[imgx]http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/picture_library/dir_26/car_portal_pic_13089.jpg[/img]

Mini facelift 2005
It looks as though we're in for a real adventure in 2005! Seen here being driven to its limits and beyond, this odd-looking MINI is our first glimpse of the forthcoming facelifted model, which promises to be even more fun than its cheeky predecessor when it's unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show next March.

Having been careful to pen a suitable 21st century successor to the original Mini, it seems parent company BMW has played it safe and left the styling virtually untouched for the next-generation model. But that doesn't mean there won't be significant refinements to the design.

As you can see, a new front bumper has been fitted to direct more air to the engine, and the gaping inlet on the bonnet for the supercharger reveals this car's identity as a Cooper S. What's more, lower side skirts help give the hatchback a more aggressive stance. Engineers and test drivers are concentrating on correcting the MINI's few faults and adding even more spice to the car's lively handling. This prototype has a test rig on the tailgate that lets experts feel the effect of different rear downforce rates by making fine adjustments to the roof spoiler.

One of our main complaints about the current MINI is the firm ride, so the unforgiving 18-inch wheels fitted to this model are testing the ability of a new suspension set-up. They also make the car look sportier in flagship S guise. The current MINI is a top seller, so there are high hopes that the revised version will capitalise on that success.

Company insiders have already hinted that a mighty 300-HP edition could be in the pipeline as a supercar-baiting flagship prepared by the officially endorsed tuning firm, John Cooper Works in West Sussex. Details of changes to trim levels and prices remain a secret, but the retro-style cabin is expected to feature a number of revisions.

Redesigned front seats will provide more lateral support, while the recline and fold mechanism will be easier to use. The dials on the dash are set to make way for chronometer-type gauges similar to those in the Lexus IS200.

Meanwhile, the MINI range will be expanded next year with the introduction of the Open convertible version, which should be in the showrooms in time for the summer. The car's official debut is also scheduled for the Geneva show, and it is expected that all of the cosmetic and mechanical revisions now being made to the hatchback will feature on the soft-top.
bron: autoexpress.co.uk