The Mini gets AWD for 2009

[Lowerd1]

Sounds like the Mini will become even more fun in 2009.


BMW will offer all-wheel-drive as an option on all of its 2008 Mini models, according to a report by Germany's Auto Motor und Sport. The magazine said the system was developed for the extended-wheelbase Clubman, but would find its way into the rest of the 2008/2009 lineup.

In late 2004, a Dutch media report indicated Germany's Getrag auto parts maker was testing an AWD system for the compact car. The prototype was created on Getrag's own initiative, but BMW officials were said to be following the design study closely. Getrag supplies BMW with transmissions.

BMW product boss Burkhard Goschel reportedly took a ride in the prototype, and was very positive about its performance. The AWD system tested by Getrag featured a heavy rear-wheel bias, with the front wheels engaging as needed. It's not known if the production AWD system is the same as the one tested by Getrag.

[SupaRice]

It'll just make it heavy, and slow.

[Bob-E]

I bet it won't have a front lsd, which will make it suk. I'd like to drive a new Mini though. Are they fun?

[eric96ser]

I autocrossed an S, and it didn't feel all that great to me.

[tnsyty]

The S/C minis are fun, but they are already way too heavy. I am going to drive the new turbocharged mini when it is available (should be very soon). The mini got a little bigger this year also. Do not even bother driving the regular model with the CVT. It is sow to the point that it is dangerous.

[Lowerd1]

The new mini is exactly what the PT Cruiser was, its a cute car that makes you think of the old. The Mini just pulls it off better than the PT Cruiser. The mini can handle good, but nothing like the old mini. Its Fat and overpriced for what it is. I like the AWD with RWD biased idea, but not on the mini which can already creep easily past $30K with options. Throw in the Works package and however much this AWD system cost and you are creeping close to $40K probably for a Small Hatchback.

I don't know who Mini is trying to appeal to with the AWD system, but it sure is not their core buyers. Maybe they want to go Rally Racing and compete with the Imprezas and Lancers, which would be fun to see. Its just speculation right now on why they are doing this.

[Jason F]

As far as handling they either dominate or come close to domination in their classes in National SCCA competition. The 05 and up S models with the limited slip are major overdogs in their class and the non S models also do very well although they have a little more close competition in their classes.

[SupaRice]

I saw this in MotorTrend the other day, looks like a crossover SUV. Although the drawing they had was a little bit different.

Mini "Moke"
http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2006/11/mini_concept_detroit.jpg

[Chandler]

I think its interesting, but total bastardization of the original intention of the Mini. The car was designed to be a great handling lightweight front wheel drive car. This will put it further away from that than ever before.


worked for teh Lancer...

[GLHS592]

Every time I see a man driving a Mini Cooper, I can't help but laugh. :ghey:

[Jason F]

Every time I see a man driving a Mini Cooper, I can't help but laugh. :ghey:

Off Topic warning....

I know this type of thinking is somewhat common but anyone that says it drops several points in my book and I lose a decent bit of respect for them. Same thing when I here similar comments from a person that commutes 40 miles a day in a big dually diesel truck saying that "They refuse to drive some itty bitty crap truck".

Cars and trucks are tools. We may use some of them as a tool of entertainment and enjoyment but still a tool. Use the right tool for the job. if it is a good car or truck then it is a good car or truck period. You may not like the style of said vehicle and that is fine, don't buy it. A Mini is great car: fairly well built, good interior room, good handling for a FWD car, good after market, easy to park, and good MPG. It may be a bit overpriced but some folks can afford to spend the money on what they like.

Personally I can't afford a Mini. My wife does like them and I could enjoy driving one on occasion so if finances permit we may get one for her in the future as a replacement for her Honda.

[Chandler]

ireally dont care ... just thought that i would take a poke at you......

[GLHS592]

I know this type of thinking is somewhat common but anyone that says it drops several points in my book and I lose a decent bit of respect for them.

I'll probably lose sleep over it. :rolleyes: It's a message forum. People kid around, ya know.

[Jason F]

I don't take it all that seriously and I did not give it much thought with you since I already know you to have a varied (from the norm) interest in slightly quirky car choices. It was just a comment on how annoying it is to hear those types of comments from people who truly hold that type of mentality.

[Chandler]

Don't RIB me, because I know your weakness now hobag! It doesn't matter if you have a level 14 black belt in nei-jitsu-umabish-kwon-do of whatever the flip it is. All I have to do is make you laugh and you'll be in painful agony. :naughty:


:lol: ........ouch............