The Detroit Motor Show, what to expect !

A handy round up of all that you can expect to see at the 2014 Detroit Motor Show

The 2014 Detroit Motor Show is the first major motor show in the 2014 automotive calendar. Officially known as the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS), it opens its doors to the world's press on January 13 2014 before inviting the public in on January 18.

The biggest car manufacturers in the world will be showcasing a whole host of new metal at Detroit, from crazy concept cars to production models that we'll be seeing on the road very soon. And, of course, Auto Express will be there bringing you all the stories live as they happen.

Bookmark this page to stay up to date with the latest from the Detroit Motor Show 2014. We’ll be updating it regularly with all that we know on the biggest stories coming out of this year's show.

Click the links below for the hottest Detroit news stories of the moment and scroll down the page for our full manufacturer-by-manufacturer round-up…

Detroit Motor Show 2014: the key cars

Mercedes C-Class - the all-new Mercedes C-Class compact exec will make its world debut at Detroit with BMW's 3 Series in its sights.

Ford Mustang - the new Ford Mustang takes a bow in production form at Detroit and this one will be sold in the UK.

BMW M3 saloon and M4 coupe - the latest instalment in BMW's M3 dynasty is here but now the coupe version's called M4.   

Audi Q1 concept - Audi is gunning for the Nissan Juke with a new baby SUV concept car.

Lexus RC-F coupe - Lexus hopes to eclipse the BMW M3 with this coupe concept car rumoured to be packing a V8.

Volvo XC Concept - the XC concept car from Volvo should tell us a lot about the design of the new XC90 SUV.

Detroit Motor Show 2014: full round-up 

Audi

Audi has just announced 11 all-new models will be added to the range, and as far as we know the baby Q1 concept will be the first of those to make an appearance, with a debut at Detroit rumoured. It’s aimed at Nissan Juke buyers who crave something a little more premium. BMW and Mercedes are also working on entry-level SUVs

Audi has confirmed a three-door Crossover concept will be on display at Detroit, which is likely to be giving us an insight into the future design direction for the brands next-gen road cars.

BMW

BMW will be one of the busiest manufacturers at the Detroit Motor Show next month with five new or facelifted models making their debuts. Taking centre stage will be the new M3 saloon and M4 coupe, both powered by a 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged six-cylinder engine developing 424bhp. The new high-performance models are lighter, more efficient and more powerful than the outgoing M3.

Sharing the limelight will be the new BMW 2 Series. It’s a replacement for the outgoing 1 Series Coupe which goes on sale in March, priced from £25,040. Facelifted versions of the BMW X1 SUV and Z4 will also be making an appearance at Detroit, both featuring subtle visually tweaks inside and out.

Chevrolet

GM has announced Chevrolet will be pulled out of European markets by 2015 but iconic models such as the Camaro and the Corvette will still be available. The new Z06 will debut at Detroit, so far we’ve only seen a teaser image and rumours suggest the muscle car could use a tweaked version of the 7.0-litre V8 tuned to produce around 600bhp.

Ford

Ford has already showcased the new Mustang at several glamorous locations around the world but Detroit will be its motor show debut. For the first time in its 50 years of production, the Mustang will be made available in right-hand drive in the UK. There’s no official word on pricing but the EcoBoost model should start from around £30,000, with the V8 model demanding a further £5,000.

Infiniti

A potential rival for the BMW M3, the Infiniti Eau Rogue concept will be unveiled at Detroit. We only have a few details about the high-performance saloon and we expect a twin-turbocharged 3.7-litre V6 to fitted under the bonnet, producing around 500bhp. The concept is named after one of the most famous corners in the F1 calendar, a sweeping uphill bend at Belgium’s Spa-Francorchamps circuit.

Kia

Kia has revealed teaser shots of the GT4 Stinger concept car that will be on display at Detroit. We now know it will be  powered by a 311bhp 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine, driving the rear wheels. The teaser images show the concept to have a long bonnet, bulging wheels arches and a short tailgate, giving it the classic sports car look. Kia says the new concept is aimed at "delivering head-turning looks".

Lexus

The first image of the new flagship Lexus RC F coupe has leaked online. It’s set to debut at Detroit where the wraps will also be taken off the car's BMW M4 rival. Under the bonnet, a 5.0-litre V8 has been rumoured, with power somewhere in the region of 455bhp.

MINI

The range-topping model in the new MINI range, the John Cooper Works, will be unveiled in concept form at Detroit. It features an aggressive looking body kit and exclusive paint job as well as being powered by a tuned version of the 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine from the outgoing Cooper S. It should arrive in the UK in summer, priced at around £23,000.

