2007 MINI

(BMW uses capital letters to differentiate their car from the 'classic' Mini.)

There had been speculation that the next MINI would be all new. But recent photos show just a mild face-lift so that the car can pass new European pedestrian impact rules. The new interior will be an evolution of the current design, but the big changes are under the bonnet, where there will be a new 4 valve engine developed by BMW and Peugeot, and assembled in England with blocks made in France.

The engine in my 2004 Cooper S was designed by Chrysler and built in South America. It's saddled with a very heavy flywheel to make it feel more refined, and that makes the engine slow to gain revs. The acceleration is good, but the fuel economy could be better.

Categories:Cars