With the addition of the Clubman, there is a MINI to suit all tastes. The cars come as 2-door hardtops, longer Clubman wagons and as convertibles. The base powertrain across the range is a normally aspirated 1.6L 4-cylinder engine. In the hardtop models the engine is capable of 118 hp, while the ragtop sees 115 hp. Transmission options in the hard top models is either a standard 6-speed Getrag manual or a 6-speed automatic with steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters. In the convertible, either a 5-speed manual or continuously variable transmission (CVT) with clutchless manual Steptronic are available.
The Cooper S adds an additional level of performance to the MINI, again available across the range. The S is powered by a 172-hp turbocharged version of the 1.6L (168 hp in the convertible). Six-speeds are the norm on S cars, with either the standard manual or an available automatic. S models also feature 16-inch alloys and sport-tuned suspension for increased agility and responsiveness.
New for 2009 is an exciting 207-hp turbocharged 4-cylinder of the John Cooper Works cars. The 6-speed manual is the only transmission available. Currently available in the hardtop and Clubman, the JCW adds 17-inch alloys, an even more aggressive suspension and big, heavy-duty brakes. Also included in the package are stability and traction control, special exterior and interior appointments, and supportive sport seats.
MINIs are almost endlessly customizable, with a broad palette of exterior and interior color combinations and several cockpit materials. They are also available with a long list of options packages, which add features like an electric sunroof with twin glass front and back, automatic air conditioning, fog lamps, Bluetooth hands-free communication, auto rain-sensing wipers as well as heated seats and mirrors.
All MINI Coopers come standard with six air bags, antilock brakes, electronic brakeforce distribution and brake control and daytime running lamps.