Mercedes

After months of leaked images and spy shots the Mercedes C-Class was finally unveiled in December. The baby exec will draw in the crowds at Detroit with an Estate variant sharing the stage. A whole host of petrol and diesel engines will be availble, with a new 1.6-litre diesel engine adopted from Nissan being the entry-level motor.

Mercedes will again be showcasing the S-Class coupe at Detroit after the concept first debuted at the Frankfurt Motor Show back in September. We’ll have to wait until March at the Geneva Motor Show before we get to see the production model, however.  

Porsche

Porsche will unveil the 991-generation Targa at Detroit, with leaked images online suggesting the car will revert back the original Targa style body that was first seen in 1966.

Toyota

There has been a lot of speculation about a replacement for the Toyota Supra and the Japanese manufacturer has confirmed there will be ‘some form of performance concept at Detroit’. Rumours started circulating about a successor to the Supra back in 2007, when the Toyota FT-HS concept first appeared at the Detroit Motor Show.

Volvo

Volvo will be showcasing the Concept XC Coupe at Detroit, which gives us a glimpse into the future styling of the manufacturers SUVs. It will also influence the design of the XC90, scheduled to arrive in the UK in the middle of 2014.

MORE HERE

TMW - Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from all at The Motoring World.

As 2013 draws to a close, we can look back on a number of huge stories in the motoring world, The Jaguar F-Type, Corvette Stingray, Viper, the continued dominance of the VAG group and the unsteady state of Peugeot Citroen and the return of DATSUN.

SAAB has made a return, MG continues to fail in the UK, the Chinese have proved they can build great cars, along with a new brand Qoros, the new MkIII MINI, Golf MkVII, FIAT's continued takeover of Chrysler along with the stunning Alfa 4C.

Just a tiny amount of news and its only just the start, 2014 is looking like a massive year for the automotive world, we should get first looks at at least three brand new cars from Jaguar Land Rover, BMW's hybrid sports car the i8, The Bentley SUV, New Lambo SUV, and a number of exciting developments from Mercedes, AUDI, Lotus, Citroen and Nissan, again, just a tiny hint of what is to come.

So, from The Motoring World, thank you for taking a few minutes of your valuable time to have a read of my blog, and all things motoring, and please where ever you are, who ever you are, and what ever you do, thank you and have a great Christmas Holiday and I wish you all a great 2014.

Jon Mower

Snowboaring Paceman is a tradition for MINI

When the mountains call, MINI follows. As a global partner of Burton and official presenting partner of the Burton Global Event Series (BEGS), the carmaker will once again deliver plenty of course-side creativity and driving fun in 2014. Next stop in the snowboarding competition calendar is the Burton European Open (BEO), to be held from 13 to 19 January 2014 in the Swiss resort of Laax. More than 300 riders from around the world are expected to attend, including Swiss pro Christian (“Hitsch”) Haller and top women’s snowboarder Enni Rukajärvi of Finland. Amid the superpipe and the slopestyle course, a MINI Paceman will be showcased in a stunning creative rendering by Urban Art Illustrator Andreas Preis.

Wild thing. The MINI Paceman SNOW BEAST.

MINI ascends to dizzy heights once again to present another member of the MINI family in an original creative guise on Crap Sogn Gion in Laax. Last year it was the PirateArtCrew snowboard artists who unveiled an art installation featuring the MINI Countryman; this year Urban Art Illustrator Andreas Preis takes up the challenge to work his magic on a MINI Paceman. Preis is known for his striking designs as displayed, for example, on skateboards and snowboards. Using his expressive illustrative skills, the artist will take the MINI Paceman and turn it into a wild MINI Paceman SNOW BEAST in time for the start of the competitive event. It will have its first public airing against the backdrop of the Burton European Open snowboard competitions and in front of the C_ART container that will be periodically accessible to the public. With his perfectly executed, highly detailed and innovative illustrations, Preis – who shares his working time between Berlin and Barcelona – is the ideal match for MINI. A passionate snowboarder himself, he began his MINI Paceman SNOW BEAST project by selecting five heraldic animals that symbolise mountains and snow: the ibex represents ambition, the eagle vision, the lynx gracefulness, the wolf teamwork and the owl wisdom.

As well as lending his creative touch to the MINI Paceman SNOW BEAST, the artist will appear live on stage in the C_ART container designing Burton Custom Snowboards.

The MINI Feature Award. MINI pays tribute to the secret heroes of the mountains.

