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Hard to find a low mileage 8 years old Mini Cooper, so be prepared to spend money on maintenance and repairs. Used to have a Mini Cooper 1.5 as a second family car, bought new and it never give us much problem as it was lightly used. I won't recommend it as a work horse.

R56 Cooper S was the cheapest Cooper S 🤭

One: 1.2tonne with 102hp Cooper: 1.2tonne with 136hp Cooper S: 1.3tonne with 184hp

Please don't buy mini one. At least a cooper... best is cooper S. If mini one, stay will the pulser.

go for at least cooper s and above for mini the refinement and power of S is too much better than mini one

@Voodooman have been driving a mini since R series and recently decided to trade in my 5yrs old F series Cooper S with clocked less than 50k mileage for a Luxus. you need a deeper pocket to own a mini especially for those who are buying preowned. need to beware of steering rack issue, coolant / engine oil exchanger, coolant / gearbox oil exchanger, engine mount, water pump leak, turbo oil leak... too many to mention😂 i would suggest if want to try mini than get a new car and enjoy 5 yrs of warranty.

Consumer Reports’ New Annual Auto Reliability Data Reveals Safest Bets and Riskiest Choices Among New Vehicles Lexus achieves top spot among automakers in auto reliability brand ranking with Mazda, Toyota, close behind. Buick continues as the most reliable domestic brand--and the only one in top 10. https://www.consumerreports.org/media-room/press-releases/2021/11/consumer-reports-new-annual-auto-reliability-data-reveals-safest-bets-and-riskiest-choices-among-new-vehicles/ Release date 11/18/2021. YONKERS, NY — Eight of the top ten most reliable brands are from Asia, and only one--Buick--is a domestic, according to the latest Annual Auto Reliability data from Consumer Reports (CR), the nonprofit research, testing, and consumer advocacy organization. But there were some positive indicators for the domestics, too, as American models topped seven vehicle categories--an unusually strong showing. The 2021 Auto Reliability Report is based on data collected from CR members about their experiences with more than 300,000 vehicles in the annual surveys. The survey findings were announced at an online news conference before the Detroit-based Automotive Press Association today. Owners reported everything from transmissions needing replacement after as little as 5,000 miles to display screens that required hardware replacement and misaligned tailgates and doors. "With new-car prices at all-time highs and a shortage of vehicles on dealers’ lots, it’s more important than ever to consider reliability when you invest in something new,” said Jake Fisher, senior director of auto testing at Consumer Reports. “Buying a reliable vehicle can help ensure that you’ll be able to hit the road when you need to, and not worry about getting stuck waiting on parts for repairs.” Other highlights from CR’s influential annual report include the following: Despite their complexity, hybrids and plug-in vehicles are among the most reliable models. High-end electric-powered Sport Utility Vehicles are among the least reliable vehicles, but NOT because of their relatively simple powertrains. Complex electronics are their Achilles Heel, at least for now. Some Hyundai, Kia, Subaru, and Toyota models continue to have problems due to technologically advanced, and complex, transmissions. CR’s auto statisticians calculate reliability ratings for every major mainstream car, minivan, SUV, and truck on the market, even ones that are brand-new and redesigned for 2021. To do so, the team analyzes annual CR member surveys data on a model’s reliability history, calculating the brand’s overall reliability and, if applicable, the reliability of models that use some of the same components. Consumer Reports’ analysis of new-car reliability is a key element of CR’s Overall Score, which is a holistic measure of a vehicle’s quality designed to make it easy for consumers to quickly find the best cars, SUVs, and trucks to suit their needs. The Overall Score also includes road-test performance, owner satisfaction survey results, whether a vehicle comes with key active safety systems, and results from crash tests, if applicable. “The pandemic is creating a scramble for consumers as they face a reduced supply of new cars and significantly higher prices. That's why it's more important than ever that people get trusted help finding safe, secure, and reliable vehicles,” said Marta Tellado, President and CEO of Consumer Reports. “Our annual reliability reports, combined with our comprehensive auto testing, can empower consumers with the trusted information to make better purchases and navigate this unusually difficult marketplace.” Eight of the 10 Top Brands are from Asia Of the top ten most reliable automakers, eight are headquartered in Asia, with Lexus, Mazda, and Toyota in the top three spots respectively. Historically, Lexus and Toyota have regularly been at the top of CR’s brand rankings for reliability. That’s an especially noteworthy accomplishment for Toyota, which has a wide array of different nameplates in the survey--13 in all. Mazda, which was the top brand overall last year, falls to second place. Mazda’s above