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Mini updates Cooper, Clubman for 2011

It only took 10 years of goading, but 2011 Mini models will finally have their volume knobs moved to a logical location.

Antuan Goodwin Reviews Editor / Cars
Antuan Goodwin gained his automotive knowledge the old fashioned way, by turning wrenches in a driveway and picking up speeding tickets. From drivetrain tech and electrification to car audio installs and cabin tech, if it's on wheels, Antuan is knowledgeable.
Expertise Reviewing cars and car technology since 2008 focusing on electrification, driver assistance and infotainment Credentials
  • North American Car, Truck and SUV of the Year (NACTOY) Awards Juror
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Antuan Goodwin
2 min read
Mini

The changes to the 2011 Mini models are subtle, but sometimes less is more.
The changes to the 2011 Mini models are subtle, but sometimes less is more. Mini

For the 2011 model year, Mini is introducing the new Countryman crossover to its diminutive lineup (both in quantity and in stature). Not wanting to be leave any out of the party, Mini will give updates its remaining three models--Cooper, Clubman, and Cooper convertible--exteriors, engine bays, and cabin controls and technology packages.

It only took 10 years of goading, but 2011 Mini models will finally have their volume knobs moved to a logical location.
It only took 10 years of goading, but Mini models finally get their volume knobs moved to a logical location. Mini

Starting in the cabin, the Mini's center stack will retain its familiarly weird configuration. But if you look closely,  you'll notice that 2011 models' volume knob is located on the face of the stereo system. (Whoa!) One of the things that has always annoyed us about previous Mini vehicles is the oddball placement of the volume knob--which was halfway down the center stack, far away from the rest of the audio controls. Hopefully, this new configuration will put an end to our frustrations.

Mini owners who opt for the navigation system will be treated to Mini's new Mini Connected system that it debuted on the Countryman at the 2010 Geneva Auto Show.

Mini's changes to the cars' exteriors are subtle. The company will give all models updated headlamps and side indicator lights, standard LED taillights, and a more pedestrian-friendly front bumper. Also, they will get new wheel designs and a handful of new paint colors also serve to differentiate the 2011 models.

In markets where diesel variants of Mini models are available (translated: not the U.S. market), an all-new 1.6-liter diesel engine will find its way under the hood of the hatchback and, for the first time, convertible models. This engine uses the same variable turbine geometry turbocharging and common rail direct injection technologies as BMW's diesel units and will be available in two tunes: the 90-horsepower One D and the 112-horsepower Cooper D.

We have something of a love/hate relationship with Mini vehicles. Our editors' almost universally love Mini's design, fit, and finish; and there's no denying their excellent handling. However, there are always tiny details that seem to annoy us to no end (see the aforementioned volume knob). So, will a handful of small changes add up to a huge difference for Mini? We won't know for sure until the 2011 Cooper, Clubman, and Cooper convertible models hit dealerships in September.