As well as being trained on the halfpipe category, all eyes at the Burton European Open and Burton US Open will also turn to the creative tricks executed on the slopestyle course. Here, the snowboarding elite wouldn’t even get off the ground were it not for the expertise of the shape teams responsible for constructing the obstacles on the pistes. The MINI Feature Award aims to bring the backstage heroes into the spotlight. Their task is to design the most innovative feature for the slopestyle contest – while creatively integrating a MINI at a lofty height. The team from Vail, Colorado (Burton US Open) headed by Elliot Cone will pit its skills against the team from Laax (Burton European Open) led by shape master Roger Heid in an exciting battle of creativity. Both teams will receive US$ 5,000 each to support their task. The panel of judges, comprising professional snowboarders, representatives from Burton, judges and media representatives, will announce the winning team at the end of the Burton US Open.

The Burton Global Event Series 2013/2014 presented by MINI.

One year, five events, four countries: the Burton Global Event Series began at the end of this year with the Burton High Fives in Wanaka, New Zealand and the Burton Rail Days in Tokyo, Japan. The Burton European Open in Laax will be followed by the Burton US Open. Qualifying for the latter will take place in Seven Springs, Pennsylvania from 31.1 – 2.2.2014 and the championship itself will be held in Vail, Colorado from 3.3 – 8.3.2014.

MINI is involved in action sports around the world through cooperation and sponsoring activities. As a partner of trend-conscious sports, MINI supports young and creative sports people and, in so doing, promotes the development of their sport. MINI has been the official presenting partner for the Burton Global Event Series since 2011.

Last of the current generation MINI Hatch leaves Plant Oxford.

• Over 1 million current MINI Hatch models built at Plant Oxford between 2006 – 2013
• 1,863,289 total MINI Hatch built since 2001
• 14% of all cars built in the UK last year were MINIs, and 14% exported were MINIs
• The new MINI Hatch production starts, with UK launch in Spring 2014

Having put a smile on over a million drivers’ faces across the globe, the last of the outgoing MINI Hatch drove off the production line at Plant Oxford today.

With production of the new MINI Hatch underway, associates at the brand’s historic Oxfordshire home took a moment to recognise their achievements in building a car which has formed the backbone of MINI’s burgeoning global growth.

1,041,412 of the outgoing MINI Hatch model have been produced at the high-tech facility, which has built more than 2.4 million MINI vehicles since 2001. 14% of all cars built in the UK last year were MINIs, and MINIs accounted for 14% of all UK vehicle exports in 2012.

When launched in 2006, the outgoing MINI Hatch saw the introduction of turbo charged engines and suspension enhancements which cemented MINI’s reputation for enthralling driving dynamics. With the introduction of MINIMALISM technologies, customers also benefited from improved fuel economy and performance in equal measure. MINI Connected appeared for the first time, setting the standard in the segment for infotainment and connectivity. This model also furthered MINI’s exciting and unique programme of customisation and personalisation, from bespoke roof designs to interior colour worlds, which has become synonymous with the MINI brand.

The New MINI Hatch is set to receive its UK launch in Spring 2014. Distinctly familiar, yet completely fresh from the ground up and enhanced in every single way, the new MINI Hatch features significant improvements in technology, engine efficiency and power delivery, driving dynamics, quality and – of course – personalisation.

More new MINI release info and picturers.

•  New edition of the premium small car segment original; new MINI with hallmark emotional design, further optimised balance between driving fun and fuel consumption, innovative networking technology and clever functionality; significant advances in the areas of spatial comfort, safety, equipment, quality of material and finish as well as sporty flair and ride comfort as the result of consistently and extensively refined product substance; new model generation now more than ever before the benchmark for driving fun, premium quality and individual flair within its competitive environment.

•  Exterior design refined on an evolutionary basis with hallmark styling, proportions and body structure; characteristic design features such as hexagonal radiator grille, headlamps and rear light clusters with wide chrome surround, turn indicator element and peripheral body surround in black reinterpreted and given additional emphasis due to the surface design in each specific area; high-end details underscore the sophisticated nature of the new model; five exterior paint finishes, roof in contrasting colour available as an option at no extra charge.

•  Newly designed headlamps; daytime driving light; optional: LED headlamps including daytime driving ring with integrated direction indicator, adaptive light distribution and LED fog lamps; rear lights also optionally available in LED technology, optional lighting package with LED interior lights and orange-coloured ambient lighting.

•  Vehicle length increased by 98 millimetres, width by 44 millimetres, height by 7 millimetres, also longer wheelbase (+ 28 millimetres) and larger track width (front + 42 millimetres, rear + 34 millimetres) as compared to the predecessor model (differential figures relate to MINI Cooper); optimised spatial comfort on all four seats; new seat design with larger adjustment range at front and longer seat surface at rear (+ 23 millimetres); more shoulder room and foot space as well as increased comfort for rear passengers; luggage compartment volume increased by 51 litres to 211 litres; rear backrest foldable with 60 : 40 split; optional storage package including luggage compartment floor which can be locked into place at varying points.

