VOLKSWAGEN TO DEBUT THE FUEL-EFFICENT BEETLE TDI® AT THE CHICAGO AUTO SHOW
The Beetle coupe range is rounded out by the thrifty TDI Clean Diesel model
The most fuel-efficient 21st Century Beetle, with predicted fuel economy of 29 mpg city, 39 mpg highway
Beetle TDI goes on sale this summer as a 2013 model
The first Beetle TDI Clean Diesel model since 2006
Available in three well-appointed trim levels
Choice of six-speed manual or dual-clutch DSG® transmissions
Herndon, VA – The Volkswagen Beetle 2.5L and Turbo were launched to great acclaim from
both consumers and the media in 2011. At the Chicago Auto Show, VW will unveil the third
model in the Beetle lineup: the fuel-efficient TDI Clean Diesel model, which has manufacturer
fuel economy estimates of 39 mpg on the highway and 29 mpg in the city. The Beetle TDI, the
only Clean Diesel offering in the compact coupe category, will go on sale this summer as a
2013 model. Pricing will be announced closer to launch.
Engine and Transmission
The biggest difference between the TDI and other Beetle models lies, obviously, under the
hood. The Beetle TDI uses the company’s 2.0-liter turbocharged, direct-injection Clean Diesel
engine that makes 140 horsepower and 236 pound-feet of torque. Volkswagen pioneered the
use of turbocharging and direct injection in diesel engines and continues to lead the industry
in this technology.
This isn’t the first Beetle to be sold in the U.S. market with a diesel engine. From 1998 until 2006, the New Beetle was fitted with a 1.9-liter turbocharged four-cylinder diesel engine. Since then, this engine has been heavily revised to accommodate increasing demand for improvements in exhaust emissions and acoustics. One of the most fundamental improvements was converting the fuel-injection system to a common-rail design, as well as increasing the capacity by 72 cc thanks to a 1.5-mm wider bore.
The current engine features a cast-iron cylinder block and an aluminum-alloy cylinder head. It also utilizes some subtle design elements that contribute to longevity and the reduction of noise, vibration, and harshness. The forged steel crankshaft, for instance, uses just four counterweights, instead of eight, to reduce bearing load and noise emissions. The pistons incorporate annular channels into which oil is sprayed for cooling the piston-ring zone. A pair of counter-rotating balancer shafts is situated below the crankshaft in the oil pan.
Dual overhead camshafts are driven via a toothed belt that also powers the coolant pump and the high-pressure fuel-injection pump. The cams themselves are linked by means of spur gears that have an integrated backlash adjuster that helps to ensure quiet operation. Each cylinder has two intake and two exhaust valves.
The TDI engine’s intake manifold uses flap valves that are powered by a step motor that is in turn activated by the Engine Control Module (ECM). At idle and low engine speeds, the flap valves are closed in order to cause high swirl into the combustion chamber, which results in optimal mixture. During regular driving, the flap valves are adjusted continuously according to load and engine speed to ensure optimum air movement; above 3000 rpm, the valves open fully for maximum filling of the combustion chamber.
The engine’s turbocharger features adjustable guide vanes that maintain the best aspect ratio for low- and high-speed performance. In order to meet current tailpipe emissions standards in all 50 states, the engine makes use of both high- and low-pressure exhaust gas recirculation over all engine speeds, as well as an exhaust system that has a particulate filter and no fewer than three catalytic convertors: for oxidation, oxides of nitrogen (NOx), and hydrogen sulfide.
The engine is mated to either a six-speed manual transmission or VW’s innovative, dual-clutch DSG six-speed automatic. DSG combines the comfort and ease-of-use of an automatic, with the responsiveness and economy of a manual. The six-speed, transversely-mounted DSG unit features two wet clutches with hydraulic pressure regulation. One clutch controls the ‘odd’ gears-first, third, fifth and reverse-while the other operates the even gears. Essentially it is two gearboxes in one.
With DSG, the set-up allows the next-higher gear to be engaged but remain on standby until it is actually selected. In other words, if the Beetle is being driven in third gear, fourth is selected but not yet activated. As soon as the ideal shift point is reached, the clutch on the third-gear side opens, the other clutch closes and fourth gear engages under accurate electronic supervision.
Since the opening and closing actions of the two clutches overlap, a smooth gearshift results and the entire shift process is completed in less than four-hundredths of a second. In addition to its fully automatic shift mode, DSG has a Tiptronic® function to permit manual gear selection.
Design
The latest Beetle is more dramatic, with a stronger masculine design than the New Beetle that was sold between 1998 and 2010. The car breaks free of the design geometry defined by three semi-circles-front fender, rear fender, and domed roof above it. The roof profile actually runs distinctly lower and can be considered a development of the Ragster concept car shown in Detroit in 2005.
The 2012 Beetle is 71.2 inches wide (3.3 inches wider), 58.5 inches tall (0.5 inches lower) and 168.4 inches long (7.3 inches longer). The new focal point is the C-pillar. The development team also increased the car’s track widths and wheelbase. The changed proportions give the Beetle a powerful and dynamic appearance. The TDI differs externally from the 2.5 and Turbo in having unique 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, TDI badging, and a chrome trim line that caps the top of the door’s sheetmetal.
Inside, the car is distinctively styled, with colors and shapes that harken back to the original Beetle’s interior. Three round gauges are arranged in front of the driver (tachometer, speedometer, fuel gauge), providing key information at a glance. A multifunction display is integrated in the speedometer, which is housed in the central position in the binnacle. All TDIs gain a supplementary instrument pod that has oil temperature and turbo boost gauges and a stopwatch. Similar to the original Beetle, the car has an extra glovebox integrated into the dashboard-the kaeferfach or “Beetle bin”. The lid folds upward, while the standard glove box opens downward.
Even though the “cathedral ceiling” dome roof of the New Beetle has been replaced with a sleek and sporty roofline, front and rear passenger headroom remains plentiful. The longer roof section results in 0.4 inches more rear-seat headroom. Front legroom is improved, too, by 1.9 inches, and front shoulder room grows by 2.5 inches. Overall, the interior volume has increased from 81 to 85 cubic feet.
The trunk is significantly larger, offering 15.4 cubic feet of space, compared with the New Beetle’s 12.0 cubic feet; with the seats folded, the capacity increases to 29.9 cubic feet. A split-folding rear seat and a wide opening trunk lid ease loading and unloading.
Suspension
Beetle TDI models are fitted with a strut-type front suspension with a lower control arm and a 22-mm-diameter anti-roll bar. At the back, there’s a torsion beam arrangement that has coil springs and telescopic dampers. Like the Beetle Turbo, the TDI uses rack-and-pinion steering with electric power assistance.
All Beetle models have standard anti-lock brakes (ABS) with electronic brake pressure distribution (EBD). The Beetle TDI has 11.3-inch-diameter vented front discs and 10.7-inch-diameter rear disc brakes.
Safety and Security
The starting point in the Beetle’s safety armory is a very rigid body structure that uses ultra-high-strength, hot-formed steels in the crash-load paths and seamless laser welds. Electronic Stability Control (ESC) is standard, as are driver and front passenger airbags and Side Curtain Protection® airbags in front and rear. The Beetle includes Volkswagen’s advanced Intelligent Crash Response System that shuts off the fuel pump, unlocks the doors, and switches on the hazard lights if the car is involved in certain types of collision.
The Beetle TDI is also covered under the no-charge Carefree Maintenance Program®. All scheduled maintenance is covered for the length of the New Vehicle Limited Warranty-three years or 36,000 miles, whichever occurs first. Additionally, all current Volkswagen vehicles use synthetic oil, which, when combined with state-of-the-art German engineering, eliminates the need for a 5000-mile oil change, and allows owners to go farther between scheduled oil changes.
Model Lineup
There are three Beetle TDI Clean Diesel trim lines: TDI; TDI with Sunroof; and TDI with Sunroof, Sound, and Navigation. All three are very well equipped, with standard features such as power windows with one-touch up/down; cruise control; V-Tex Leatherette seating; the kaeferfach secondary glovebox; Bluetooth®; a leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel with audio controls; three auxiliary gauges; Keyless entry with push-button start; and a Media Device Interface with iPod® cable.
TDI
The base TDI comes with standard 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, all the equipment listed above, and an interior and exterior chrome package. The standard RCD310 audio system has an AM/FM radio, CD player, Bluetooth®, and eight speakers.
TDI with Sunroof
This version takes the TDI’s standard equipment and adds a panoramic tilt/slide sunroof that is fully 80 percent larger than the one fitted to the New Beetle. The insulating glass blocks 99 percent of UV radiation and 92 percent of heat energy. The model’s Premium VIII audio system has a full-color touchscreen display, a six-disc CD changer, and an SD card reader.
TDI with Sunroof, Sound and Navigation
The topline TDI features the RNS 315 navigation system that has a five-inch touchscreen display. The Fender® Premium audio system that offers concert quality sound is also standard. This has an additional subwoofer, proprietary Panasonic® speaker technology that covers the cabin with directional sound, and 400 watts of output power.

