2011 MINI Coupe Launched In Malaysia

BMW Malaysia has launched the 2011 MINI Coupe, completing the local MINI model lineup, which until now consisted of the hatchback, cabriolet, Clubman and Countryman. The first-ever two-seater MINI model arrives as a 1.6-litre Cooper S automatic variant priced at RM 249,888 (OTR without insurance).

The MINI Coupe is the first MINI to adopt a three-box body structure, compressed into a small, low-slung package that looks distinctive enough to turn heads, though possibly not for the right reasons. The “helmet” roof is painted in a contrasting colour to the body. Yet another first for a MINI is an active rear spoiler, integrated into the boot lid, that automatically pops up at 80 km/h and retracts below 60 km/h.

The cabin is finished in Carbon Black and features a circular theme, with a centrally-located over-sized speedometer, a rev-counter positioned directly behind the steering wheel, and round air-con vents. Peculiar but perhaps necessary is an oval recess carved into the roof liner to create extra headroom for taller drivers. The boot is usefully sized at 290 litres, with practicality further aided by a through-loading system.

The familiar 1.6-litre engine—equipped with twin-scroll turbocharging, direct injection and fully variable valve management—develops 184 PS at 5500 rpm and 240 Nm from 1600 rpm to 5000 rpm (overboost takes it to 260 Nm between 1730–4500 rpm). Those figures mean that the Cooper S Coupe completes the century sprint in 7.1 seconds and hits 224 km/h. Despite that, the official fuel economy is still excellent at 14.9 km/litre and carbon emissions at 155 grams/km.

The optional RM 14,988 MINI Connected package offers a 10-speaker, 480-watt Harman Kardon audio system, and the full integration of an iPhone into the car's entertainment system. Through the use of the MINI Connected App, RSS, Facebook and Twitter feeds can be displayed on a 6.5" colour LCD screen or read out using the voice output function. Enjoy the 2011 MINI Coupe official gallery below!