The upcoming MINI Coupe R59 and Roadster R58 have been spotted together during a testing session in Germany. The Coupe model is based on the John Cooper Works bodystyle, measuring 146.1 inches overall, 66.1 inches wide and 53.3 inches tall. It was designed as a two seater which brings out the idea of a MINI roadster vehicle rather than a coupe. Due to its rear-end design line, the MINI Coupe Concept lacks trunk space, the only storage space is behind the seats. The cargo space measures about 8.8 cubic feet and in the production model, it will be accessible through the a big hatch.
Inside, the MINI Coupe Concept sports an exclusive range of colors and materials. A three-spoke leather sports steering wheel with multifunction buttons enables the driver to steer precisely into bends and control the audio or communication functions with maximum ease. All other control units, in turn, are arranged ergonomically on the dashboard, taking their frequency of use into account.
Horizontal lines and air vents placed far to the outside emphasize the sheer width of the instrument panel and, at the same time, the generous style of the interior, the slender center console giving the driver and passenger maximum legroom.
The MINI Roadster is a two seater vehicle sporting a tight-fitting soft roof and innovative rear-end design. It is a new model that opens up new perspectives both in the context of the brand and in the segment of compact roadsters. The new two-seater measures 146.2 in length and 66.3 in width. Height of the car is 53.4.
Back in 2009, MINI said the Roadster is powered by the 1.6-liter twin-scroll turbocharged engine already featured in the MINI Cooper S. Boasting direct gasoline injection, this power unit delivers maximum output of 175 horsepower and peak torque of 240 Nm/177 lb-ft increasing briefly with the Overboost function to an even more superior 260 Nm/192 lb-ft. MINI Coupe uses the an engine from JCW, a 1.6 liter four cylinder turbocharged engine which produces 211 horsepower and 260 Nm (192 lb-ft) of torque.
Additional diesel engines will be offered in the lineup.
Regardless of the engine, both models feature a retractable rear spoiler that can be activated with the touch of a button increasing the downforce on the rear axle.
The Coupe will be a 2012 model year and will be followed by the MINI Roadster six months later.
A new spy video shows us the MINI Roadster during test drive sessions on the Nordschleife of the Nürburgring.
[Source: BimmerToday ]