Sporty elegance – the new ABT AS5
The A5 is a fast coupe and a comfortable travel companion to begin with. But in its ABT Sportsline version this extravagant car is even more sporty. The latest edition of the ABT AS5 combines a precise and harmonious design with dynamic technology. “For us, it was important to combine this car’s extraordinary design with our ideas and thus to underscore the car’s character. Its increased performance and its body parts form a unit”, says Hans-Jürgen Abt. The traditional Bavarian company’s managing director is very excited about this automobile. “If you look at the AS5, you want to take in every inch of its marvellous silhouette, and if you sit in it, all you want is to get it on the road. This coupé is really a power pack.”
This sports car in its “tailor-made suit” is so much fun to drive because it has undergone a real ABT Sportsline treatment. The car is always assertive and second to none: ABT POWER turns the 3.0l diesel engine from its original 245 hp (180 kW) to a torquey 300 hp (221 kW). For the 2.0 TFSI, it is a dynamic 270 hp or 199 kW (original version: 211 hp/155 kW). Other engine variants are being developed and will be presented at a later stage.
To be sure, this additional ABT POWER also has to be put on the road. So a lowered suspension has been geared to the AS5, which make for a very effective lowering of the car’s centre of gravity – in visual terms, too. This is part of the overall design concept. Front spoiler, side skirts, fender inserts, rear skirt insert, rear spoiler and the typical four-pipe exhaust system make the chic ABT appear unobtrusively assertive from wherever you look at it. As an ideal complementary feature, ABT recommends the CR Silverlight or DR alloy wheels. Depending upon your taste, they will underscore either the new ABT AS5’s sportiness or its elegance. And in visual terms they are fully in line with the sport braking system, which is available with discs of 345 or 380mm in diameter.
The new ABT AS5 has been developed by the globally largest tuner of cars produced by the Volkswagen Group, with its designers and engineers making no compromises. After all, what driver of this unique coupe would want to make compromises? “They want a maximum of automotive sophistication, dynamism, roadworthiness, design and assertiveness”, Hans-Jürgen Abt says. So the new AS5 is a benchmark five times over!
The new ABT AS5 – data and facts

ABT ENGINE TECHNOLOGY
Engine: 2.0 TFSI, 1.984 ccm capacity
Performance tuning: ABT POWER
Performance: 270 HP/199 kW (standard: 211 HP/155 kW)

Engine: 3.0 TDI, 2.967 ccm capacity
Performance tuning: ABT POWER
Performance: 300 HP/221 kW (standard: 245 HP/180 kW)

ABT AERODYNAMICS
ABT front spoiler
ABT side skirts
ABT fender inserts
ABT rear skirt insert
ABT rear spoiler

ABT EXHAUST TECHNOLOGY
ABT rear muffler

ABT SUSPENSION
ABT suspension springs or coilovers

ABT WHEEL TECHNOLOGY
ABT designer light alloy wheels in 19 and 20 inch
Available also as complete set of wheels with sports tyres

