Mini confirms it is considering diesel for U.S. by 2011

Posted: Feb 10, 2009
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According to Mini Vice President Jim McDowell, Mini is considering a diesel engine for the U.S. market by 2010 or 2011. He said that the diesels that Mini currently offers in other markets do not meet U.S. clean-air regulations so Americans will have to weight until the BMW brand comes out with a next-generation diesel engine that will be approved for all 50 states.

Speaking to USA Today, McDowell cautioned that the move is “not certain.” He said that when and if a diesel becomes a reality for the U.S. it will be offered as an option across its range. That includes the Mini Cooper hatchback, convertible, Clubman and the upcoming Mini SUV.

Pricing is another factor that Mini will study closely. McDowell says that current Mini Cooper buyers end up going “out the door with $4,000″ in options.

The current Mini Cooper Diesel sold in other markets averages a combined fuel-economy of 32 mpg combined. Bosch is also testing a modified version of the car in the U.S. and reports a fuel-economy in excess of 60 mpg.

Source: USA Today (via Kicking Tires)


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  • Pat

    I CONSIDER buying one if they came here… I'm a MINI fan somewhere deeep inside

  • kabluey

    Pat I had two and still have one–just move on buddy–trust me…

    I regret the very day when I handed someone money for one of those cars…

  • Pat

    really?? they seem like such go-kart fun. what problems did you have?

  • zermatt

    Pat,

    We have leased 2 Mini Cooper S's for the teens in the house (one supercharged and the current one is a turbo). Both have been problem free and return great gas mileage.

    I even enjoy driving the Minis. It is go cart like in steering and handling, but I wouldn't call the Mini a a Road trip car. The short wheel base makes for a choppy ride if the interstate you are on has bad pavement surfacing. The car is great for urban and suburban driving.

    Finally, the teens have found the current car to be a good autocross vehicle. The Turbo has done well in it's class.

    Test drive one for yourself and see if you like it.

  • zermatt

    Pat,

    We have leased 2 Mini Cooper S's for the teens in the house (one supercharged and the current one is a turbo). Both have been problem free and return great gas mileage.

    I even enjoy driving the Minis. It is go cart like in steering and handling, but I wouldn't call the Mini a a Road trip car. The short wheel base makes for a choppy ride if the interstate you are on has bad pavement surfacing. The car is great for urban and suburban driving.

    Finally, the teens have found the current car to be a good autocross vehicle. The Turbo has done well in it's class.

    Test drive one for yourself and see if you like it.