average overall performance was marred by the Mazda3 small car, which has average predicted reliability due to problems with its climate system and in-car electronics issues. Mazda has a conservative design approach with shared platforms and similar components, which helps it to produce reliable vehicles overall. Mazda has also stuck with its dependable six-speed automatic transmission while other automakers use more complex ones with eight or nine ratios or continuously variable transmissions, some of which have proven troublesome. All Lexus models score average or better for reliability in CR’s report. The Lexus GX SUV is the most reliable new vehicle overall this year; owners reported no problems for the three model years that CR analyzed in the brand rankings. The UX is Lexus' only average model. Third-ranking Toyota has only one model scoring below average, the Corolla Hatchback; CR’s members reported issues that required a transmission replacement or rebuild. The RAV4 remains average mostly because of problems filling the fuel tank on some versions. The Tacoma and the redesigned-for-2021 Sienna are both also average; the Sienna showed some power equipment problems. Both the RAV4 Prime and Venza, new for 2021, are well above average. Infiniti ranks fourth overall, an admirable improvement of six spots this year. The Q50 sedan remains impressive and the troublesome QX50 SUV improved to average. Buick is the most reliable domestic brand, coming in at fifth place overall. The Encore and redesigned Envision are both well-above average, and the Encore GX is above average. Surprisingly, the Enclave drops to below average, with transmission, drive system, and blank in-car electronics screen issues. High Rankings for Several Domestic Models Mark Signs of Improvement for U.S. Manufacturers Models from five domestic brands, Buick, Chevrolet, GMC, Chrysler, and Ford, take the top spots in seven categories--an unusually strong showing. They include: Buick Envision (Luxury Compact SUVs) Chevrolet Trailblazer (Subcompact SUVs) Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD and its twin the GMC Sierra 2500HD (Full-sized Pickups) Chrysler 300 (Midsized/Large Cars) Ford Bronco Sport (Compact SUVs) Ford Mustang Mach-E (Electric SUVs) Ford Ranger (Midsized Pickups) CR’s data also shows that hybrids and plug-in vehicles are among the most reliable models even though they have unusually complicated drivetrains. These vehicles include the Honda Insight, Kia Niro and the Toyota Prius, Prius Prime, RAV4 Prime, and Venza. One likely reason for their reliability is that most of these are well-established models that haven’t seen radical changes over the years. Even the new-for-2021 Venza uses a tried-and-true powertrain. The analysis also shows that fully-electric SUVs are among the least reliable vehicles. They include the Tesla Model X and Y, Audi E-Tron and Volkswagen ID.4. All have a high rate of problems in areas other than the electric powertrain. Some of these problems include climate controls, in-car electronics, and power equipment. Honda Ranks Sixth in Brand Rankings Honda ranks sixth among brands, down one from last year, with the Insight scoring well-above average. The CR-V, Accord, and Ridgeline score above average and the remaining models are all average. Both the Passport and Odyssey have improved, though owners still report issues with the infotainment system freezing and power equipment. Some Odyssey owners also report problems with the sliding doors. Subaru comes in seventh overall. The Crosstrek is well-above average, and the Legacy, Impreza, and Forester are above average. However, the Ascent still has subpar reliability. Acura's rank is eighth overall. The TLX has exhibited impressive reliability in its first year after a redesign, and the redesigned 2022 MDX has above average first-year reliability after below-average reliability with its previous generation. The RDX improves from below average to average, though it still has ongoing issues with brakes, power equipment, and in-car electronics with the display screen freezing and needing hardware replacement, and software updates failing. Nissan improves this year, moving up to ninth place--mostly because of older models including the Rogue Sport, Murano, and Leaf, which show impressive reliability. Mini rounds out the top 10, making it the highest-ranked European automaker this year. Mini only has two models in the survey, the Cooper Countryman and Cooper/Clubman, and jumps 13 places in the standing. The jump is mainly attributed to its Cooper Countryman's outstanding reliability. Hyundai falls four positions this year to rank eleventh. The redesigned Tucson is well-above average, and the Sonata and Palisade are also above average. The Kona Electric and freshened Santa Fe are below average, with, respectively, battery pack and electric drive motor problems, and transmission and power equipment issues. Kia drops three to 19th place this year, with transmissions being the brand's weak spot. The eight-speed dual clutch transmission that is used with the turbo engine in the redesigned Sorento is problematic. Owners of the Soul, Seltos, and Forte report a problem-prone CVT that could require replacement. The Niro Electric improved and the Telluride