MOTOR RIVALS

The new MINI Hardtop carries forward its predecessor's aspiration to remaining the leading original of the premium small car segment, underpinning its outstanding position with significant advancements in all areas relating to driving fun, quality and individual flair. The evolutionary refinement of its design signals the more mature character of the new model, reflected in a significant optimization of such aspects as space, safety, fittings, materials and finish quality as well as sportiness and ride comfort. The enhancement of product substance embodied in the new MINI Hardtop derives directly from the BMW Group's outstanding development expertise and takes on a more extensive form than ever before in the history of the brand. A new generation of engines increases driving fun and efficiency, and there is a wider selection of innovative driver assistance systems as well as MINI Connected infotainment facilities. LED headlamps and the MINI Head-Up Display are other highlights in the equipment program only previously found in higher vehicle segments, further underscoring the premium character of the new MINI.

Two newly developed power units featuring MINI TwinPower Turbo Technology are available to choose from at the market launch of the new MINI Hardtop in March 2014. The new MINI Cooper has a 3-cylinder engine with a peak output of 134 bhp. The 4-cylinder engine of the MINI Cooper S mobilizes 189 bhp. Another new feature: the standard 6-speed manual transmission, along with a 6-speed automatic transmission that is optionally available for all engine variants. Increased engine efficiency, extensive MINIMALISM technology, optimized weight and enhanced aerodynamic properties go together to produce a reduction in fuel consumption.

Classic MINI proportions, the characteristic three-way separation of body, all-round greenhouse and roof together with a new take on hallmark design features define the exterior of the new model, which has grown by some 4.5 inches in length. Its interior offers extended spatial comfort on all four seats as well as a luggage compartment volume expanded by 3 cubic feet to a total of 8.7 cubic feet.

A new display and operating concept combines the typical brand-style look and feel of the cockpit with optimized functionality. Road speed and engine speed along with other key driving-related information is shown in the newly designed instrument cluster on the steering column. The characteristic central instrument with an optional color display of up to 8.8 inches in size provides feedback on operations performed using the MINI Controller in the center console as well as giving visual feedback on driving condition and on numerous functions activated by the driver.

The new MINI Driving Modes allow an individual set-up involving not just the characteristic curve of the accelerator and steering but also engine acoustics, and in the MINI Cooper S – provided the relevant features are present - ambient lighting, the shift times of the automatic transmission and the characteristics of Dynamic Damper Control, the latter system being optionally available for the first time. The modes SPORT and GREEN can be activated in addition to the standard MID mode. In conjunction with an automatic transmission, the efficiency-oriented GREEN mode also features a coasting function with decoupled drivetrain.

The range of optional driver assistance systems has been significantly expanded. For the first time there is an extendible Head-Up Display above the steering column available for the new MINI, a Driving Assistant system including camera-based active cruise control, collision and pedestrian warning, high beam assistant and speed limit information, and also a parking assistant and a rear view camera.

Unique within the competitive environment, the MINI in-car infotainment program moves into a whole new dimension. Functions which can be integrated in the vehicle via apps in the areas of social networks and infotainment are now available for both the Apple iPhone and for smartphones using the operating system Android.

With either the standard 1.6-liter four-cylinder or available three-time International Engine of the Year 1.0-liter EcoBoost® engine*, Ford Fiesta offers outstanding efficiency** to complement its personalization features that let drivers create a Fiesta that suits their individual style.

Ford continues to improve and refine Fiesta. “Customers want cars that are expressive and fun,” said Joe Hinrichs, Ford president, The Americas. “Fiesta delivers all the excitement drivers are looking for in a car we believe raises the bar even higher for small cars in North America.”

Fiesta offers four new colors for 2016 – Shadow Black, Electric Spice, White Platinum Metallic Tri-Coat and Kona Blue.

The SE Black Package offers unique and aggressive styling for customers looking for more personality in their Fiesta. The package includes 16-inch eight-spoke machined aluminum wheels, a black grille, black dual power/heated exterior mirrors and fog lamps with carbon black painted bezels.

Fiesta sees the addition of the new SYNC® 3 enhanced voice recognition communications and entertainment system. This includes available 6.5-inch center LCD touch screen with swiping and navigation with pinch-to-zoom capabilities, AppLink™ and 911 Assist®. New standard equipment for 2016 includes remote keyless entry and perimeter alarm on S trim levels.