ONE OF THE 5,703 BMWs Z8 by Senner Tuning AG

The Z8 model manufactured by BMW between March 2000 and July 2003 is included in the number above. It also includes 555 Alpina version cars (450 of them were equipped with an automatic gearbox and were shipped to the USA). They feature a wider radiator grill and side air intakes which were created by Henrik Fisker – based on the 1955 BMW 507 – and have almost become a rarity, certainly better known to experts as the E52 internal type. Even the standard roadster featuring a 5.0 liter V8 engine from M5 (E39S) provides impressive 294 kW (= 400 hp) and max. torque of 500 Nm.
To overhaul this sports car (this time the car is available for order only in full optional) as delicately as possible and make its overall appearance elegantly understated, Benno Senner of SENNER Tuning AG, Ingelheim, with his crew implemented the best existing concepts. At the very start the engine was supplied with a sports air filter set. Then parameter adjustment followed, including the exhaust system balancing featuring a welded exhaust manifold with a stainless steel silencer and flame tubes designed with metal catalysts. This adds the total of 37 kW (50 hp) and 535 Nm torque. This dramatic increase enables to raise the maximal possible speed to over 300 km/h.
When picking the perfect wheel-tire combination, SENNER Tuning AG chose Work Schwert SC1 wheels in Diamond Black varnish with an anodized 9×19 and 10×19 inch chrome outer rims, and Continental Sport Contact 5P 255/40R19 and 285/35R19 tires. To compensate for the fact that RunFlat tires were mounted on non-emergency run-flat wheels, the tool kit was complemented with a tire-repair set and a compressor. A glance through the wheel provides a view of Racing Gold varnished brake calipers. And a few words on the chassis technology: In addition to the coilover suspension Variant 2 Inox-Line with an adjustable rebound, a strut bar was installed on the reinforced shock mount in the front in order to stabilize the front end.
This Ingelheim-performed conversion of the Z8 into an elegant black-colored piece of art costs € 18,900.00, but taking into account the total number of vehicles manufactured it should be seen rather as an additional increase in value.

Mopar® Marks 75th Anniversary: Unveils Four Custom Vehicles
Mopar Mods Headed for 2012 Chicago Auto Show
Mopar® ‘12 300, a custom Chrysler 300 that goes from 0 to 60 mph in the low 5-second range, is third factory-built Mopar-badged vehicle from Chrysler Group LLC
All-new 2013 Dodge Dart ‘GTS 210 Tribute’ and 2012 Fiat 500 ‘Stinger’ get two Mopar stage kits, highlighting appearance and performance
2012 Mopar Jeep Compass ‘True North’ gets a 2-inch lift, aggressive look and extreme personalization
Mopar hints at future with new dealership experience, retail program, tuning station, owner centers and technology to enhance connecting with customers
January 31, 2012 , Center Line, Mich. - For its 75th anniversary, Mopar® continues to work its magic.
Today at its engineering lab in Center Line, Mich., Mopar revealed four custom vehicles, including the Mopar ‘12 300, Fiat 500 “Stinger,” Mopar Jeep® Compass “True North” and Dodge Dart “GTS 210 Tribute.” Mopar ‘12 will be available this summer straight from the factory, while components of the Fiat 500, Jeep Compass and Dodge Dart custom configurations will be available in the fall as stage kits or á la carte from the Mopar catalog.
“Customization is king,” said Pietro Gorlier, President and CEO of Mopar, Chrysler Group LLC’s service, parts and customer-care brand. “These head-turning ‘Moparized’ vehicles show how we can go to the next level of personalization. With our best-in-class offerings of parts and accessories, we give our customers every opportunity to further enhance the appearance and performance of their vehicles.”
Earlier this month, at the 2012 North American International Auto Show, the brand kicked off its year-long 75th anniversary celebration with the introduction of the Chrysler 200 Super S by Mopar and the Dodge Charger Redline. Mopar, a simple contraction of the words MOtor and PARts, was trademarked in 1937.
The following “Moparized” vehicles were revealed today and will be on display at the 2012 Chicago Auto Show from Feb. 10-19.
Mopar ‘12 300
Building on the success of Mopar versions of the 2010 Dodge Challenger and 2011 Dodge Charger, the new Mopar ‘12 300 transforms the Chrysler 300 flagship sedan into a performance tribute to celebrate Mopar’s 75th anniversary with unique appointments, select high-performance parts and appearance items straight from the Mopar parts catalog.
Power and performance
Mopar earned its factory-designed performance reputation with enthusiasts and the most discerning racing drivers for the past 75 years – and the new Mopar ‘12 is designed to showcase the brand’s prowess.
When looking under the hood of the Mopar ‘12 300, an exclusive Mopar engine cover hints at the 363 horsepower 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine with innovative four-cylinder mode Fuel Saver Technology beneath. Backed with a proven five-speed W5A580 automatic transmission, Mopar aficionados will appreciate the unique Mopar shifter combined with Auto Stick. With Auto Stick, drivers may select a higher or lower gear while the transmission controller helps prevent the possibility of an over-rev condition.
At the rear, the differential has been boosted from 3.06:1 to a 3.91:1 final-drive ratio for enhanced acceleration – unique to the Mopar ‘12 – enabling 0-to-60 mph blasts in the low 5-second range.
Track-tuned suspension delivers precision handling
The new Mopar ‘12 300 features the second-generation E-segment architecture’s performance-tuned suspension with 42 percent stiffer front and 23 percent stiffer rear spring rates compared to the Chrysler 300 models with touring-tuned suspension. For improved grip and braking, stickier P245/45R20 Goodyear Eagle F1 three-season tires replace all-season radials, and high-performance brake linings mounted to dual-piston front and single-piston rear calipers deliver fade-resistant stopping performance.
Unique Mopar 300 ‘Street Machine’
Similar to the new Chrysler 300S models, Mopar ‘12 300 adds even more street credibility with its blacked-out appearance and unique Mopar appointments. A Mopar Black Chrome seven-bar grille and grille-surround matches the black-accented headlamp bezels and fascia accents for a low-key presence.
Highlighting the Gloss Black exterior contours of the Mopar ‘12 300 are a Mopar Blue A-line body-side stripes. Large 20-inch by 8-inch Mopar forged-aluminum wheels are painted in Gloss Black and include Mopar center caps. Commemorating the brand’s 75th year, “Mopar 75″ fender badges feature the Mopar Blue “omega” logo. On the deck lid, a “Mopar Design” badge hints at the select Mopar parts and accessories that have been infused to enhance performance and distinguish the Mopar ‘12 300 from any other Chrysler 300.
Inside, Mopar ‘12 300 features a monotone black interior environment with Mopar Blue accents throughout. Mopar’s Katzkin perforated leather wraps the large-bolstered 12-way power driver and passenger heated-front sport seats, and includes Mopar Blue accent stitching on the seating surface, along with French-seamed stitching at the perimeter and a black/blue two-tone leather combination. Rear heated seats feature the same perforated leather and corresponding Mopar Blue stitching treatment.
A thick-rimmed steering wheel with die-cast paddle shifters (for Auto Stick) and a unique Mopar shifter handle are wrapped in black leather and stitched with matching Mopar Blue thread. Mopar sill plates and a serialized “Mopar ‘12 Limited Edition” badge complete the list of unique appointments.
The enthusiast-designed interior of the Mopar ‘12 300 is enhanced further with matte carbon hydrographic accents on the instrument panel and center console areas, while Piano Black is used on the interior center stack, instrument panel, steering wheel, gauge cluster and door panel elements to provide a unique lacquered appearance.
World-class connectivity with segment’s largest touchscreen display
State-of-the-art Uconnect® Touch 8.4 provides Mopar ‘12 300 passengers with the segment’s largest touchscreen display (8.4-inches) and next-generation mobile infotainment, connectivity and multimedia features. In addition, the Mopar ‘12 300 features a unique “Mopar” start-up screen.
Uconnect Touch also controls Mopar ’12’s 506-watt Alpine nine-speaker premium audio system with subwoofer 12-channel amplifier with 506 watts of power and digital signal processing (DSP) for 7.1-adapted surround sound.
SafetyTec Group: Advanced Active-safety features for 360-degree perspective
The new Mopar ‘12 300 provides customers the latest in accident-avoidance features with its standard SafetyTec Group, combining advanced active- and passive-safety technologies for enhanced driver confidence.
The SafetyTec Group includes adaptive-forward lighting (AFL), high-intensity discharge (HID) projector high and low-beams with automatic headlamp leveling, Forward Collision Warning (FCW) with adaptive-cruise control (ACC), Blind-spot monitoring (BSM) with Rear Cross Path (RCP) detection, ParkSense® front and rear park assist system, LED-illuminated rear fog lamps, exterior mirrors with supplemental turn signals and approach lamp. Additional safety features include a HomeLink universal transceiver, rain-sensing wipers and SmartBeam® headlamps.
Available this summer
The Mopar ‘12 300 will be built in Brampton, Ontario. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price for the limited-edition Mopar ‘12 300 is $49,700, which includes $825 for destination.
Customers who purchase one of these 500 limited-edition Chrysler 300 models will receive a personalized owner kit in a customized Mopar ‘12 300 box, Mopar-branded key fobs and Mopar ‘12 300 merchandise. The kit will include a certificate with the vehicle identification number (VIN), exact date of manufacture and the number of the vehicle. The kit also will include an original sketch of the car signed by the designer and a brochure highlighting the unique features of the vehicle.