remains outstanding. Genesis’ reliability is suffering as the brand rapidly grows with new models. While the G70 has improved to average, the new GV80 SUV scores well-below average due to infotainment screen and drive system problems. Four Domestic Brands are Midpack Domestic brands are midpack or below--Chrysler at 12th, Chevrolet at 14, Cadillac at 16th, and Ford at 18th. Jeep, Tesla, and Lincoln took the three bottom ranks. Chrysler has just two vehicles in the survey--the 300, which has outstanding reliability, and the Pacifica minivan, which is well-below average due to issues including the transmission and sliding doors. Chevrolet models spread across almost the entire range of CR’s reliability scale--some excellent and some subpar. The new Trailblazer SUV and the Trax are both excellent. After years of respectable reliability, the Bolt EV dropped to below average, due to battery problems and electric drive failures, among other issues. The Silverado 2500HD and Blazer are above average. Others, including the Corvette and redesigned Tahoe, are well-below average. GMC's rank dropped because of similar problems as twin models from Chevrolet. The Sierra 1500, Yukon, and Canyon are all below- or well-below average. GMC’s only above-average vehicle was the Sierra 2500HD. Cadillac improved six spots this year, helped by the reliable XT5 SUV. The XT6 and XT4 are below- and well-below average, respectively. Ford is showing improvement this year, with the new Bronco Sport, Mustang Mach-E, and Ranger all at the top of their classes for reliability. But the redesigned F-150 scored below average, as did the Escape. Both the Mustang and the Explorer are well-below average. Ram drops the most in CR’s brand ranking this year, sliding twelve spots to 21st. While the Ram 2500 and 1500 are both average, the 1500 Classic (the previous generation 1500) has well-below average reliability marked by problems with brakes, emissions systems, engine, and power equipment. Jeep ranks 26 and among the bottom three brands. The company’s most reliable model last year, the Gladiator, fell below average. The Cherokee and Wrangler are both below average. The Wrangler has issues with the drive system, in-car electronics, and, like the similar Gladiator, with the steering and suspension. The Cherokee has in-car electronics and some transmission issues. Tesla, with four models in the survey, is unchanged at second from last. While Tesla’s Model 3 has average reliability, the Model Y still has body hardware issues with the tailgate and door alignment, paint defects, and multiple other problems. The Model X and Model S both have body hardware, climate system, and in-car electronics problems. All Lincoln models have below-average reliability, with the Corsair and Aviator being well-below average. They, along with the Nautilus, have transmission, in-car electronics and power equipment problems. Mixed Bag for European Models Porsche ranks midpack at 13, down two from last year. The Cayenne and Macan have average and above-average reliability. Audi is unchanged at 15th. The A4 and A5 remain above average, and are joined by the A6 and Q5. The Q7 is average, but the Q3 has below-average reliability. The Q8 and E-Tron, both well-below average, continue to have drive system and power equipment issues. BMW is in 17th, down four. The X5, 3 Series, 5 Series, and X3 all have average reliability, but the redesigned 4 Series has subpar reliability due to power equipment problems. Volvo is 20th overall, down one. The XC90 continues to score well-below average, mostly due to issues with brakes, climate system, and body hardware. The S60 dropped to below average this year also because of multiple issues. The XC40 is average and the XC60 is now above average. Mercedes-Benz is in 23rd, down two from last year. The only reliable model is the GLC. The E-Class fell to below average and the GLE remains well-below average, with numerous power equipment, climate system, in-car electronics, and some engine problems. Volkswagen is at 24th overall, up 1 from last year. While the Atlas and Jetta improved to average reliability, the Tiguan and the new ID.4 EV are both subpar. For more information on CR’s 2021 #CRCarReliability findings, visit CR.org/reliability or follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @consumereports. About Consumer Reports Annual Auto Reliability Surveys The latest Consumer Reports Annual Auto Reliability Surveys, gathered information from the organization's members on more than 300,000 vehicles from model years 2000 to 2021. Members filled out online surveys in the spring and summer of 2021. CR’s reliability predictions are based on overall reliability for the past three model years, provided the vehicle has not been redesigned. One or two years of data will be used if the model was redesigned in 2021 or 2020. CR bases its reliability analysis on data gathered from CR members each year about problems they had with their vehicles in the past 12 months. CR’s team of statisticians and survey researchers, then analyzed trouble areas and created an overall reliability score for each model and year. Serious problem areas that can lead to expensive repairs are more heavily weighted. More information can be found at www.CR.org.

