Next-Generation MINI to Get Advanced New Engines

As with the current model, buyers will have a choice of three main powerplants, all of which carry the same 1.6 liter

The next-generation Cooper will feature a turbocharged version of the new engine, that is said to produce 148 horsepower in Cooper trim. (Photo: Justin Couture, American Auto Press)

displacement. Both the One and the Cooper models will have noteworthy increases in horsepower and torque ratings. The base model One will feature a naturally aspirated variant which produces 115 horsepower and 117 lb-ft of torque, bringing it on par performance-wise with the current Cooper, which could mean BMW will bring it to North America where it will enjoy a more aggressive price point. The next-generation Cooper will feature a turbocharged version of the same engine that is said to produce 148 horsepower, and in excess of 170 lb-ft of torque.

As for the Cooper S, while it will retain the same 170 horsepower rating as the current supercharged model, it's expected that the amount of torque the engine produces will be increased by a fair margin. Insiders say that the Cooper S Works could produce as much power as 230 horses, up from the current 210, bringing it closer to the level of performance delivered by some rival compact sports entries. The use of a turbocharger for the new powerplants will increase

The use of a turbocharger for the new powerplants will increase the after-market tuning potential for the MINI. (Photo: Justin Couture, American Auto Press)

the after-market tuning potential for the MINI, with the only limits being its front-wheel drive layout, as well as reliability.

How are these equal-sized powerplants able to improve on the current specification figures? The key to these gains lies in the advanced technology that each engine uses. All will incorporate an all-alloy engine block with dual overhead camshafts, replacing the heavy cast-iron block and less efficient single overhead cam design. On cars equipped with turbochargers, a twin-scroll turbocharger will be fitted, while naturally aspirated models will benefit from variable valve timing and direct injection.