Giannis
Staff member
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The MINI brand is possibly the best proof that downsizing can still be massive fun. And with today's announcement, downsizing to a MINI will be even more fun and even more economical. For starters, the future MINI line-up will be getting the latest "Twin Power Turbo" three and four cylinder engines from BMW, with a 1.5l and 2.0l displacement respectively. Both engines feature direct fuel injection, variable camshaft control on both the intake and outlet sides (dual VANOS) and the more powerful versions even have BMW's fully variable valve control system, the VALVETRONIC. The diesel engines also have a turbocharger and the latest generation common rail direct injection.
All engines were designed for transverse layout configuration and are EU6 compliant. Extensive use of aluminum in areas like the crankshaft and the cylinder head ensures an important weight reduction, while integrated countershafts reduce engine vibrations. The 3 cylinder petrol variant comes with 1.5l of displacement, 100 kW/ 136 hp and 220 Nm of torque from as low as 1250 rpm increased by 10 Nm thanks to an overboost function. The diesel version generates 85 kW/ 116 hp and a maximum torque of 270 Nm with the same displacement and the use of a 2.000 bar injection system. Finally, the 2.0l four cylinder engine has an output of 141 kW/ 192 hp and 280 Nm of torque (300 Nm with overboost).
The turbocharger is integrated in the exhaust manifold allowing a shorter part for the exhaust gasses. As a result, the charging system's inertia is reduced significantly, helping with the reduction of lag. Power is sent to the front wheels through either a 6 speed manual or an automatic transmission, both newly developed. The manual one, now comes with a rev-matching feature, which synchronizes the engine speed according to the gear change.
Moreover,what appears to be an a la M4 slow publication of information about the soon to be unveiled new MINI hatchback, reveals that the new hatch will be based on a completely redesigned chassis, yet with the same suspension set-up as before; single link spring strut axle in front and multi-link axle at the rear. The devil being in the details, though, various components' optimization, clever reduction of unsprung mass, new aerodynamically optimized wheel designs, and underflow design as well as friction-optimized wheel bearings enhance the car's sporty feel and agility, while, at the same time, reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.
The new MINI hatch will also feature electromechanical power steering (EPS) replacing the old hydraulic system, with a new speed-dependent steering assist. We also read that advances are also made in the braking system, which cover the areas of cooling and lifespan of the components. On top of that, for the first time, electrically adjustable dampers will be offered from MINI, allowing for a variable response to uneven road surfaces. The traction and compression levels of the dampers will be easily changed with the flip of a switch, as the driver will be able to choose between the two modes - comfort and sport.
Finally, we have positive news for the passive safety and pedestrian protection area as well. While the overall weight is reduced, structural rigidity is increased, due to optimized design and high-strength, multi-phase steel usage, securing the survival space of the passengers. An active engine cover, with in English is a normal hood with a pyrotechnical trigger mechanism, creates a yielding crumple zone that absorbs the impact energy in case of a collision with a pedestrian, while protecting him/ her from hitting harder parts of the vehicle, at the same time.
The new MINI hatchback is scheduled to debut later this fall, alongside many other BMW Group models. The coming October will be a very busy month, as on 25 we will be learning more about the upcoming 2 series coupe.
Source: [BMW]