•  New generation of engines with MINI TwinPower Turbo Technology; three model variants available as of market launch: MINI Cooper with 100 kW/136 bhp 3-cylinder engine, MINI Cooper S with 141 kW/192 bhp 4-cylinder petrol engine and MINI Cooper D with 3-cylinder diesel engine (85 kW/116 bhp); 6-speed manual transmission as standard, with optional 6-speed automatic transmission or sports automatic transmission, also newly developed; extensive MINIMALISM technology including automatic engine start/stop function likewise in conjunction with automatic transmission and optional GREEN mode; improved driving performance figures and reduced fuel consumption; biggest efficiency advance in the MINI Cooper with automatic transmission: acceleration from zero to 100 km/h 2.6 seconds faster, average fuel consumption 27 per cent lower; lowest fuel consumption and CO2 levels in the MINI Cooper D: 3.5 – 3.6 litres/100 km, 92 – 95 g/km (EU test cycle figures, dependent on tyre format selected).

•  Intensification of the typical MINI go-kart feeling with extensively revised suspension technology, reduced weight and increased rigidity; new single-joint spring strut axle with aluminium swivel bearing and also axle supports and wishbones made of high-strength steel; new multilink rear axle also in optimised lightweight construction and space-saving geometry; refined electromechanical power steering now with Servotronic as standard; Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) as standard including Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) and Electronic Differential Lock Control (EDLC), in the MINI Cooper S also including Performance Control; new spring and damper set-up with triple-path support bearings; Dynamic Damper Control optionally available for the first time in MINI; refined brake system, adapted to increased driving performance; light alloy wheels in 15-inch or 16-inch (MINI Cooper S) format as standard; light allow wheels optionally available up to 18 inches.

•  Variable vehicle set-up using the new Driving Modes option by means of rotary switch at the base of the gearshift or selector lever; in addition to the standard setting MID mode, the modes SPORT and GREEN can be activated; choice of mode influences the characteristic curve of the accelerator and steering, as well as the shift times of the automatic transmission and the Dynamic Damper Control where these features are fitted; GREEN mode in conjunction with automatic transmission enables coasting with decoupled drivetrain.

•  New display and operating concept: instrument cluster on the steering column showing road speed and engine speed, colour display for vehicle status details and fuel level; central instrument with new display elements and coloured lighting configuration including LED ring for visual feedback in response to numerous operating functions, 4-line TFT display as standard or optional colour display up to 8.8 inches in size; operation of navigation, entertainment, telephone and vehicle functions using MINI Controller in centre console with the relevant feedback provided on the on-board computer; start/stop button at the centre of the toggle switch bar on the centre console, can be activated without key insertion; power window lifts in the door trim panels; operating panel for lights in the dashboard.

•  Body structure weight-optimised and crash-optimised; standard safety features including front and side airbags, side curtain airbags, 3-point automatic seat belts on all seats, with belt tensioners and belt force limiters at front, ISOFIX children's seat mounting at rear, Run Flat Indicator and partially active engine compartment lid to optimise pedestrian protection; vehicle weight lower than in predecessor models and competitors in the segment in virtually all variants of the new MINI despite extended range of fittings; increased acoustic and vibrational comfort: optimised aerodynamic properties as appropriate to each specific model including active cooling air flaps, underbody trim panel and air ducting elements in the upper section of the C columns; best aerodynamic figures within the competitive environment: Cd value reduced to 0.28 (MINI Cooper, MINI Cooper D).

•  New MINI with significantly extended range of innovative driver assistance systems: MINI Head-Up-Display, Driving Assistant including camera-based active cruise control, collision and pedestrian warning with initial brake function, high beam assistant and road sign detection, parking assistant; rear view camera.

•  Newly structured MINI Connected in-car infotainment program with additional functions; Emergency Call and MINI Teleservices available for use with permanently installed SIM card; unique range of functions and the opportunity for ongoing expansion due to apps allowing integration in the car via smartphone; increased driving fun with typical MINI functions such as Mission Control, Dynamic Music, Driving Excitement and MINIMALISM Analyser; new MINI Connected XL Journey Mate with Real Time Traffic Information; online connection also allows the use of social networks such as Facebook, Twitter, foursquare and Glympse, the reception of RSS newsfeeds and entertainment features such as AUPEO!, Stitcher, Deezer, Audible, Napster/Rhapsody and TuneIn.

•  Extensive standard fittings and high-end options to increase comfort, premium characteristics and individual flair; these include: rain sensor, Park Distance Control, Comfort Access, electrically operated glass roof, roof rails, electrically heated and folding exterior mirrors, interior and exterior mirrors with automatic anti-dazzle function, seat heating, 2-zone automatic air conditioning, rear spoiler in John Cooper Works design; large selection of decorative roof and exterior mirror options, bonnet stripes, seat upholsteries, interior surfaces and Colour Lines; MINI navigation system, MINI Radio Visual Boost, harman kardon hi-fi speaker system.