My wife drives a Sep 2016 F55 Mini One 1.2. 1st owner until now. For wear and tear, changed tyres once, engine mountings once, wiper once, brake pads once. Caveat: her mileage is very very very low for a 7.5 year old car. No major issues with the car other than water leak into passenger footwell in the first month she got the car, which was fixed up and didn’t reoccur. As with Conti electronics, sometimes will have warnings but they go away after a restart. its a very fun car to drive. Very stable around bends. I find that it corners better than my car which has adaptive dampers and 50:50 weight distribution. but The One is mostly driven by gers. Guys mostly drive Cooper S. So sometimes when I drive it, at the lights, I see drivers will look at me and then have the disappointed face that I’m not a chiobu 🤷‍♂️

But cooper S cost so much more

Sometime is not just about atas... the drive is different. A conti still drive like a conti. Japanese and Korea cannot come close. Drove my friend Country Man 2.0 Cooper S. The drive is so nice overall. On paper it look lower power than my XT, but the real drive is different.

F Series is using the B48? And which year model onwards to keep a lookout for a Cooper S Countryman?

Owned an N series 1.6 supercharged one F series 2.0 cooper S tune one F series 2.0 JCW So far verdict is keep away from the N series. F series can buy but be prepared for higher wear and tear in your engine bay (due to compact engine bay and relatively higher performance), eats engine mount, brake pads and tires for breakfast lunch and dinner. fun factor? nothing in the price range can beat a mini. YOLO.

My other mini also same engine block, but lower cooper s tune (think also different internals and cooling) don't get this engine oil top up problem. Both cars no engine oil leakage.

