European Mini shoppers have the option of ordering their Cooper or Clubman with a diesel engine - an option not currently offered Stateside. But what if said shoppers would like a little added pep over the standard 90- and 110-hp oil burners and a sport-tuned suspension to go along with it?
Our intrepid spy shooters have caught the Mini engineering team testing a new Mini Cooper S Diesel and Clubman S Diesel in Europe, and both cars seem to answer the call of the enthusiast. Wearing the same 'S' twin exhaust pipes as the standard gasoline-powered Mini 'S' models (center mounted on the Cooper, and one pipe on each side on the Clubman) and some revised bodywork, this pair has much the look of the standard Mini Cooper S and Clubman S. So how did our shooters know they were diesel models? The typical diesel exhaust note was clearly recognizable.
According to our sources, the non-functional hood scoop on the standard Cooper S may or may not make it to the production Diesel S. Prototypes have been spotted with and without it. A revised front bumper does appear to be in the works, letting those ahead know that the Mini on their tail is probably looking to pass. Horsepower, we're told, should be in the 140 to 150 range - a significant boost.Will either come to the U.S. market? That is the question on many an American enthusiast's mind, no doubt. Let us know if you'd buy one in the comments section below.
Thanks to: Motor Trend