STUD OR DUD? 2014 Mini Caught In The Open Undisguised

These pictures show the new 2014 Mini totally undisguised for the first time. The car had previously been seen only in a series of unflattering photographs.

The new Mini features distinctive LED daytime running light rings that encircle the entire headlamp unit. As expected, the car carries far larger rear lights than before.

This Cooper S photographed also features a number of the performance variant's traditional hallmarks, including a rear roof spoiler, a dual centrally-mounted exhaust arrangement and an air intake in the bonnet. The car appears to have grown slight with a longer front overhang than the current car.

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HoustonMidtown - 10/1/2013 7:15:23 AM

0 Boost

The LEDs make it look even more bug-eyed than before...

mini22 - 10/1/2013 10:29:28 AM

+2 Boost

Looks a lot like the previous one from dead on. The grill looks a bit busy. Agree about those headlamps.I can see from the side a slightly more angle windshield and rear glass. Rear heal lamps larger than before. The car does not look any wider than before or significantly bigger. I'm guessing an inch longer and a 1/2 inch wider. I'm guessing cargo area is up ever so slightly.If it is longer I would say mostof the length comes from the front hood forward. That does not necessarilly translate into significantly more interior room.The cars should be a bit quicker, particularly the base car. The Cooper S performance should be ever so slightly better as HP goes up 7.and torque is over 200lbs now.I'm a bit scepitcal if Mini has really solved the torque steer issue.This is the second attempt to quell it with steering software. The first time was not successful so we will have to wait and see. The 2 stage ride choice sounds like a good one. Mini's have never had a decent ride. My 06 S started to develop significant rattles after 7 yrs of ownership. I hope this resolves the issue.I'm also wondering if Mini will up prices. They have kind of taken the Porsche alacarte route previously. A stripped car is very competative. However it seems pretty easy to get over 30 grand with these cars with average options. Thats not a worry with my 2013 Fiat Abarth. Compared to my old 2006 Cooper S, my Abarth has slightly less steering precision, a better ride, slightly more interior and cargo room, better acceleration, a much better sounding engine. Finally a cheaper price.

Gambit - 10/1/2013 12:08:45 PM

+2 Boost

It looks very surprised...like they snapped it coming out of the shower