Next-generation Mini coming in 2015

BMW Group unveiled the next-generation Mini range of cars globally in November last year. This 3rd generation of BMW Mini cars will be available in India from next year and the company has kicked off the promotional activities.

As a part of these promotional activities, select individuals will be allowed to drive the 2015 Mini in India, and may be even before the official launch. For more details on the contest, log on to www.miniepicdrive.com

The new Mini is based on the UKL platform which is even shared by a few BMW models. The car is now taller, wider and longer than before. Cabin space has been improved too and the car will be a comfortable commuter even for taller occupants.

India will get the 3-door Cooper and 5-door Countryman models. The 3-door Cooper will be available as a convertible model as well. Engine duties would be performed by a 1.5L, 3-cylinder petrol motor producing 134 BHP of power and a 1.5L, 3-cylinder diesel motor producing 114 BHP of power. Both these engines will be mated to a 6-speed manual and automatic transmission (automatic only highly likely for India). The Cooper S will be powered by a 4-cylinder petrol motor producing 189 BHP of power mated to the same 6-speed gearbox. Both these models are front-wheel driven.

BMW will continue to bring in the Mini range as completely built units and they would fight against the Mercedes-Benz A-Class, BMW 1 Series and the upcoming Fiat 500 Abarth.

Pricing for the Mini range is expected to begin in the range of Rs. 25 lakh