Mini Cooper

In its basic form as used in the Cooper, the new engine has the same capacity and produces approximately the same 120 horsepower and 118 pound-feet of torque as the previous engine. However, with BMW Valvetronic variable-valve technology using European standards (U.S. EPA tests are not yet available), the engine is now rated at 31 mpg in urban use and 51 mpg on the highway, better than many hybrids, and CO2 emissions are significantly reduced.

In the turbocharged form with direct fuel injection as used in the Cooper S, the engine gives the car very sporting performance. The 175 horsepower is more than adequate in the lightweight Mini to produce speeds twice most legal limits, but the 177 pound-feet of torque, which can be overboosted to 190 pound-feet for short intervals, and is available from 1700 rpm to 5000 rpm, is nothing short of marvelous. A sport button control gives quicker response from accelerator and steering.

The turbo engine takes the Mini from 0 to 60 mph in 7 seconds, reflecting a slight turbo hesitation at the start, but produces satisfying acceleration at all speeds once in motion. Even with that performance, the turbo is still rated at 28 mpg urban and 41 mpg extra-urban in the European mileage tests.