For as long as I can remember, the likelihood of a diesel MINI model coming to the U.S. wasn’t very high. Well, that could all be changing soon. Rumors are circulating that in 2013, Americans will have the choice of buying a MINI diesel.
How did all this come about? At first, the cost of certifying a new diesel engine in the U.S. appeared to be too great, which would’ve severely increased the purchase price and cost of MINI repairs. Winter Park drivers are understandably interested to see learn this hurtle was overcome. The answer involves a new relationship with BMW.
By partnering with this automaker and sharing costs across its X1 and the MINI Countryman Cooper SD, MINI finally got the cost down to a reasonable level. Besides the price, everything MINI fans love about Europe’s diesel Cooper SD will remain unchanged. The vehicle will still perform at 143 horsepower with 225 lb.-ft of torque.
Although the rumors only allude to a diesel Countryman, if this model sells well, I see no reason why MINI wouldn’t offer more. At Orlando MINI, we’re excited to be able to offer our customers yet another choice of vehicle to meet their driving needs.
