World debut of MINI Coupé coming soon

The 2011 Frankfurt International Motor Show (IAA) is about to kick off! And one of the stars of this show, which takes place from 15-25 September 2011, will undoubtedly be the brand new MINI Coupé, which makes its worldwide debut at this important motoring event.

The company gave motoring enthusiasts an inkling of what was to come two years ago, when a concept car previewing a two-seater Coupé from the MINI brand turned heads aplenty at the Frankfurt Motor Show. We particularly like the car’s roof, which has a standard contrasting paint finish, accentuating its distinctive design. We also really fancy the active rear spoiler, fitted for the first time on a MINI, which optimises airflow at higher speeds.

Integrated in the boot lid, the spoiler pops up automatically when the MINI Coupé reaches a speed of 80 km/h (50 mph). When the speed drops below 60 km/h (37 mph) again, a four-part control mechanism returns the spoiler to its rest position. It is also possible to operate the active rear spoiler manually, for example for cleaning purposes, using a button in the overhead control panel. At higher speeds, the active rear spoiler reduces lift at the rear axle, optimising the aerodynamic balance – and therefore the grip levels – of the MINI Coupé.

Other particularly noteworthy features include oval recesses in the roof liner, which are specific to the MINI Coupé and emphasise the car’s two-seat design, and the wide through-loading facility linking the cabin and luggage compartment. MINI is keeping mum about when the Coupé will come to South Africa. But watch this space!