Production Versions of ILX and RDX Make World Debuts at the 2012 Chicago Auto Show
The production versions of the all-new Acura ILX and the completely redesigned Acura RDX will make their world debuts at the 2012 Chicago Auto Show, February 8, 2012, Acura announced today.
The 2013 Acura ILX luxury compact sedan is an all-new model positioned as the gateway to the Acura brand. Sleek and sporty, the ILX will feature three distinct powertrains, including Acura’s first ever hybrid. The ILX will feature a high-quality, well-appointed interior that is smart and spacious. It will offer a number of new, high-value features including a standard Keyless Access System with smart entry and pushbutton start, along with Pandora® internet radio interface and SMS text message function for smart connectivity with the world.
The new 2013 RDX, Acura’s compact crossover Sport Utility Vehicle, will offer a perfect balance of luxury and utility. The RDX will now be powered by a V-6 engine, producing 33 more horsepower than the outgoing model- yet it is expected to offer the best fuel economy of any gasoline-powered luxury SUV in its class. Interior features, such as larger door openings, more passenger room, increased cargo volume and a power rear tailgate make the RDX interior even more accommodating and flexible.

The driving fun sewn into the fabric of every MINI can now be enjoyed with the roof up or down in the first convertible model from the brand designed strictly for two people. The MINI Roadster, the sixth model in the British premium carmaker’s current line-up, gives the small car segment another innovative shot in the arm. The typically MINI interpretation of a compact roadster embodies unadulterated sportiness and spontaneous urban driving fun under the open sky. Powerful engines and sophisticated chassis technology with model-specific tuning see to it that the characteristic MINI go-kart feeling is always on tap. And the MINI Roadster’s classical soft-top roof, which can be easily opened and closed manually, ensures open-top driving pleasure can be lapped up at every opportunity.
Design: classical roadster lines, hallmark MINI design language.
The hallmark MINI design language within the proportions of a roadster gives the first open-top two-seater in the history of MINI an unmistakable and irresistible charisma. Even with the roof closed, the MINI Roadster displays an elegant, sweeping silhouette, with the transition from soft-top to rear end highlighting its characteristic three-box design particularly clearly. This layout encompasses a clear visual separation of the car’s boot (capacity: 8.5 ft3) from the passenger compartment, while a wide through-loading system behind the seats enhances practicality.
The MINI Roadster’s classical soft-top roof, which can be opened and closed quickly and easily, ensures open-air driving pleasure is there to be lapped up at every opportunity. When it comes to optimizing occupant protection, the MINI Roadster is fitted with a pair of roll-over bars behind the seats. And whether the roof is open or closed, the driver and passenger have 8.5 ft3 (240-liter) boot compartment at their disposal. The wide through-loading facility into the passenger compartment provides an additional dose of practicality.
Engines: impressive power, exemplary efficiency.
The MINI Roadster will be available with a choice of three powerful yet also efficient engines. The model lineup ranges from the MINI Cooper Roadster (121 hp) and MINI Cooper S Roadster (181 hp), to the sharpest performer of all, the 208 hp MINI John Cooper Works Roadster.
Chassis: agility and precision ensure unbeatable driving fun.
Chassis technology unparalleled in the small car segment, including Electric Power Steering and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), combines with the more torsionally rigid body (complete with special strengthening elements) and the car’s lower center of gravity to deliver addictive agility and unbeatable active and passive safety. Meanwhile, front and head-thorax airbags, an extremely rigid windscreen frame and polished stainless steel roll-over bars fixed to the body join forces in the name of occupant protection. The aerodynamic balance of the MINI Roadster is optimized by an active rear spoiler which extends automatically when the car reaches 50 mph (80km/h).
High-quality standard equipment, broad scope for individualization.
The MINI Roadster underlines its premium character with a high-quality range of standard equipment, including air conditioning, speed-sensitive steering assistance, electrically adjustable exterior mirrors, height-adjustable seats, the Openometer and an audio system with MP3-compatible CD player and AUX IN connection. Levels of comfort and individuality can be further enhanced by specifying options such as Xenon Adaptive Headlights, black headlight housings, Park Distance Control, Comfort Access and the innovative MINI Connected infotainment system.
Made in England: MINI Roadster built at MINI Plant Oxford.
The character of the MINI Roadster also owes much to its British roots; it will be produced alongside the MINI Hardtop, MINI Clubman, MINI Convertible and MINI Coupe in Great Britain. The arrival of the new model sees the assembly plant on the outskirts of Oxford, the press shop in Swindon and the Hams Hall engine factory gain even further in importance. MINI already ranks as the country’s third-largest carmaker, and the BMW Group is investing around £500 million in the ongoing expansion and modernization of its manufacturing facilities in Britain up to 2014.