Source: https://www.motor1.com/news/678756/new-mini-cooper-audio-visual-technology/ Mini has already unveiled almost everything about the next-generation Cooper but the full debut isn’t coming until later this year. Today, the British manufacturer shares more details and photos of the hatchback’s cabin where new gimmicks will be implemented on both the audio and visual aspects of the technology. Mini seems to be especially proud of the circular OLED display that sits in the middle of the dashboard and has a diameter of 9.44 inches (240 millimeters). It says this is the industry’s first display of this size to feature OLED technology and more importantly, it will make its debut on the next-generation Mini models using the Mini Operating System 9. This is the latest version of BMW Group’s infotainment software based on an Android Open Source Project (AOSP) software stack. The new round display is also home to Mini’s new cloud-based navigation system, which provides charging-optimized route planning for the electric versions of the new Mini Cooper. Three-dimensional maps and an AI view are some of the new features the navigation system receives. The screen also provides access to the so-called Mini Experience Modes – Core, Green, and Go-Kart, each of which has its own specific interface design and additional light and sound effects. “Hey Mini” activates the company’s new intelligent voice assistant called Spike. It provides quick and easy control through voice commands of functions such as navigation, telephony, radio, and temperature. Optional 5G connectivity ensures the new interface can be quickly updated through over-the-air updates, which should happen several times a year. Last but not least, the high-speed connectivity provides access to the Mini Connected Store where different applications can be downloaded, including AirConsole games, video streaming apps, Spotify, and others. Speaking of the new Mini’s audio capability, the automaker promises “unmistakable sound” for the all-electric models. This includes new driving sounds in the cabin, a different sound from the outside, different jingles for the different Experience Modes, and 30 new sound signals with information and warning functions. “We are taking a massive leap into the digital world with the new Mini family and, in so doing, underscoring the charismatic heritage of the brand. The iconic central display in the new Mini family is round and will be filled with round content for the first time. I am convinced that the digital power of the new models will delight Mini customers around the world,” says Stefanie Wurst, head of the Mini brand. As a reminder, the new electric Mini will be available as the entry-level Cooper E with a front-mounted 181-horsepower electric motor and a 40.7-kilowatt-hour battery for an estimated 186-mile range in Europe's WLTP test cycle. Above it, the Cooper SE has a slightly more powerful 215-hp electric motor and a larger 54.2-kWh battery pack.

Finally a major change in design language for the new Mini. This new Mini Electric look quite refreshing and modernized imo. The images were taken at a facility in China and posted to Chinese social media. In the photos, the undisguised Mini is accompanied by several other camouflaged models parked nearby. It has no visible tailpipe and a limited amount of air intake on the front end, which suggests that this is an electric model. The pictured model is badged with Mini’s “S” badging, designating that this is a higher-performance model. The other camouflaged Minis nearby all have the typical hood scoop of Mini’s S models, but the uncamouflaged version does not. These scoops are used for air intake, but electric cars need less air intake than ICE cars do, so the scoop is somewhat superfluous for an EV. The current Mini Cooper SE electric does have a hood scoop, however. The biggest exterior change is the rear taillights, which change in shape and pattern compared to previous models. They’re also connected by a horizontal black stripe across the whole rear of the vehicle. Current Mini models have patterns reminiscent of the Union Jack, the British flag, imprinted in their taillights. In the photos, it looks like a similar pattern might still be there but is obscured by vertical black lines covering it and by the triangular shape of the taillights. On the interior, the dashboard is a significant departure from current Minis. This new Mini has a flat, bare dash, no driver display, and a floating circular center screen as the main focal point of the car’s infotainment system. The dash has significantly fewer buttons, knobs, and switches than current models, though there are physical controls on the steering wheel and a few (stereotypically-Mini) switches underneath the screen. This lack of physical controls suggests that the circular screen will be a touchscreen. The small screen in front of the driver is a heads-up display, which is likely carried over from the current Minis.

Yeah... Reminds me of the time I went to test drive the mini cooper EV and BYD Seal dual motor one after another with my wife.... After testing both and was discussing on whether to go ahead to change my wife's mini to one of them.... She commented something that hit the nail on the head: " I don't think you like both EV very much, at least not to the point of wanting them now... Because I don't see the glitter of excitement in your eyes when you talk about them like your other cars..."