•  Engine variants:
MINI Cooper S: 4-cylinder petrol engine with MINI TwinPower Turbo Technology (turbo charging, direct injection, fully variable valve control, variable camshaft control),
capacity: 1 998 cc, output: 141 kW/192 bhp at 4 700 – 6 000 rpm, max. torque: 280 Nm at 1 250 – 4 750 rpm
(300 Nm with overboost),
acceleration (0–100 km/h): 6.8 seconds (automatic: 6.7 seconds),
top speed: 235 km/h (233 km/h),
average fuel consumption*: 5.7 – 5.8 litres (5.2 – 5.4 litres)/100 kilometres,
CO2 emissions*: 133 – 136 g/km (122 – 125 g/km), exhaust emission standard: EU6.

MINI Cooper: 3-cylinder petrol engine with MINI TwinPower Turbo Technology (turbo charging, direct injection, fully variable valve control, variable camshaft control),
capacity: 1 499 cc,
output: 100 kW/136 bhp at 4 500 – 6 000 rpm,
max. torque: 220 Nm at 1 250 – 4 000 rpm
(230 Nm with overboost),
acceleration (0–100 km/h): 7.9 seconds (automatic: 7.8 seconds),
top speed: 210 km/h (210 km/h),
average fuel consumption*: 4.5 – 4.6 litres (4.7 – 4.8 litres)/100 kilometres,
CO2 emissions*: 105 – 107 g/km (109 – 112 g/km).

MINI Cooper D: 3-cylinder diesel engine with MINI TwinPower Turbo Technology (turbocharger with variable turbine geometry, common rail direct injection, max. fuel injection pressure: 2 000 bar),
capacity: 1 496 cc,
output: 85 kW/116 bhp at 4 000 rpm,
max. torque: 270 Nm at 1 750 rpm,
acceleration (0–100 km/h): 9.2 seconds (automatic: 9.2 seconds),
top speed: 205 km/h (204 km/h),
average fuel consumption*: 3.5 – 3.6 litres (3.7 – 3.8 litres)/100 kilometres,
CO2 emissions*: 92 – 95 g/km (98 – 99 g/km), exhaust emission standard: EU6.

* Fuel consumption depends on the selected tyre format.

•  Exterior dimensions:
Length: 3 821 millimetres (MINI Cooper S: 3 850 millimetres)
Width: 1 727 millimetres)
Height: 1 414 millimetres)
Wheelbase: 2 495 millimetres

The 3rd generation MINI from design, to clay to production

With its unmistakeable design and undiluted driving fun, the first example of the classic Mini sparked a revolution in the car market when it entered the fray in 1959. Then, in 2001, the new MINI emerged from the BMW Group stable to lead the premium compact class into the new millennium. And now MINI is poised to set new standards once again when it unveils the latest incarnation of this iconic car on 18 November 2013.

The new MINI is one thing above all else: a typical MINI – in its most concentrated and contemporary form. A car built for individualists, it whisks the legendary forms of the classic Mini from 1959 into the present day and takes to the stage with greater presence and maturity than ever. “The new MINI generation strikes the perfect balance between MINI heritage, future-defining forms and innovations,” says Anders Warming, Head of MINI Design.

Exterior design: distinctive proportions, striking lines, classily accentuated details.

At first glance, the new MINI cuts a familiar figure. Its snappy proportions, short overhangs andhallmark “stance on the wheels” reflect the agile driving characteristics of the MINI. Look again more closely, however, and the new MINI reveals its enhanced design qualities. The new generation brings even greater precision and class to the car’s classic iconic features, in particular. Keen to express the characteristic form of the hexagonal radiator grille more clearly, the designers have introduced a smooth, one-piece chrome frame for the first time.

The design of the lights has also been revised. With their new graphics and clearly structured inner workings, the headlights and rear lights accentuate the more grown-up appearance of the new MINI. The trapezoidal rear lights of the previous model are now larger and have greater presence, and they more closely resemble rounded-off rectangles from the outside. As before, they have chrome ring surrounds, and now they extend into the boot lid. Positioned far to the outer edges of the car, the rear lights also underline the prominently sporting stance of the new MINI. The new model is the first car in its segment to be available as an option with LED headlights.