At A Glance.
MINI pushes ahead with the rigorous expansion of its model family. The latest addition to the range is the MINI Roadster, the sixth model in the brand’s current lineup and the first open-top two-seater in its history. MINI Roadster is a cutting-edge, typically MINI interpretation of the compact, two-seater sports car concept with manually-opening soft-top roof; unique package appealing to demanding target groups with a penchant for elegant sportiness, spontaneous open-top driving fun and irresistible design; inspiring handling fuelled by powerful engines and sophisticated chassis technology; unrivalled scope for individualization.
Faithful incorporation of the MINI design language within the proportions of a roadster; clear focus on two-seat design and open-air driving experience; sporting charisma, with short overhangs, powerful over-the-wheel stance and high waistline; unmistakable design features and hallmark details underline the car’s brand identity.
A three-box body structure with a strikingly stepped rear end; an elegantly sweeping roadster look thanks to heavily raked A-pillars and a waistline rising up slightly along the length of the body towards the flat rear end; stands more than ¾ of an inch lower than the MINI Convertible; manually operated soft-top roof with straightforward mechanism for spontaneous, rapid opening and closing.
Full-blooded go-kart feeling and outstanding safety levels thanks to bespoke chassis set-up, low center of gravity, an increased rigidity of the body and optimized aerodynamic properties; Electric Power Steering and DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) as standard, DTC (Dynamic Traction Control) with EDLC (Electronic Differential Lock Control) optional (standard in the MINI John Cooper Works Roadster); roll-over bars in polished stainless steel; active rear spoiler extends automatically at 50 mph; MINI John Cooper Works Roadster with standard John Cooper Works aerodynamic kit.
Focused two-seater concept with stowage area behind the driver and passenger seats, through-loading system and 8.5 ft3 luggage area; wide-opening tailgate for comfortable loading; optional: wind protection insert between the roll-over bars.
Latest-generation four-cylinder engines; MINI TwinPower Turbo technology; MINI John Cooper Works Roadster with 208 hp, MINI Cooper S Roadster 181hp, MINI Cooper Roadster with 121 hp.
Bespoke color and materials concept for upholstery, exterior mirrors, trim elements and Color Lines; exclusive MINI Yours options and sport stripes in contrasting colors provide further individualization.
Options for the infotainment system include a Harman Kardon hi-fi loudspeaker system, MINI navigation system, and MINI Connected, which has features that include the Driving Excitement app, web radio, Google services, RSS news feeds, Mission Control, and in-car use of Facebook and Twitter.
Engine variants:
MINI John Cooper Works Roadster: 1.6-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine with twin-scroll turbocharger and direct injection, plus numerous technological details carried over directly from motorsports.
Displacement: 1,598 cc
Output: 208 hp at 6,000 rpm
Max. torque: 192 lb-ft at 1,850 – 5,600 rpm (207 lb-ft with Overboost at 1,700 – 4,500 rpm)
Acceleration: 0-60 mph: 6.3 seconds
Top speed: 147 mph
US EPA Estimated Fuel Economy: 25 mpg city / 33 mpg highway / 28 mpg combined
Average fuel consumption according to EU standard: 7.3 liters/100 kilometers (38.7 mpg imp)
CO2 emissions: 169 g/km
MINI Cooper S Roadster: 1.6-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine with twin-scroll turbocharger, direct injection and fully variable valve management based on the BMW Group’s VALVETRONIC technology.
Displacement: 1,598 cc
Output: 181 hp at 5,500 rpm
Max. torque: 177 lb-ft at 1,600 – 5,000 rpm (192 lb-ft with Overboost at 1,700 – 4,500 rpm)
Acceleration: 0-60 mph: 6.7 seconds
Top speed: 141 mph
US EPA Estimated Fuel Economy: 27 mpg city / 35 mpg highway / 30 mpg combined
Average fuel consumption according to EU standard: 6.0 liters/100 kilometers (47.1 mpg imp)
CO2 emissions: 139 g/km
MINI Cooper Roadster: 1.6-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine with fully variable valve management based on the BMW Group’s VALVETRONIC technology.
Displacement: 1,598 cc
Output: 121 hp at 6,000 rpm
Max. torque: 114 lb-ft at 4,250 rpm
Acceleration: 0-60 mph: 8.7 seconds
Top speed: 124 mph
US EPA Estimated Fuel Economy: 27 mpg city / 35 mpg highway / 30 mpg combined
Average fuel consumption according to EU standard: 5.7 liters/100 kilometers (49.6 mpg imp)
CO2 emissions: 133 g/km
Exterior dimensions:
Length: 146.8 inches (MINI Cooper S Roadster: 147 inches, MINI John Cooper Works Roadster: 148 inches)
Width: 66.3 inches
Height: 54.5 inches (MINI Cooper S Coupe: 54.7 inches, MINI John Cooper Works Coupe: 54.8 inches)
Wheelbase: 97.1 inches
Inspiringly elegant: The design.
The MINI Roadster is not only the sole premium model of its kind in the small car segment, it also ranks as the only open-top two-seater in the brand’s history. The faithful reproduction of the hallmark MINI design language within the proportions of a roadster gives the first open-top two-seater in the history of MINI an unmistakable and irresistible charisma. Even with the roof closed the MINI Roadster displays an elegant, sweeping silhouette, with the transition from soft-top to rear end highlighting its characteristic three-box design particularly clearly. Unlike the MINI, MINI Clubman and MINI Convertible, the MINI Roadster is divided into three distinct segments: engine compartment, passenger compartment and boot.
With an exterior length of 146.8 inches (MINI Cooper S Roadster: 147 inches, MINI John Cooper Works Roadster: 148 inches), wheelbase of 97.1 inches and width of 66.3 inches, the dimensions of the MINI Roadster largely mirror those of the MINI Convertible. Standing just 54.5 inches (MINI Cooper S Coupe: 54.7 inches, MINI John Cooper Works Coupe: 54.8 inches), i.e. more than ¾ of an inch lower than its four-seater soft-top stablemate, the new two-seater cuts a distinctive, low-slung and elegantly stretched figure from the side. A windscreen frame that is more heavily raked and tapers upwards more sharply than that of the MINI Convertible also gives it a clearly distinguishable appearance when viewed head-on.
Roadster’s individual and unmistakable style follows in the MINI tradition.
The principles of the MINI design language are faithfully reflected in the body design of the new concept. For example, the athletically taut surfaces, harmonious curves and parallel lines typical of MINI cars are complemented by a sloping windscreen frame raked by an extra 13 degrees over the MINI Convertible, a short passenger compartment distilled around two seats, and a flat boot lid.
The Roadster’s waistline rises up slightly along the length of the body to its tail end, producing an elegant silhouette which gives the MINI Roadster an unmistakable allure – with the roof open or closed. This visual appeal is further emphasised by a wraparound chrome trim strip at the base of the windows and roof. A windscreen frame that is more heavily raked and tapers upwards more sharply than that of the MINI Convertible also gives it a clearly distinguishable and undeniably sporting impression when viewed head-on.
In customary MINI fashion, the powerful over-the-wheel stance of the new Roadster also plays a defining role in its appearance. The car’s brand identity is further
emphasised by distinctive design features such as the hexagonal contours of the radiator grille, the black border around the lower part of the body, an array of chrome strips and edging, large circular headlights with integrated direction indicators, vertically stacked rear lights positioned on the outer extremes of the rear end, and the eye-catching side indicator surrounds on the front side panels.
Clean, classic and black: the manually operated soft-top roof.
Another example of the faithful transposition of MINI design into the compact roadster template comes in the form of the robust, all-season durability of the soft-top roof. When closed, the roof – which shares the simple style of classic British roadsters – “cascades” downwards, broadening as it heads towards the body and underlining to the typically MINI, powerful over-the-wheel stance. When opened, the roof folds down flat behind the seats, keeping the car’s elegantly sweeping lines intact. And since the outer skin of the roof faces upwards, there is no need for any additional cover.
In keeping with British roadster tradition, the roof is black. A range of two non-metallic and six metallic paint shades are available for the exterior of the MINI Roadster. Sport Stripes – available in Black, Silver and (exclusively for the MINI John Cooper Works Roadster) Red for the bonnet and boot lid – allow owners to add an extra personal touch. The optional Chrome Line Exterior trim adds chrome surrounds for the lower air intake and rear foglamp.

