By J.T. Hills

TOP

• Completely redesigned for 2007
• Two new engine options
• BMW handling

BOTTOM

• Cheap sound system
• Choppy ride
• Interior design a bit gimmicky

The Mini is an iconic British symbol of sorts, right up there with the Beatles and fish & chips. The Mini Cooper hadnt been officially imported to the United States since 1967, but after a BMW buyout and a serious redesign, the Mini came back to our shores in 2001. For 2007, the Mini Cooper underwent a significant redesign. Although hard to define at first glance, the new model is three inches longer, has all new body panels, and a completely revamped interior. After a week with the 2007 Mini Cooper, Ive compiled a brass tacks list of highly technical scientific data based upon observations, experimentation, tabulations, inspections and so forth. Here we go:

Car fashion factoid: the mini shirt was aptly named after the Mini.
The completely redesigned Mini is much more of an evolution from the previous model more than revolution. How do you redesign retro? BMW went the way of tweaking what was good and editing what was bothersome. The 2007 model comes with increased dimensions that maximize interior space for greater comfort. A Towne Car air porter the Mini is not, but a sophisticated urban commuter it most definitely is.

The 2007 Mini comes with an all-new inline 4-cylindar engine that produces 118 hp with and estimated fuel economy of 32 mpg city and 40 mpg highway. The test vehicle came equipped with a 6-speed manual Getrag transmission. For more spirited driving, there is a sport mode that increased throttle and steering response. There is an optional automatic transmission, but for those who like to get from 0-60 mph in faster than 10.0 seconds, I would highly suggest the manual. The Mini performs much like a BMW; it has a similar MacPherson strut front suspension with multi-link rear suspension, and all four tires are positioned at the cars outside corners. Out on the open road, handling is crisp and precise without being darty like many Asian competitors. The manual also shifts smoothly and doesnt have the long clutch throw that I experienced recently with a BMW 3-series. The firm suspension is a bit choppy and down right jarring on city streets.

The most obvious interior change is the new speedometer in the center of the dash that incorporates the audio and optional navigation system. Believe it or not, the speedometer has grown in size. Esthetically its reminiscent of an institutional wall clock. Everybody in the car will know exactly how fast you are going. In fact, the guy in the car behind you will be able to see your speedometer to know exactly how fast you are going. Mini updated the instrument cluster to include a tachometer and a digital speedometer so that you are able to gage your speed within your peripheral view. Which begs the question, why the big hokey wall clock in the center of the dash? The center console is also narrowed to provide some much needed legroom for front passengers. On the previous model I developed a bruise on my right leg after a week of it rubbing on the console. The test model also came with the upgraded high definition satellite stereo. This is a wasted $2000 in options. I cant remember the last time that I was so disappointed with an audio system. The stock audio system in a KIA Rio has more clarity. The $300 optional sport seats were also a bit uncomfortable for me. They were stiff and not really molded suitably for someone over 6 feet tall. Although, I do have to say that there was plenty of leg and headroom.

OK, for a before tax price of $27,120 what do you get?
The 2007 Mini Cooper comes with a base price of $18,050, and comes with a long menu of additional options to personalize it to your preferences. A quick look at the favorites includes:

Performance

• 1.6 liter, 16-valve inline 4-cylinder 118 hp engine
• Six speed manual transmission
• MacPherson strut front suspension with multi-link rear suspension
• 15 alloy wheels
• Electronic power assist steering
• All-season traction control
• Sport button with increased throttle and steering response

Safety

• Driver and front passenger front airbags, side curtain airbags
• Anti-lock brakes, corner brake control
• Flat tire monitor

Comfort and Convenience

• Climate control
• Six-way adjustable front seats
• Climate controlled glove box

Options

• Blue leather with Carbon black cloth interior ($1,000)
• Dynamic Stability control ($500)
• High Definition Radio ($500)
• Sirius Satellite Radio ($950)
• Mini Hi Fi System ($550)
• Rain Sensor and Auto headlights ($200)
• Fog lamps ($150)
• Sport Seats ($300)
• Comfort access system($500)