2008 MINI Cooper

NEW FOR 2008:

- New Clubman and Clubman S models

- One-touch window-up feature

- Mini Cooper adds standard on-board computer and optional Comfort Package and Convenience Package; Sport Package deletes Anthracite headliner and white indicator lights

- Mini Cooper Classic deletes Premium Package and adds Classic Convenience Package, including heated front seats and front and rear fog lights; multifunction steering wheel with cruise control is no longer available; only stand-alone option available on Classic is six-speed automatic transmission

- Mini Cooper S adds standard on-board computer; Technology Package and Premium Package replaced with Navigation Package, Comfort Package and Convenience Package; automatic climate control is no longer available as a stand-alone option; metallic paint, auto-dimming interior mirror and rain sensor with automatic headlamps become optional rather than standard equipment

- New Media Connect option includes Bluetooth hands-free telephone system and USB audio integration

- Interior colours: Carbon Black Punch Leather, Tuscan Beige Leather, Carbon Black Lounge Leather and Redwood Red Lounge Leather added to Mini Cooper

- Exterior colour: White Silver Metallic added to Sidewalk Package

For 2008, the Mini coupe and convertible undergo minor changes, most notably to its available option packages. Prices drop from 2007 levels on coupe models and are unchanged for convertible models.

Mini will also offer a new model, the Clubman, in the spring of 2008. Based on the configuration of the Morris Mini Traveller, Austin Mini Countryman and Mini Clubman Estate of the 1960s, the Clubman and Clubman S will feature a lengthened roofline that extends over all three pillars, a longer overall length and more generous cabin, and two rear-opening doors with exterior hinges.

The Mini is available as a coupe, in Cooper Classic, Cooper and Cooper S trim lines, and as a convertible, in Cooper and Cooper S configuration. The coupe models use a 1.6-litre DOHC four-cylinder engine that's turbocharged in the Cooper S, with six-speed manual or optional six-speed automatic. The convertibles use a 1.6-litre SOHC four-cylinder engine with five-speed manual or optional CVT in the Cooper, and supercharged 1.6-litre in the Cooper S, with six-speed manual or optional six-speed automatic.

Features on the Cooper Classic include 15-inch alloy wheels, air conditioning, speed-sensitive steering, automatic stability control, traction control, heated mirrors, heated washer jets, rear wiper, tire pressure warning, keyless entry, rear roof spoiler, eight-way manual seats, leather-wrapped tilt and telescopic wheel, cargo cover, "leatherette" upholstery, power windows, trip computer and CD/MP3 stereo.

The Cooper adds 16-inch alloy wheels, dynamic stability control, hill start assist, front and rear fog lights, and on-board computer.

The Cooper S adds larger front brake discs, sport button, automatic bi-Xenon headlamps with washers, chrome fuel filler door, twin exhaust tips, white turn signal indicator lenses, sport seats, multifunction steering wheel and stainless steel footrest.

The Cooper Clubman and Cooper S Clubman are outfitted similarly to the Cooper and Cooper S models.

Features on the Cooper Convertible include 15-inch alloy wheels, air conditioning, speed-sensitive steering, Xenon headlamps with washers, heated mirrors, park distance control, heated washer jets, speed-sensitive wipers, seat-mounted head protection airbag system, keyless entry, automatic soft top with heated glass rear window, multifunction leather-wrapped tilt wheel, cloth or "leatherette" seats, six-way manual seats, power windows and CD/MP3 stereo.

The Cooper S Convertible adds 16-inch alloy wheels, sport suspension, twin exhaust tips, white side marker turn signal lenses, six-way manual sport seats, and stainless steel pedals.

Still as much fun as when it was first launched, the Mini offers go-kart steering, sharp acceleration, stiff chassis and an interior that's very comfortable for front-seat passengers but tight for those in the rear seat. The convertible ups the fun level with its drop top, although rear visibility is poor once it's folded down. The new Clubman will round out this retro rocket, and there's a "sport activity vehicle" in the pipeline as well.