The All-New MINI Performance Handling & Safety
Published: 17th August 2006
MINI Cooper S
Chassis and Sports Suspension
As with the first generation, spring and damper settings tune the chassis and suspension set-up of the new MINI Cooper S to be firmer and more dynamic than the MINI Cooper. As an option both models are available with an identical Sports Suspension set-up, comprising harder springs, dampers and anti-roll bars.
Front-wheel drive, a low centre of gravity, a long wheelbase, wide track, short body overhangs, a stiff bodyshell and the firm suspension all interact to determine MINI’s unique go-kart feeling.
The front axle is based on the MacPherson spring strut principle and features an anti-roll bar to reduce body sway to an absolute minimum. The central-arm rear axle is new to MINI and unique in this segment. Its longitudinal track control arms are made of aluminium that reduces weight by 6 kilos over the former model.
Benefiting from the sophisticated kinematics of the new suspension, the wheels offer improved grip over even more extreme cambers. The rear axle is equipped with an anti-roll bar on both model variants that makes a decisive contribution to the car’s famed agility, poise and safe handling.
New electromechanical power-assisted steering
The new EPAS (Electric Power-Assisted Steering) makes a significant contribution to the pin-point behaviour of the new MINI. Speed-related power assistance guarantees low steering forces when parking and, at the same time, precise responses at high speeds on the motorway.
The electric system offers the driver a choice of two different steering control maps. The standard set-up ensures a well-balanced steering response in all speed ranges. The second map is activated when the Sport button is pressed and the power steering becomes even more direct. The electronic map for the accelerator is also modified by the Sport button to give a more instant response.
Run-flats as standard on MINI Cooper S
The MINI Cooper comes as standard with 15-inch light-alloy rims and 175/65 R 15 tyres. Run-flat tyres are standard on the MINI Cooper S that has 16-inch light-alloy rims running on 195/65 R 16 tyres. In the event of a puncture, Run-flat tyres allow drivers to continue their journey for 90 miles at speeds of up to 50mph. Run-flats also provide stability in the event of a blow-out or sudden deflation. Seventeen-inch rims running on 205/45 R Run-flat 17 tyres are available as an option on both models.
Safety at all times
Both models feature a wide range of safety features. Six airbags are standard consisting of front, side and curtain head airbags for the driver and front passenger. The extra-large curtain airbags (integrated in the roof lining) offer optimum protection from head injuries for the rear passengers.
Active safety is ensured in critical situations by ABS anti-lock brakes, EBD Electronic Brake Force Distribution and CBC Cornering Brake Control as standard on both models. ASC+T Automatic Stability Control + Traction is standard on the MINI Cooper S with on-off control by the driver, and as an option DSC Dynamic Stability Control.
Included within the option of DSC is Hill Assist. This feature holds a manual MINI on the brake when setting off on a gradient to prevent it from rolling back.
Passive safety was another primary aim of the new MINI’s designers and the new car offers all the prerequisites for optimum results in crash tests.
The transverse engine of the new MINI combined with the extra-large deformation zones at the front absorbs most of the impact forces in the event of a collision. Highly stable crossbars and reinforced door structures also help to keep impact energy away from the passenger cell. The same effect is provided by the front axle absorbing energy and passing impact forces on through the floor of the car.
The electric fuel pump is switched off automatically in the case of a severe accident to prevent any chance of a fuel fire. At the same time the central locking is opened and both the interior lights and hazard warning flashers are immediately activated to attract attention.
Welcome to the next MINI adventure. Full specification and technical details will be issued at the time of the new MINI’s debut at this year’s Paris motor show.
For more information on the All-New MINI [ click here ]