This news will move many dog lovers to tears, and put many "topo king" to shame. No joke but during my NS days, my platoon mate actually get lost during topo at Gembas area (if my memory don't fail me), despite putting markers on some of the trees and plants along the way. Source: https://www.straitstimes.com/world/europe/dogged-determination-golden-retriever-walks-64km-for-27-days-for-one-last-look-at-old-home A golden retriever walked over 64km for 27 days – through forests, fields and county roads – just to see once more the small village in Northern Ireland where his life began. Cooper, the dog, bolted out of the car of his new owner, who had just picked him up from a kennel in Dungannon, in County Tyrone, on April 1. He then set off on a long journey back to Tobermore in County Londonderry, 64km away, more than the entire length of Singapore from east to west. It was a miracle that he did not wander aimlessly across Northern Ireland, but was instead guided by his cold, dark, damp nose to somewhere that felt familiar and where he was eventually rescued on April 27. Mr Nigel Fleming, a photographer, adopted Cooper from a dog pound in Dungannon so his own golden retriever, Molly, would have a companion. “I was just about to get the dogs out of the car on their leads for their first walk together when Cooper bolted. He literally jumped over Molly, prised the car door open enough to get past me and ran for it,” he recalled. “It was a disaster,” he said. “The poor boy had no idea where he was, and he was in the wind. I tried to chase after him, but he was gone in an instant. So then, the search was on.” Cooper probably moved mostly at night to evade organised searches, and scavenged for food and water to survive, according to a search-and-rescue team at Facebook group Lost Paws NI. He avoided traffic and human contact, and darted into secret safety holes to bed down. He was even able to sneak past sheep farmers watching over newborn lambs at the height of their busiest season, as he flanked farmlands around County Tyrone. There were sightings of Cooper in the towns of Magherafelt and Cookstown. Ms Laurent Hughes, from Magherafelt, said in a Facebook post she saw Cooper running on a road. “Tried to stop it twice, but it was very scared and kept running. By the time we got turned around again, it had disappeared. We continued to search for a further 20 minutes, but couldn’t find it,” she said. Lost Paws NI also received a tip that Cooper had been spotted in Lisnanane Lane in Cookstown making his way through fields. Finally, on April 27, someone called the pet rescue group’s hotline to report that he had spotted Cooper running towards his old neighbourhood. Lost Paws NI then received a photo that showed Cooper dishevelled but still alive, and quickly came to pick him up. A spokesman for the group said: “Cooper is a clever boy. Instinct took him back to a place he was familiar with. How he did it, I’ll never know, but he managed it. No food, no shelter, no help, just dogged determination and that incredible nose.” “It seems incredible that he was able to do this,” she said, “but dogs are incredible.” Cooper was eventually reunited with Mr Fleming, and the golden retriever with the golden nose has since decided to stay put. “I’m sitting here looking at him and I cannot believe he’s home,” said Mr Fleming. “In the end, all we had to do was follow a dog’s nose home to familiar surroundings,” he said. “If only we’d known, we could have saved big Cooper all that anxiety.”

