BMW Malaysia Launch 2nd Generation of the modern MINI

BMW Malaysia Launch 2nd Generation of the modern MINI

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Kuala Lumpur, 23 March 2007 – MINI alert swept throughout the The Sultan Abdul Aziz Airport today as BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd launched the highly anticipated new MINI, giving enthusiasts the next evolution of the iconic automobile.

Making its debut in Malaysia with two models, the MINI Cooper and the MINI Cooper S, the New MINI continues the success of its predecessor by offering a highly sophisticated vehicle boasting new technology, premium substance and the quintessential MINI flair.

Farid Sulaiman, MINI Manager gave an insight into the thought process behind the creation of the New MINI.

“From the original to the original” – this was the philosophy in creating the body design of the new MINI. So it was with this in mind that the entire car has been completely re-designed from the ground up, with many details and features being modified and enhanced in the process. This was the same principle when we designed the first new MINI and it continues with the second generation making it instantly timeless and recognizable, while offering a hugely improved vehicle in terms of driving, safety and comfort” said Sulaiman.

The new MINI is larger and roomier than its predecessor yet it still retains the typical character and premium standard of the brand. Seen from the side, the new MINI is firm, taut and striking, resting powerfully on its wheels in a look well-known to friends and aficionados of the brand as that typical “stance on the wheels”. A characteristic feature is the seemingly uninterrupted “flow” of windows around the car, adorning the new MINI like a complete, 360° band of glass.

Inside, the new MINI has been fundamentally revised and updated. The central element in the new MINI is the Center Speedo now even larger in size and with an enhanced range of functions serving far more purposes and requirements than on the former model.

The greatest change in the new MINI is in the new engines that were designed specifically for the unique needs of MINI driving. The MINI Cooper S is powered by a brand-new 1.6-litre turbocharged engine developing maximum output of no less than 175 hp. This superior power is provided by a twin-scroll turbocharger which can build up extra power and boost with virtually no delay even from low engine speeds. Consequently, the MINI Cooper S develops power and performance in a style quite exceptional for an engine of this size: Maximum torque of 240 Nm is maintained consistently between 1, 600 and 5, 000 rpm, and when accelerating all-out torque is raised to an even higher peak of 260 Nm by a brief increase in charge pressure (overboost). All this, with lower consumption than its predecessor.

The MINI Cooper boasts a normally aspirated1.6-litre four-cylinder with a maximum output of120 hp, and peak torque of 160 Nm. Incorporating BMW Group’s advanced VALVETRONIC technology, the engine offers electronic precision to meet the driver’s requirements in terms of power and performance.

A key component of the MINI is its legendary go-kart-like handling and agility and in the new MINI, this quality has been further enhanced with an optimized suspension system featuring light-weight materials, a multi-link rear axle system and technology that is unique to the MINI in this segment.

Electric Power Assisted Steering (EPAS) provides speed-related power assistance which guarantees low steering forces when parking but at the same time, creates precise responses when traveling at high speeds. In addition to this, a sports button which comes standard in the 2nd generation MINI gives the power-assisted steering an even sturdier edge and more bite when driving at higher speeds.

Befitting its premium status, the New MINI comes fully-equipped with an integrated safety system comprising active and passive safety systems which includes 6 airbags, Runflat indicators, Beltforce limiters and tensioners, Electronic immobilizers, Brake Assist and Safety Steering Column. Safety is further ensured by ABS anti-lock brakes, EBD Electronic Brake Force Distribution, Cornering Brake Control (CBC) as well as Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) which comes standard in all variants. Additionally, Automatic Stability and Traction Control (ASC+T) and Run-flat tyres on the MINI Cooper S help to provide superior driving and tracking stability in an extreme situation.

Interior-wise, both the MINI Cooper and MINI Cooper S Convertible are fitted with exclusive materials to match its classy exterior. High-quality textile materials and surfaces give the interior special harmony and balance. The seat upholstery is available in ‘Ray’ cloth and leather combination for the MINI Cooper while the MINI Cooper S has the choice of being dressed in ‘Gravity’ Leather or ‘Punch’ leather.

True to MINI’s promise of being the most exciting car around, the MINI boasts a wide-range of special equipment to fulfil individual wishes and desires. Standard equipment are, xenon headlights (MINI Cooper S), a high-quality MINI Hi-Fi loudspeaker system (MINI Cooper S), sports suspension (MINI Cooper S), radio MINI boost CD changer and new mood ambient illumination that allows for the interior lighting of the MINI to create 5 colour settings in the car.

Of greatly significant import to customers is the introduction of Tender, Loving, Care – MINI’s service inclusive program where MINI customers need not have to pay for maintenance of their MINI for 3 years or 50,000km. Obtained with an additional RM888; Tender, Loving, Care covers all aspects of the MINI excluding tire wear and fuel. “This is a first for MINI here and we think it offers an unbeatable total ownership experience. MINI customers can now have complete peace of mind when it comes to the cost of maintenance,” said Sulaiman.

The new MINI is built in a team made up of three British plants in the BMW Group production network in Oxford, Swindon and hams Hall. These three plants from a closely-knit production system, a highly integrated structure further enhanced in recent years by the BMW Group investing some GBP 200 million in the expansion and modernisation of plant facilities.

The New MINI Cooper and New MINI Cooper S will be available from the authorised dealers nationwide beginning 23 March 2007. The retail prices (on the road, without insurance) for the MINI Cooper and MINI Cooper S are RM 195,000 and RM 239,000 respectively with an additional RM888 for the Tender, Loving, Care service program.

About MINI

Mini, one of history’s most popular icons, began its public life on the 26 August 1959. Designed by Sir Alec Issigonis, Mini was, in its purest form, a car that was simple, clean, agile and appealing to everyone. During its heyday in the 1960s, Mini was widely accepted as UK’s most popular car and amazed everyone with its world-class performances at Monte Carlo rallies. In 1994, the BMW Group acquired the brand Mini, setting in motion the revitalisation of this much loved icon. In 2000, a new chapter began when the BMW Group unveiled the brand new MINI (all in caps, reflecting the relaunch) to the world with three models: MINI One, MINI Cooper and MINI Cooper S. MINI’s success story continues today, charming fans and enthusiasts in more than 70 countries around the world.


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