The light-alloy wheels fitted as standard on the MINI Roadster come in 15, 16 or 17-inch formats, depending on the model variant. A selection of other light-alloy wheels are available as an option in the same sizes.

Interior design: bespoke range of options offers the key to individuality.
The interior of the MINI Roadster features – in typical brand style – a large Center Speedo and a tachometer positioned directly behind the steering wheel. The sports seats fitted as standard in the MINI Cooper S Roadster and MINI John Cooper Works Roadster offer outstanding lateral support through quickly-taken corners. The colors of the interior, meanwhile, also help enhance concentration on the road ahead. Regardless of the combination of upholstery variant, trim elements and Color Lines chosen by the MINI Roadster owner, the interior color remains Carbon Black.

The customary MINI variety of seat and upholstery variants includes ultra-exclusive piped sports seats in the color shade Toffy. Added to which, black sports seats in Punch Leather with beige-colored perforations are also available.

Trim strips can be ordered in any of six variants, while an extra Chili Red option is also offered for the MINI John Cooper Works Roadster. A choice of five Color Lines is available; the Polar Beige variant, for example, can also be combined with beige-colored exterior mirrors. The Chrome Line Interior package can be specified as an option, and includes chrome rings and trim elements for the Center Speedo, rev counter, air vents, gearshift lever gaiter, the cupholders on the center console, the door openers, the stereo speakers in the doors, the seat belt outlet and the handbrake lever.
The MINI Yours range, meanwhile, offers an additional selection of extremely exclusive exterior and interior design options, including Soda bonnet stripes in White, MINI Yours Tattoo Funky adornments and a leather-covered instrument panel.

Unadulterated power delivering pure driving fun: The engines and gearboxes.
The launch of the MINI Roadster builds on the tradition of British-bred compact open-top sports cars. This fresh take on the concept captures the imagination with a premium character unmatched in the segment and advanced drive technology providing brisk performance and a suitably modern commitment to low fuel consumption and emissions.
The MINI Roadster is available with the three most powerful petrol engines and the highest-output diesel unit in the brand’s line-up. The state-of-the-art four-cylinder engines all boast sporty power delivery combined with exemplary efficiency, and stand out with their extremely low weight and a host of technological details not found elsewhere in the class. All variants of the MINI Roadster carry the Cooper name in their model titles. This reference to legendary ex-Formula One racing car designer John Cooper, who also used to race the classic Mini, marks out a car with particular sporting capability.
MINI Cooper Roadster: a lively start to proceedings.

The MINI Cooper Roadster represents an extremely lively entry point into the Roadster line-up. Its 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine boasts a fully variable valve control system – based on the VALVETRONIC technology used in BMW engines – which sharpens the engine’s responses yet also lowers fuel consumption and emissions. With output rising to 121 and maximum torque of 114 lb-ft at 4,250 rpm, the powerplant accelerates the MINI Cooper Roadster from 0 to 60 mph in 8.7 seconds and on to a top speed of 124 mph. Its preliminary EPA estimated fuel consumption is 35 mpg highway, 27 mpg city and 30 mpg combined.

MINI Cooper S Roadster: imposing power, impressive efficiency.
In addition to fully variable valve control, MINI TwinPower Turbo technology also features a twin-scroll turbocharger and direct injection – a technology package that makes the 1.6-liter engine in the MINI Cooper S Roadster the world’s most efficient in its displacement class.

