I bought the latest issue of EVO (british sports car mag sold here in New Jersey in major bookstores). On page 20 is an article that BMW plans to give the Mini a slight facelight to coincide with the launch of the Mini Convertible in the summer of 2004. I would assume the 2005 model. The minor facelift will happen to both the Mini and the MCS, but the article only goes into detail about the MCS. The MCS will have a different front bumper, possibly a more pronounced rear roof spoiler. BMW is still experimenting with the new rear spoiler. It may be higher or lower than the current one. Bigger wheels and brakes are also a possibility.

The new Mini convertible will feature framless wind-down windows for the rear passengers and rollover bars for safety. EVO fears that cutting the roof on the Mini will comprise the handling and, of course, the convertible will be heavier.

The next generation Mini is due in late 2006. A five door and Mini-MPV are being considered in addition to the current hatchback and convertible. A Peugeot built engine will eventually replace the current Chrysler engine.

The facelight doesn't sound like a big deal, and I'm glad the first major redesign won't be until 2006. Don't want my 03 to look dated already. Not sure what I think of the upcoming convertible. I'll have to wait to see it in person. I think we will see a five door Mini sometime in the future.

RaceCarDriver

 

2006 will be a great time to replace my '03 MCS with the new Peugeot powerplant. I can only imagine what it will be, but I would like to see something at least equivalent to the JCW Works kit as standard for the "S".

 

If you want to take a look at pictures and specs of all that's upcoming from MINI check out all these recent posts on my site:

http://www.bridger.us/mini/?Y=2003&M...resThe2005MINI

http://www.bridger.us/mini/?Y=2004&M...INIGetsAPrince

http://www.bridger.us/mini/?Y=2004&M...nCentralLondon

http://www.bridger.us/mini/?Y=2004&M...rCabrioSpotted

http://www.bridger.us/mini/?Y=2004&M...teriorRevealed

 

I think that this generation Mini will be looked at as a classic. I don't see how the styling could get any better, so I'm not worried.

 

If the next gen MINI is due late '06 it will obviously be an '07 model. And if MINI stays true to form the upgrades/improvements/changes won't all take place at once but probably throughout '07. I agree that the current design will be viewed as a modern classic!

 

I just hope that they take an "evolution, not revolution" approach. Kind of like the way the Porsche 911 design has evolved over the last 40 years.

 

I would think Mini is smart enough to evolve the species properly. Hopefully, at least. I think the smoothing of the interior panels and mild changes for 2005 are in order. What I'd like to see, tho, for the next generation is a better engine line. The current engine (xpsecially the base engine!) is ok, but nothing special IMHO. Also, the diesel powerplant is low in the power department (perhaps they could do a joint-venture with VW for a 1.6L diesel?)- something for U.S. spec???

While the MCS isn't about straight line power, IMHO, I'd at least like to see 0-60 times in the 6 second range. Making it a sharp-handling pocket rocket... Oh wait, I can do that now with a pulley, intake and ECU upgrade

Of course price, hmmmmm, with the exchange rates and demand... I would not be surprised if the base MSRP was $22,000+, with a fully speced MCS going out the door for $30,000

 

I'm extremely curious about the 2006/7 MCS.
My gut says the design change will be.... subtle... but time will tell.
I'm hoping the "quality" issues will be addressed as we go forward in time.
I'm not too sure about the look of the 2005 ragtop...I flip-flop on my opinion :smile:
I've stated this in various posts....that I would like a 30-40k base MCS.
Just my personal opinion :smile:
One of the many reasons I purchased my 2002 MCS was the fact that it was the "1st" model in the states. It should be a collectable....one day :smile: ?
I'm equally interested in the 1st.... newly designed MCS model in 2006/7
I wonder where the design team will take this car????

Peace,
D

 

I don't know if I like the watering down of the product line by adding more models. I like the classic look of the car that we have now. I think the new ones will continue to look more modern. I also like the exclusivity of the car at this point. Bringing in a convertible, 5-door, MVP and who knows what else next (maybe an SUV!) will damage the line, in my opinion.

I think the convertible will not handle as well and will be heavier making it slower than it is already. Will not be a car for enthusiasts, but teenage girls.

It has been pretty well reported that the Puegot engine will probably be around 170hp, so not much different than we have now. I am not sure if the quality of the Puegot will be as good or better than the Chrysler that we have now. The Chrysler has won lots of awards and is regarded as a pretty strong engine for this car. I don't know if the same can be said of the Peugot.

 

This should help clarify (that and the links within): http://www.mini2.com/news/news201.html

The new engine is supposed to be a good improvement on the current unit, I've spoken to some who've experienced it, all good so far.

:smile:

 

Those are great shots of the upcoming convertible too on that page. Hadn't seen those before

 

Don't have my MCS yet, so considered waiting for the convertable, 10 months or more to go, sure,... I can do that... ahkkk! NOT!

I think the drop top is kinda cute, with the top down. Don't like the looks with top up, even living in So. Cal. sometimes ya need the top up. It will probably sell ok, many people would like an inexpensive fun/sun ride. As far as effects on performance, well, up until recently, I didn't think I cared. I can feel that changing.

I don't think the current MCS needs a facelift, I like it the way it is. From what I've read, if any thing needs changing it's a quality, not a looks issue.

Cheers,
Shelly

 

Why are they switching to a turbocharger?

 

>>I think that this generation Mini will be looked at as a classic. I don't see how the styling could get any better, so I'm not worried.


Completely agree with you

 

>>>>I think that this generation Mini will be looked at as a classic. I don't see how the styling could get any better, so I'm not worried.
>>
>>
>>Completely agree with you

Me too! Anything that makes the car more fun to drive (horsepower, breaks, handling), would be great. But, the styling... I think they've done the absolute best of updating a classic. If they continue to 'evolve' the styling too much, they risk weakening that nostalgic link to the classic MINI. If that happens, it could be that these 1st generation, new MINIs will become classis in their own right. Also, if the price starts climbing on the new models, that might help keep the resale value for these.

I might consider moving to a newer model only if its more fun to drive, if the increased price is worth the performance/handling gains, and if the styling doesn't change too much.