The defining design elements are expressed with greater intensity than ever. Additional creases trace the outlines of the headlights, wheel arches, headlights and rear lights to the side, giving the design a more striking and contemporary edge. A selection of detailed stylistic embellishments reflects the more mature character of the new MINI. For example, an arrow-shaped dynamic line shapes the newly interpreted turn indicator units. Chrome elements on the radiator grille, lights and door handles draw the eye to typical MINI design cues, and the optional Chrome package brings an extra splash of exclusivity to the exterior of the new MINI.

The proportions of the latest-generation car remain unmistakeably MINI. Although it has grown by around 10 centimetres in its latest guise, the relationship between its dimensions remains unchanged. Short overhangs, plus the lights extending round into the car’s flanks at the front and rear create a short and agile impression despite the car’s longer exterior measurements and help give the MINI its familiar compact overall impression. The designers have added further bite to the car’s crisp, sporty appearance by moving the radiator grille back as far as possible towards the front wheels.

Among the features designed to enhance the car’s dynamic looks is the improved flow of its lines. This design cue is clearly visible in the newly designed flanks, which now exude even greater energy and verve. Plus, as the window graphic tapers towards the rear, it lends the sides of the car a dynamic wedge shape, which draws attention to the forward-surging presence of the new MINI.

The slightly downward-sloping roofline makes the car feel as if it is powering forward before it has even moved. The roofline is more substantial than its predecessors and continues the sweep of the windscreen, bringing the driver into the visual centre of the new MINI. At the same time, the roof appears to be floating over the car, emphasising the hallmark MINI three-way split of body, glasshouse and roof.

Among the drivers behind the new car’s powerful and planted stance on the road are its prominently flared wheel arches. In order to give the latest MINI an even sportier and muscular appearance, all design elements – such as the rear lights – are positioned as far as possible to the outside.

Interior design: innovative new features, authenticity in detail.

The new MINI remains true to its principles by using creativity and innovation to offer customers maximum versatility and interior space despite minimised exterior dimensions. But a MINI would not be a MINI if it didn’t constantly re-invent itself. Indeed, for the first time all driving-related displays, such as the speedometer and fuel gauge, are grouped together in a new instrument cluster positioned ahead of the driver on the steering column, directly in the line of vision. There is no Centre Speedo in the classical sense. The circular central instrument remains in place but it no longer contains an analogue speedometer. Instead it has morphed into a graphics-based element displaying various functions, notably the car’s entertainment and navigation systems and other infotainment features. A new interface and an interactive LED display ring create an emotionally invigorating overall experience. The electric window switches and handbrake are now within easier reach. The chrome window toggle switches are now integrated into the armrests, making them comfortable to use. The handbrake is located in a driver-focused position on the left-hand side of the re-designed centre console.

Likewise hot off the press is the optional Head Up Display. This system uses a combiner to project information such as the car’s speed and navigation instructions into the driver’s field of view. The image appears as if floating over the bonnet ridge. This has the advantage that the driver does not have to adjust his focus away from the road and refocus his eyes between areas close to the car and objects further away.

The extremely horizontal emphasis of modern dashboards creates a generous feeling of space; surfaces are tightened and have more precise edges. The dashboard’s upper cover provides a flowing surface over the instruments and provides them with an upper border. The central instrument and circular outer air vents project out from the dashboard in typically MINI three-dimensional style. At the same time, the vents create an elegant transition from the cockpit into the door trim, where their form extends into an ellipse. The vent grilles on the right and left of the central instrument are less “playful” now and feature horizontal and vertical slats.

Atmospheric “Ambient Light” brings an enhanced feeling of space to the interior and accentuates the distinctive door design.

The rear seats have also been completely re-designed for the new model generation. The new car has a clear four-seat configuration, and the individual-seat character of the rear compartment is immediately noticeable. Indeed, the rear seats continue the sporty and grown-up theme of the new MINI in the rear of the car. The lateral support provided by the seats is designed to promote sporty driving, bringing the go-kart feeling into play for rear passengers as well.

The colour and material design: maximising the scope for customisation.

All MINI drivers have their own style. That’s why the new MINI also majors on maximising the scope for customisation. A large number of unusual choices inject fresh intrigue into the familiar MINI range of colours and materials and enable customers to configure their MINI to reflect their personality. For example, 12 exterior colours cover a wide variety of bases – from striking via sporty to elegant. The five new colours shades Volcanic Orange, Moonwalk Grey, Blazing Red, Deep Blue and Electric Blue freshen up the familiar MINI colour pallet and add exciting new options.

The MINI also offers scope for further interior customisation with a choice of five Colour Lines. Customers looking to personalise their car to the maximum can choose from 10 seat cover designs and other optional trim surface variants.

The two new colour and material worlds – “Off-White” and “Dark Cottonwood” – available as part of the MINI Yours interior style packages offer customers exclusive equipment variants that underline the individual character of the MINI.