The powerplant develops its maximum output of 135 kW/184 hp at 5,500 rpm. Peak torque is 177 lb-ft at 1,600 – 5,000 rpm and 192 lb-ft in a short burst courtesy of the Overboost function. All of which means the MINI Cooper S Roadster powers from 0 to 60 mph in 6.7 seconds on the way to a top speed of 141 mph. Its preliminary EPA estimated fuel consumption is 35 mpg highway, 27 mpg city and 30 mpg combined… the same as the Cooper engine, offering more power without sacrificing fuel efficiency.

MINI John Cooper Works Roadster: a top-class sportsman with racing in its blood.
The latest model variant from MINI’s John Cooper Works sub-brand showcases its sporting potential with even greater intent. The MINI John Cooper Works Roadster is powered by a 181 hp four-cylinder engine with MINI TwinPower Turbo technology. The 1.6-liter unit generates its maximum output at 6,000 rpm, with peak torque of 260 Newton meters (192 lb-ft) on stream at 1,850 rpm. The Overboost function briefly pushes this figure up to 280 Newton meters (207 lb-ft).

6.3 seconds is all it takes the MINI John Cooper Works Roadster to blast from 0 to 60 mph. Top speed is 147 mph. Added to which, with average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle of 7.3 liters per 100 kilometers (38.7 mpg imp) and CO2 emissions of 169 grams per kilometer, the MINI John Cooper Works Roadster boasts extraordinary efficiency for an open-top car in this output class, with preliminary EPA fuel consumption estimates of 33 mpg highway, 25 mpg city and 28 mpg combined.

MINI Cooper Roadster and MINI Cooper S Roadster can also be specified with an optional six-speed automatic gearbox with Steptronic function as an alternative to the six-speed manual item fitted as standard across the MINI Roadster range.

A perfect combination of agility and stability: The chassis and body.
Like the engine line-up, the chassis technology of the MINI Roadster and the properties of its body have been developed squarely to deliver maximum driving fun within an open-top two-seater format. A quality of chassis technology unparalleled in the small car segment, including Electric Power Steering and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), combines with the torsionally rigid body (complete with special strengthening elements) and the car’s lower center of gravity to deliver addictive agility and unbeatable active and passive safety.

Meanwhile, front and head-thorax airbags, an extremely rigid windscreen frame and polished stainless steel roll-over bars fixed to the body join forces in the interests of occupant protection. The aerodynamic balance of the MINI Roadster is optimized by an active rear spoiler.

Agile, precise, stable: go-kart feeling in a roadster wrapping.
Teaming up with the powerful engines and customary MINI front-wheel drive, chassis technology of a quality unparalleled in the small car segment imbues the MINI Roadster with the brand’s hallmark driving fun. MacPherson struts at the front axle, a multi-link rear axle, Electric Power Steering with speed sensitive assistance, powerful brakes offering excellent feel, and bespoke tuning for all chassis components come together to produce a new interpretation of the time-honored MINI go-kart feeling. Sports suspension, which brings stiffer damper characteristics, sturdier anti-roll bars and upgraded springs, is available as an option.

A Sport Button on the center console, standard on all US spec MINI John Cooper Works Roadster variants, allows the driver to adjust the car’s steering characteristics and accelerator responses. If the optional six-speed automatic gearbox is specified, pressing this button also shortens shift times. The standard DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) system selectively brakes individual wheels and reduces engine power to prevent a front or rear-end slide. The system includes ABS anti-lock braking, EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), CBC (Cornering Brake Control), Brake Assist and Hill Start Assistant. DSC also adds DTC (Dynamic Traction Control) with EDLC (Electronic Differential Lock Control) for the driven axle as standard on the MINI John Cooper Works Roadster and as an option on all other model variants.

Manually operated soft-top roof the key to spontaneous open-air motoring.
An elegantly cut soft-top roof provides the necessary shelter for the Roadster’s two passengers, and is opened and closed manually. The sophisticated structure boasts outstanding soundproofing and heat insulation, which helps to give the MINI Roadster unrestricted all-season usability.

The manual opening and closing mechanism of the soft-top roof allows the driver to usher in his next dose of open-top driving pleasure without a second’s thought. And the roof can be closed again equally quickly to protect the driver and passenger from less welcome weather.

The roof is opened by turning the release lever on the windscreen frame though 130 degrees and swivelling the soft-top back behind the seats, where it locks into place. The process for closing the roof again is triggered by pressing a button positioned between the roll-over bars, which allow the roof to extend out of its anchorage points. It can then be pulled forward – using a recessed grip and assisted by gas-pressure springs – and fixed in place again against the windscreen frame. The side windows are automatically lowered during the closing process to reduce the effort required to move the soft-top into place.

The MINI Roadster can be ordered with an optional wind protection insert, which is secured between the roll-over bars to cut down on swirling air inside the passenger compartment. The wind protection element can be folded up and stowed away in a specially designed pocket in the load compartment.

A well-rounded concept delivering driving fun without compromises.
The absence of a rear seat bench allows the MINI Roadster to offer 8.5 ft3 of luggage space. And, with the roof folding down flat behind the seats, the full load space remains available when driving with the roof down. The high-opening tailgate and low boot sill make it that much easier to load items of luggage, while a 14″ x 8″ (approx.) through-loading door can also be opened from the driver’s or passenger’s seat, providing added versatility. The MINI Roadster also comes with larger door bins, three cupholders, and a cross-rack behind the seats.

Another stand-out feature of the MINI Roadster is the stainless steel rollover bars, the fronts of which are padded. Together with the reinforced windscreen frame, they provide optimized occupant protection in the event of the car rolling over. Dynamically formed contours ensure that the roll-over bars and windscreen frame combine to impressive effect in terms of design, too. The safety equipment on board the new MINI Roadster also includes front airbags and head-thorax airbags integrated into the outer sides of the seat backrests, three-point inertia-reel seat belts including belt force limiters and belt tensioners, and a Tire Pressure Monitor System.

