinct tiers - the body, the wrap- around glass areas and the strikingly superimposed roof - is a typical MINI hallmark. However, the innovative "helmet roof" in particular gives the MINI Coupe a distinctive appearance from every angle.
Also distinctive are the A-pillars and windscreen, which are more sharply raked than on the MINI. The resulting smaller frontal area gives the MINI Coupe excellent aerodynamic properties.
Stiff Body, Ideal Weight Balance
The MINI Coupe is equipped with extra bodyshell stiffening at the rear, which means that the overall torsional rigidity of the body is even higher than on the MINI. In conjunction with the extra-sturdy side sills, this optimises the occupant protection provided by the strong passenger cell. At the same time the high level of body stiffness on the MINI Coupe also enhances agility and precise handling control.
At the front of the vehicle, too, there are special body stiffening measures, along with innovative features to improve pedestrian protection. The resulting weight distribution has major benefits for vehicle dynamics. The slight increase in front axle load rating compared with the MINI increases traction at the front wheels and helps to ensure that the engine power is effortlessly translated into sporty acceleration.
Active Rear Spoiler for Optimised Aerodynamics
To improve airflow at higher speeds, the MINI Coupe is the first ever MINI to feature an active rear spoiler. Integrated in the bootlid, the spoiler pops up automatically when the MINI Coupe reaches a speed of 80 km/h (50 mph). When the speed drops below 60 km/h (37 mph) again, a four-part control mechanism returns the spoiler to its rest position. It is also possible to operate the active rear spoiler manually, for example for cleaning purposes, using a button in the overhead control panel.
At higher speeds, the active rear spoiler reduces lift at the rear axle to improve aerodynamic balance and road grip. The active rear spoiler forms part of a precisely configured aerodynamic concept that also includes an innovatively designed roof spoiler. This roof spoiler is fully integrated into the styling of the helmet roof. It has an opening in the centre which allows the airflow over the roof to be directed down to the rear window or, depending on speed, to the rear spoiler. This reduces rear lift and improves the driving dynamics of the MINI Coupe.