Next-Generation MINI to Get Advanced New Engines

In its most basic form the MINI One, not available in North America, sports a 1.6 liter SOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder producing 90

BMW's best efforts could not cover the Tritec engine's less than prestigious roots. (Photo: Alexandra Straub, American Auto Press)

horsepower and 89 lb-ft of torque. Move up to the Cooper and Cooper Classic, and that same motor features 115 horsepower. At the top end of the spectrum is the 170 horsepower Cooper S and 210 horsepower Cooper S Works, which both utilize belt-driven superchargers to squeeze out every last remaining pony from the tiny 1.6 liter powerplant.

Prior to the production of the car, BMW revitalized the Brazilian-built motor by refining and revamping many internal components. Although the engine produced more power, more

With the help of French carmakers PSA-Peugeot-Citroen, BMW is planning a whole new MINI engine range for 2007. (Photo: Alexandra Straub, American Auto Press)

torque and used less fuel than in Chrysler applications, BMW's best efforts could not cover the engine's less prestigious roots. Power delivery is marginal at best, and the motor delivers a coarse, gruff, engine note.

Set to begin production in 2006 and making its way into the second generation 2007 MINI is an entirely new engine range, co-developed with French carmakers PSA-Peugeot-Citroen. The venture, first announced in 2002, is nearly complete, with plans for an entire series of small but advanced engines ranging from 75 horsepower to 230, for use in compact Peugeot, Citroen and MINI vehicles.