SURVIVAL GUIDE SECOND-GENERATION MINIS
BMW’s relaunch of the MINI brand has to be the perfect example of how to replace a motoring icon. Yet, after five years and 1,000,000 R50 and R53 MINIs sold, 2006 was time for the second-generation range.
What stayed the same was the MINI hatch’s mixture of retro-inspired looks, keen driving experience and wide selection of personalisation. But to address some of the criticisms of the first-generation MINI hatch, quality was improved with a bolder, all-new interior that was less likely to rattle.
Even bigger changes took place under the MINI’s clamshell bonnet. A tie-up with Peugeot/Citroen (PSA) saw the Chrysler-supplied petrols and Toyota D-4D diesel replaced with sophisticated and efficient 1.4- and 1.6-litre Prince engines, with the Cooper S and John Cooper Works (JCW) versions now being turbocharged rather than supercharged. All models had six-speed manual or optional automatic transmissions.
The diesel engine was originally supplied by PSA too, in 1.6-litre form, then later coming from BMW in 1.6 and 2.0-litre forms.
It was developed further, with spin-off models including the quirky R55 Clubman estate, the sporty R58 Coupe and R59 Roadster,