Welcome new MINI to plant Oxford

The new MINI has made its worldwide debut today (18 November) at MINI’s UK production plant in Oxford and features all-new vehicle architecture , an evolutionary design and a range of new fuel-efficient engines to give owners even more fun behind the wheel. A £750 million investment across three of BMW Group’s UK manufacturing facilities marks the launch of the new car with a new 1,000-robot body shop at Plant Oxford, the debut of new technologies at the steel body pressings operation in Swindon, and new machining and assembly facilities to produce a new generation of three and four-cylinder engines at the Hams Hall engine plant near Birmingham.

Prime Minister David Cameron said: "I was lucky enough to get an early preview of the new Mini - a classic British icon - during a visit to the factory in Oxford last month. This £750 million investment is great news for both the local and wider economy, along with the 5,500 workers whose jobs are safeguarded by this launch.  

"Car manufacturing is a vital engine for growth. Production is back up to pre-recession levels and a car rolls off the line every 20 seconds in the UK. But we're not complacent. Our industrial strategy is a key part of the Government's economic plan and we’re helping to drive the car industry further and faster with over £4bn of investment."

Harald Krueger, BMW Group’s board member for production, said: “In our Oxford plant’s centenary year, we are continuing the MINI brand success story and today starting production of the third model generation. Our total investment of £750 million in our British production locations of Oxford, Swindon and Hams Hall between 2012 and 2015 underscores the importance of the MINI production triangle within our global production network. The UK is the heart of MINI production – thanks to the experience, competence and strong commitment of all our employees.”

The investment means additional job security for the 5,500 associates currently working in the UK MINI production network. Besides a new state-of-the-art body shop, the Oxford plant also benefits from upgrades to its paint shop, its final assembly area and from a series of initiatives reducing the operation’s carbon footprint and improving its waste management processes.  The introduction of the new MINI has also seen a significant investment in the most extensive workforce training programme undertaken at the plant.

Even though there’s instant recognition – something which comes from having such a globally identifiable design – the new MINI is completely new from the ground up in an effort to optimise its styling, function and performance. With its market launch in Spring 2014, the new car offers an enhanced standard specification, an extensive range of options to allow customers to adapt the car to their individual style, higher comfort levels, comprehensive safety technology including pedestrian protection and more innovative networking technology. Longer and wider than its predecessor, the new model provides more interior space for both the driver and passengers. Extensively revised suspension technology, reduced weight and increased rigidity have intensified the typical MINI go-kart feeling.  

Commenting on the new model, Peter Schwarzenbauer, BMW Group’s board member for MINI, BMW Motorrad, Rolls-Royce, Aftersales BMW Group said: “MINI is an inspiration for trend-setters and creative spirits the world over. And with our latest generation of MINI, we want to excite once again. To ensure the new generation of MINI is as successful as its predecessors, we have made just subtle modifications to its design. But beneath the outer skin is a brand-new car with state-of-the-art technologies seen for the first time at a small car”.

Classic 1959 Mini barn find - re-Born in the Netherlands.

Car number 983 is back on the road, heralding a revival of MINI production in the Netherlands in the near future. A 54-year-old classic Mini has been fully restored at the VDL Nedcar car manufacturing plant in the town of Born, the precision work lasting around six months. The historic Austin Seven with production number 983 dates back to 1959 and was one of the first examples of the classic Mini to be assembled in the Netherlands. The car was unearthed last year in an old barn in Groningen, ravaged by the passage of time and as such an ideal candidate for the “reBorn” mission.

The classic machine has since been imbued with a fresh injection of sparkle, making it the perfect scene-setter for a new chapter in Dutch-British car making relations. Next year VDL Nedcar will begin production of MINI models under contract; MINI will be the only manufacturer having vehicles series-produced in the Netherlands.

And so MINI is poised to retrace the steps of its historic forebears. Just a few months after its launch in August 1959 – in Morris Mini-Minor and Austin Seven form – the classic Mini found itself an additional birthplace in continental Europe, the Amersfoort-based firm J.J. Molenaar’s Car Companies turning its hand to assembly of the classic Mini between 1959 and 1966. More than 4,000 units were built over this period, using components delivered from the United Kingdom, plus one or two special additions only found in the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

Among the select group of 30 cars built in that first year in Amersfoort was the Austin Seven now making its post-barn comeback. This may therefore be the oldest example of the Dutch-built classic Mini currently in roadworthy condition; it is absolutely one of the oldest representatives of the brand anywhere in the world. But to top it all, it is a genuine “barn find” having been hidden away in said abode for almost a quarter of a century before being re-discovered and examined by BMW Group Netherlands employees.

The decision to restore the car was taken quickly, aided by the certainty regarding its origins. The car’s chassis and production numbers were easily identifiable and the seats were upholstered – in traditional Dutch style – using real horsehair.

