MINI One now available in South Africa

MINI, the original maker of premium small cars, is sharpening its position by introducing MINI One – a new model variant within its MINI Hatch range. The MINI One will be available for ordering from August 2011.

Internationally the MINI One has already gained much success, contributing to more than 18% of total MINI sales. The new MINI One offers local customers an inimitable essence of MINI with a lower price. Furthermore, it builds on a tradition which now stretches back more than 50 years as well as the history of the brand reflecting an extraordinarily powerful allure.

MINI One Character with history

Few other vehicles have had such a sustained impact on automotive development as the classic Mini presented in 1959.  A rigorous commitment to the efficient use of space and the innovative arrangement of the drive components spawned a small car concept that was revolutionary at the time and is still considered pioneering today. The practical and economic virtues of the compact four-seater and its agile handling also helped the classic Mini to attain legendary status not only in its native Britain, but around the world.

Fast-forward to the 21st century and MINI remains a maker of classless and globally successful cars. Indeed, the brand’s current crop of models also retains significant links with their forebears in terms of design. The principle adhered to in the development of the classic Mini – of creating maximum interior space and functionality within exceptionally small exterior dimensions – also underpins the MINI One.

Efficient engine that sets a new benchmark in its segment

The MINI One is fitted with a 1.6 litre engine, which features Valvetronic technology. This optimises the engine’s responses and at the same time significantly reduces fuel consumption as well as emissions levels. This technology results in a maximum power and torque output of 72kW and 153Nm, which sprints the MINI One from 0 to 100 km/h in 10.5 seconds. C02 emissions are low at 127 g/km with an economical combined fuel consumption of 5.4 litres per 100 km. This gives the MINI One a tank range of 740 kilometres. The performance of the MINI One defines characteristics of an entry level premium car that sets a new benchmark amongst its competitors in the small car segment.

Unique differentiation

The new MINI One differentiates itself from its MINI siblings with black grille slats, black door mirrors, 15 inch black steel wheels with full wheel cover, black tailgate handle, stainless steel exhaust without a chrome tip, roof in body colour only and a two-spoke steering wheel – all of which ensure a unique appearance of the MINI One and agility described as a “go-kart feeling”, which is synonymous with all other MINIs.

MINI One Unparalleled safety

Optimum braking behaviour in any situation faced by the MINI One is ensured by four disc brakes, an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) as standard and Cornering Brake Control (CBC). Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) manages the balance of the braking force between the front and rear axles while the Brake Assist speeds up the process, enabling maximum braking pressure and therefore minimising the braking distance.

The Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), a standard feature in the MINI One, prevents unstable driving situations by intervening in the engine management and, if necessary, by applying braking force to individual wheels at the front or rear. The DSC function also includes Hill Assist, which enables the driver to easily overcome any tough road conditions.

Thanks to the multilink rear axle, each wheel in the MINI One can react independently, meaning that an uneven road surface doesn’t affect the entire chassis ? and that a driver’s experience remains as relaxed as ever. Even more safety is provided by the single-link spring-strut front axle and symmetrical equal-length drive shafts.

The MINI One is fitted with a runflat indicator, which passively monitors all four tyres to warn in the event of sudden tyre pressure loss for added safety.

The MINI One has six airbags as standard that will protect the driver and passenger in the event of a head-on collision. Side and head airbags reduce the risk of injuries to the head, chest and pelvic regions in any side-on impact.

Given all the unparalleled safety features, the MINI One offers customers exceptional road handling.

Competitive pricing

The retail price of the new MINI One is R198 000, which includes VAT and CO2 tax.

Head and shoulders above the competition

The MINI One, just like all MINI models, shares distinctive characteristics born out of the origins and tradition of a leading premium car brand, a concept geared towards delivering maximum driving fun, an appreciation of individual style and a commitment to premium quality. Expressive design incorporating the contemporary interpretation of historical features and an exceptional level of technology as well as workmanship lifts the MINI One head and shoulders above the competition in its segment.