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| Its supercharged SOHC 16-valve I-4 engine makes the Cooper S a blast to drive. (Photo: Alexandra Straub, Canadian Auto Press) |
But the biggest grin came from me, as it's a blast to drive. The way it accelerates and handles is astonishing. The Cooper S is endowed with a supercharged SOHC 16-valve I-4 engine that delivers 163-hp at 6,000 rpm and 155 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm. The superchargers whine while the engine exudes a flirtatious purr in every gear. With its standard 6-speed manual transmission the S is zippy quick, going from 0-100 km/h in 7.4 seconds maxing out at an electronically limited 218km/h.
During my test period the Cooper S experienced a myriad of road conditions. I planned a "mini" golfing road trip up to Kelowna, BC and chose to take HWY 99 from Whistler up to Lillooet, driving along the Duffy Lake Road, and so on. As I ascended snake-like road my exterior temperature gauge indicated 3ºC outside, and dropping. Then everything turned white, I couldn't believe it. It's May and there was snow on the ground! But no need for fear, the MINI handled like a dream in the slippery and snowy conditions, in and out of tight turns. Although the 205/45R17 performance run-flat tires - part of the Sport Package - are not recommended for winter use, they gripped and hugged the road well, keeping the Cooper S from slipping and sliding. In ideal conditions, like the sunny days experienced during the Vancouver portion of the test, it handles amazingly.
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| Snow in May? The Mini Cooper S handled like a dream. (Photo: Alexandra Straub, Canadian Auto Press) |
The road I took was not the smoothest, but was definitely the most fun. All the dips and bumps turned a Sunday drive into a rollercoaster ride, but without any discomfort. The MINI's stiff front MacPherson strut suspension and independent Z-axle rear suspension kept the ride quite smooth even in such unfavourable conditions. The S also includes Sport Suspension II calibration for no additional charge.
