The 2010 MINI Cooper and Clubman Models Get Power Upgrades!

The 2010 MINI Cooper, Cooper S and Clubman models are getting a slight boost in power for the new year. Starting with the base Cooper and Clubman models, it now puts out 3 more horsepower from the 1.6L than last year, not really a big deal I guess. The Cooper S and Clubman S models now put out 9 more horsepower from the turbocharger 1.6L. The S models equipped with the manual transmission get a new self-adjusting clutch with carbon coated linings, which supposedly improves pedal feel and service costs.
The 2010 MINI models will be arriving this March.

Detroit 10' Preview: MINI Beachcomber Concept Unveiled

We're still waiting for the upcoming MINI crossover, but in the mean time MINI is set to unveil the Beachcomber concept at the Detroit Auto Show next month. The Beachcomber concept is based on the new crossover, but features styling that is similar to a Jeep Wrangler with its missing doors and open top design.
If you can think all the back to 1964, for those of us that were alive back then, MINI did have an open air vehicle dubbed the Mini Moke. That original open air vehicle which consisted of only a floorpan, wide sills at the side, the engine compartment lid and the windscreen serves as the inspiration for the Beachcomber concept.
It is very unlikely that this concept will ever be produced, but the all-wheel-drive system and turbocharged four-cylinder featured in the concept are likely to be part of the upcoming MINI crossover.