A five-strong team from VDL Nedcar took on the restoration challenge, stripping the classic Mini down to its bare bones before gradually piecing it back together again. The quintet were able to tap into a reliable well of experience and specialist knowledge in the fields of body and engine construction and apply this expertise extensively. The small 34 hp four-cylinder engine  and the gearbox were given a total overhaul and some body parts and the door panels had to be rebuilt by hand.

The restorers used faithful replicas of original parts wherever possible and enjoyed valuable assistance from the MINI Community in tracking them down. The restoration process was documented in full at www.facebook.com/Mini.reBorn1959, and that attracted a flood of helpful tips – not to mention the odd long-lost part – from sources around the world. The classic Mini set off on the first test drive of its second life like it was 1959 all over again; the “reBorn” mission had been accomplished. Another contributory factor in the freshness of the car is its new paintwork in the original shade Farina Grey.

Around 1,500 employees will be responsible for building MINI cars when production starts in Born in summer 2014, and among their number will be the five “midwives” who helped deliver the forgotten Mini back into the world. Their efforts are now concentrated squarely on preparing for the future of MINI production at the plant. But they are given daily reminders of their journey back into the brand’s past as car number 983 – “reBorn” in the Netherlands – looks over them from pride of place in the foyer of the new MINI focused production facility.

USA, BMW group has level October.

• BMW sales up 4.2 percent
• MINI sales down 3.2  percent
• BMW Motorcycle sales up 23.4 percent

The BMW Group in the U.S. (BMW and MINI combined) reported October sales of 33,274 vehicles, an increase of 2.9 percent from the 32,339 vehicles sold in the same month a year ago. Year-to-date, the BMW Group (BMW and MINI combined) is up 10.6 percent on sales of 295,474 in the first ten months of 2013 compared to 267,267 in the same period in 2012.  

“The momentum of October is a good indicator of what’s ahead in the final 60 days of the year, especially with sales of the new X5 and the 4 Series beginning to have an impact,” said Ludwig Willisch, President and CEO, BMW of North America.   “All of the leading indicators – sales, order rates, showroom traffic, finance applications – are up, very good signs.”

BMW Brand Sales

Sales of BMW vehicles increased 4.2 percent in October for a total of 27,574 compared to 26,451 vehicles sold in October, 2012. Year-to-date, the BMW brand is up 12.8 percent on sales of 240,139 compared to 212,848 sold in the first ten months of 2012.

In October, best performing vehicles included the BMW X1 with an impressive increase of 60.4 percent compared to October 2012.  The BMW 3 and newly launched 4 Series, both leaders in their segments, also ended the month with an increase of 20.4 percent compared to October 2012.  The BMW 5 and 6 Series increased sales 18.7 percent and 19.6 percent, respectively, over sales in October 2012.

BMW Pre-Owned Vehicles
In October, sales of BMW used vehicles (including certified pre-owned and pre-owned) increased 23.4 percent to 15,502 vehicles compared to the 12,563 vehicles sold in October, 2012. January through October, BMW used vehicle sales are up 9.2 percent on volume of 147,638 compared to 135,139 in the same period of 2012.

MINI Brand Sales

In October, MINI USA reported sales of 5,700 automobiles, a decrease of 3.2 percent from the 5,888 sold in the same month a year ago. Year-to-date, MINI sales in the U.S. are up 1.7 percent on volume of 55,335 compared to 54,419 in the first ten months of 2012.

MINI Pre-Owned Vehicles
In October, MINI used automobiles (including MINI NEXT certified pre-owned and pre-owned) continued its year of record breaking, smashing last year’s October sales with an increase of 30.4 percent to 1,962 vehicles from 1,505 sold in October, 2012. January through October, MINI used vehicle sales are up 19.1 percent on volume of 18,143 compared to 15,233 in the same period of 2012.

BMW Motorrad Sales

The BMW Motorrad USA dealer network sold 1,067 motorcycles in October, an increase of 23.4 percent from the total of 865 motorcycles sold in October 2012.

Maxi scooter sales rose by 73 percent in October with 57 units compared to 33 last year.

With 219 deliveries compared to 136 in October 2012, sales of F-Series middleweight machines increased by 61 percent while the G-Series maintained last year’s volume with 56 units.

The arrival of 2014 model R 1200 GSW inventory drove R-Series growth of 52 percent with the water-cooled boxer the best selling BMW motorcycle in October with 314 units.

Similarly, new colors helped drive growth of 4 percent in superbike sales with a combined total of 142 HP4 and S 1000 RR models delivered to customers in October.

Table 2: Motorcycle Sales BMW of North America, LLC, October 2013