Bodyshell stiffening at the rear increases the torsional rigidity of the body and combines with extra-sturdy side sills to enhance the strength of the passenger cell. In addition, the MINI Roadster also features built-in innovative pedestrian protection measures and special stiffening elements in the front section. These result in a slightly higher front axle load rating compared with the MINI Hardtop, which gives the front wheels extra traction. In addition, the use of a comparatively lightweight, manually operated soft-top roof lowers the car’s center of gravity. The impressive body rigidity of the MINI Roadster and its dynamically favorable weight distribution provide the ideal platform for agile and precise handling.

Active rear spoiler optimizes aerodynamic balance.
Optimized aerodynamic properties also play their role in a vehicle concept geared to enjoying driving fun to the fullest extent. The heavily raked A-pillars and windscreen reduce the frontal area of the body, and therefore reduce levels of drag. Added to which, the MINI Roadster is fitted with an active rear spoiler. Integrated into the tailgate, the spoiler extends automatically as soon as the MINI Roadster reaches 50 mph. When the car’s speed drops back below 37 mph, a four-part control mechanism returns the spoiler to its rest position. The active rear spoiler, which can also be operated manually using a button in the control panel on the windscreen frame, provides up to 88 lb of extra downforce when travelling at maximum speed.
Airflow has been optimized to an even greater degree on the MINI John Cooper Works Roadster. The most powerful member of the Roadster line-up is fitted with a John Cooper Works aerodynamic kit as standard in a nod to its exceptionally dynamic performance capability. This kit comprises bespoke front and rear aprons and side skirts, and is also available as an option for the other variants of the MINI Roadster as part of the John Cooper Works Pack.

Creating that unique MINI feeling: The equipment.
The MINI Roadster is the first premium car of its kind in the small car segment, a status it underlines with its advanced drive and chassis technology, well-rounded overall concept, high level of quality and extensive standard equipment. In true MINI style, each Roadster leaving MINI Plant Oxford will sport a configuration tailored to the customer’s requirements. The extraordinary variety of options and accessories available for the new model gives customers the freedom to create a car adapted precisely to their personal tastes. Attractive options – some of them unique in the small car segment – allow owners to turn their MINI Roadster into a one-off car reflecting their individual style in terms of design, comfort and driving fun.

As an open-top two-seater with a manually operated soft-top roof, the MINI Roadster embodies a zestful and pure-bred brand of driving fun. To this end, the classical compact drop-top sports car concept is laced with an array of innovative equipment features. For example, the MINI Connected range of pioneering in-car infotainment functions presents owners with some particularly intriguing avenues to explore.
MINI Roadster: premium two-seater with high-quality standard equipment and exclusive options.

The interior of the MINI Roadster features – in typical brand style – a large Center Speedo and a rev counter positioned directly behind the steering wheel. The sports seats fitted as standard in the MINI Cooper S Roadster and MINI John Cooper Works Roadster offer outstanding lateral support through quickly-taken corners. Standard specification also includes air conditioning, height-adjustable seats, an on-board computer, the Openometer, the storage package and electrically adjustable exterior mirrors.

The comfort and individuality of the MINI Roadster can be further enhanced with items from the range of high-quality options, some unique in the small car segment. For example, Adaptive Headlights and black headlight housings are available in conjunction with the optional Xenon headlights. Among the other options customers can choose from are Park Distance Control with rear sensors, Comfort Access, a multifunction steering wheel, automatic climate control, heated seats, automatically dimming rear-view mirror and exterior mirrors, an armrest. Also available as an option are Recaro sports seats in a leather/Dinamica combination with optimized lateral support, extended thigh support, integrated head restraints and an embossed John Cooper Works by Recaro logo. Customers can also dip into the selection of exclusive options available from the MINI Yours range and ultra-sporty John Cooper Works options and accessories.

Only from MINI Connected: innovative entertainment and communications functions.
The MINI Roadster comes as standard with the Radio MINI CD audio system with HD technology, while an extra dose of entertainment pleasure can be specified in the form of the Harman Kardon hi-fi loudspeaker system and USB audio interface. The radio MINI Visual Boost and MINI navigation system link up with a 6.5-inch, highresolution color display in the Center Speedo. If these options are specified, MINI Connected allows Apple iPhone owners access to internet-based services inside the car. The MINI Connected App opens the door to a web radio function, use of Google services, Facebook and Twitter, reception of RSS news feeds, full integration of Pandora Radio, MOG Internet Radio, the MINIMALISM Analyzer, Mission Control and Dynamic Music functions, as well as the latest Driving Excitement functions, such as Condition Check, Force Meter and digital sports instruments.

NISMO AND JR MOTORSPORTS RELEASE THE NISSAN GT-R (R35) CONFORMING TO FIA GT3 REGULATIONS
NISSAN MOTORSPORTS INTERNATIONAL CO. LTD. (NISMO) is pleased to announce the official release of a Nissan GT-R (R35) that conforms to FIA GT3 regulations: the Nissan GT-R NISMO GT3.
NISMO and JR Motorsports (JRM), its official partner for this major project, have been jointly developing the car during 2011 and, following a series of extensive tests – which have included three competitive outings – the car’s performance and durability has proven its credentials for GT3 racing worldwide.
The Nissan GT-R NISMO GT3 features a 3.8 V6 twin-turbo engine that is based on a standard road car unit, developing 530ps at 6400 rpm. Power is delivered via six-speed transaxle that drives the rear wheels, activated by a semi-automatic paddle-shift system.
Designed with customers in mind, driveability has been an important factor in the new car’s development programme. Therefore, as well as featuring a chassis that inspires confidence, suspension set-up and driver controls can easily be adjusted to suit a range of preferences.
The car is to be displayed in the UK at Autosport International (Europe’s biggest motorsport exhibition) on Thursday 12th January, where it will be unveiled on the JRM exhibition stand. It will then be displayed for the remaining three day’s of the show. The car will appear alongside the GT1 Nissan GT-R that won the 2011 FIA GT1 World Championship. To celebrate the launch, JRM will simultaneously run the Nissan GT-R NISMO GT3 as an official Nissan Europe entry in the Dubai 24-hour race, where it will be driven by four Nissan Champions from 2011: Michael Krumm, Alex Buncombe, Tom Kimber-Smith and Franck Malliaux.
Sales and customer support for the Nissan GT-R NISMO GT3 will be implemented by NISMO for Japan, Asia, North America, South America, and Oceania, whilst JRM will cover Europe, Russia and the Middle East.
The car is priced at 298,000 Euro (32,000,000 JPY)*. Enquiries should be made to either NISMO or JRM.