The 2012 MINI Cooper Coupe is the British brand's first two-seater and fifth car overall since returning to existence in 2001. And it aims to redefine the ''super-compact sports car''.
 

If you've never heard of such a thing, you're not alone. Many automakers nowadays use a similar tactic to set their products apart and above the rest. Just think about Kia, which sells the Soul as an ''urban utility vehicle''.

Beyond the fancy definitions and marketing gibberish, this MINI visually stands out with three-box styling, a helmet-shaped roofline and particularly-steep tail.

Its overall length (3,734 mm), width (1,384 mm) and wheelbase (2,467 mm) stay true to classic MINI proportions, although the lowered profile immediately makes the aspirations of this pint-sized coupe quite clear.

Performance or efficiency? Why not both?
All trim levels feature a 6-speed manual (standard) or automatic gearbox and 4-cylinder engine with direct injection. The base Coupe (121 hp, 118 lb-ft) will meet most people's needs, while the S (181 hp, 177 lb-ft) and John Cooper Works (208 hp, 192 lb-ft) models will certainly satisfy thrill seekers and driving enthusiasts, depending on their budget.

On the road, the little notchback promises exhilarating performance. The JCW sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.4 seconds, whereas the entry-level model boasts a far less exciting, though still respectable time of 8.9 seconds.

Using MacPherson struts up front and a multilink setup in the back, with available stabilizer bars, the company brags about the MINI Coupe offering go-kart handling. An active rear spoiler integrated to the trunk lid will deploy at 80 km/h to optimize the aerodynamic balance between the two axles. At top speed, it will deliver 88 pounds of extra downforce.

In typical MINI fashion, the new Coupe will prove extremely fuel-efficient, too. Combined city-highway numbers will range from 6.1 to 6.7 L/100km, meaning buyers won't have to sacrifice performance to save at the pumps.

Classically original interior
Inside, expect to find the brand's signature retro styling and huge round speedometer in the middle of the dashboard, with an emphasis on the available navigation system as well.

Unusual shapes and sometimes odd control locations will surprise drivers. Further distinguishing the Coupe are oval carvings in the headliner which increase headroom for the two occupants.

Standard features include air conditioning, height-adjustable seats and a CD/MP3 player with auxiliary input. Higher-end models will add automatic climate control, auto-dimming mirrors, a powerful harman/kardon sound system and Bluetooth connectivity.

For even more exclusiveness, buyers can select one of many customization options, directly at the dealership, through the MINI Yours program.

Conquering uncharted terrain
While Canadian prices have yet to be announced, the 2012 MINI Cooper Coupe will likely carry a sticker of $25,000 to $40,000. With that in mind, and factoring in its sporty character, competition is bound to come from the Mazda MX-5 and Hyundai Genesis Coupe 3.8 – at least that's what some people would think.

In reality, the car will try to create its own niche and attract a whole new type of customers, making it only a minor threat to the aforementioned rivals. Again, that's the assumption...

Source: Auto 123