Is it possible to import one of the for-Europe made Mini's and use it here, specifically the Mini D? I read somewhere about a Mini D hybrid (diesel/electric) that will get 65mpg. I just dont get it. If the technology is out there why not bring it here (besides the obvious money-hungry-oil- company-monopoly issue)? is it just becuase the fuel is different?

 

From what I have ben told and read on this forum it's because diesel is different overseas. Something about the octane is differant. Maybe one day. I just want a MINI D hood. It's the same as an S hood but with out the scoop.

 

I thought as of '06 that the US had the same low-sulfur diesel. I think it's just the constructors' (manufacturers') perceptions of the US market that is holding back more diesels. VW's diesels sales are setting records. Their diesel Jetta commercial kicks butt. I laugh out loud at the hybrid owner's imitation of his car's sound, and Max's (the classic VW Beatle's) gracious, "that's cool." Gotta love Crispin Porter + Bogusky's ads; sure miss 'em since they left MINI for VW.

 

When it does get here, I'll have a new Mini. That MPG + Mini = Ultimate Fun.

 

Thats my point kkc. Why do we have to wait for it to get here? If its already availble, why cant we buy it overseas and ship it here today? If we wait, not sure it'll ever get here. If mainstream America doesnt buy into the diesel idea, the manufacture will never send them over here.

 

From the reading about this subject what I gather is that Mini has not broken the nut on the emissions controls associated with rules/laws and the clean air act with regard to their diesal engines. That is the only hold-up from what I've read thus far. THey also have concerns that Americans will not buy the Diesel versions. I've never owned a diesel engine, but I'd buy one in a Mini.