New Mini (hi-res pic)

[PeaveyBassist]

Anyone who is bangin the FWD hasnt driven one in anger. They really dont handle like your typical FWD car.

True story. I drove one today at work. Goofy auto trannys too.

Will

[bmw_e30]

I'm looking forward to when the next generation Mini is released......there will be two flavors again (standard and "S" versions). The hi-perf. model will be getting a turbo engine developed by Peugeot. Not sure of the capacity or output claims, but a turbo mill should be more tunable than a supercharged one.

As for the Mini's styling, its grown on me over the years. I am amazed at how much room it has inside and the hatch config. definately makes it a practical ride for daily use. The FWD does have its drawbacks but a little chassis tuning can really liven things up.

Jon

The diesel engines for the next gen Mini are mostly Peugeot's. And the gas engines are mostly BMW's design. So we're getting a proper BMW motor, not a Dodge/BMW hybrid like the current Mini, which is a great engine nonetheless.

As for styling. I love how the Mini looks and drives. It looks the way it does because of engine packaging, if it were made RWD it wouldn't look the same. I love the JCW package, red mirrors and all. Even the rims are great, plus they cool the brakes down better than any of the other rim options.

And it drives really nice for FWD. I would take one over the other hot hatches like the GTI/Si any day. Plus a little tuning and they're good to go.