Mini Cooper S 3 dr👍🏻

Ukraine's HIMARS and M270 will Fire Twice as Far with New GLSDB Precision Bombs Delivered This Winter First Ground-Launched Small Diameter Bombs (GLSDB) will be delivered to Ukraine this winter, Global Defense reports, citing an official at Boeing: "We're on track to deliver in accordance with the government time line," said Jim Jeary, Senior Director for Business Development, Space, Intelligence, & Weapon Systems at Boeing, as quoted. The mentioned timeline might have been drawn by Pentagon's Deputy Assistant Secretary Laura Cooper previously this summer: "The earliest is this fall," she assessed during a hearing at the U.S. Congress. Initially, the provision of GLSDBs to Ukraine was announced in early February 2023, the bombs were sponsored under the USAI program which meant they had to be produced first, instead of going straight from the Pentagon's storage. The delay was connected to the need to crank up the production. As a reminder, GLSDB is a weapon designed jointly by Boeing and Saab. They combined the M26 rocket engine with the GBU-38 bomb, turning it into a precision-guided ground-launched tactical missile. These bombs can be deployed by HIMARS, M270 self-propelled launchers, and their variants, known as the MARS II in Germany or the LRU in France – all of the mentioned are currently in service with the Armed Forces of Ukraine. At the moment, these rocket systems only have one type of missile to use: the GMLRS with an attack range of 70+ km. On the other hand, the GLSDB can travel as far as 150 km, practically double the digit. This will not only make HIMARS/M270 twice as deadly but also improve their safety, since there will be fewer times they have to approach the very frontline for strikes on important targets. Worth noting, while the GLSDB debate has been in full swing in the US, Ukraine got Storm Shadow/SCALP missiles from the United Kingdom and France. Speaking at Congress, even Laura Cooper mentioned them as having a larger range and showing good results. With a range of over 250 km, Storm Shadows have indeed proved themselves in the attacks on Crimea, most notably when they destroyed the russian Rostov-Na-Donu submarine and reportedly were used to strike the Black Sea Fleet HQ this September. However, they cannot replace the 150-mk GLSDB or 300-km ATACMS, primarily, because the russians have anti-aircraft systems able to counter Storm Shadow cruise missiles. In contrast, ballistic trajectory makes GLSDB impossible to intercept by air defense systems without anti-missile capability. And russians are very short on these.

E63 SE Performance vs R56 Cooper S 🤦🏻‍♀️

Still better than your Mini Cooper correct.?

I rem this mileage as normal. Check outside workshop. Mini Cooper S Rear Pad + Sensor => $160

2020 Mini Countryman The biggest and most versatile member of the MINI model family generates fresh stimuli for driving pleasure and individual flair in the hallmark style of the British premium brand. Precisely refined design, attractive additions to the equipment range and innovative technology in the areas of operation and networking underpin the exceptional status of the new MINI Countryman within the premium compact segment. Its robust vehicle concept, an ample, versatile interior with five fully-fledged seats and the optional ALL4 all-wheel drive system make it an unmistakable all-round talent that inspires typical MINI enthusiasm not just in day-to-day traffic but also on long-distance trips and even when venturing into unsurfaced terrain. The progressive character of the new MINI Countryman is reflected in a model variant with plug-in hybrid drive as well as in new digital MINI Connected services. What is more, the desire for individualisation is catered to more radically than ever before with the range of additional optional extras and Original MINI Accessories. With the new MINI Countryman, the tradition-steeped British brand continues to pursue its conquest of additional target groups. Even in its first generation, the MINI Countryman was a pioneer. As the first model with an exterior length of more than four metres, four doors, a large tailgate, five seats and all-wheel drive, it laid the foundations for the brand's highly successful advance into the premium compact segment. The MINI Countryman now accounts for almost 30 per cent of the brand's new registrations worldwide. The launch of the current model generation once again sees a significant optimisation in terms of space, versatility, functionality and ride comfort. In addition, the MINI Countryman has become a pioneering force for locally emissions-free mobility in hallmark brand style. The plug-in hybrid model MINI Cooper SE Countryman ALL4 combines groundbreaking efficiency and hybrid-specific all-wheel drive with the option of purely electrically powered driving pleasure. In addition to plug-in hybrid drive, the new MINI Countryman is available with three petrol engines and three diesel engines featuring the latest MINI TwinPower Turbo Technology. The engines have seen extensive further development and cover an output spectrum ranging from 75 kW/102 hp to 140 kW/190 hp as well as already meeting the emissions standard Euro 6d, which will not be binding until 2021. Four of them can be combined with the all-wheel drive system ALL4 on request. Distinctive proportions, powerful charisma Thanks to its unmistakable proportions, the new MINI Countryman is instantly recognisable as the brand's largest model. The three-part structure of the vehicle body that is typical of MINI is interpreted in a particularly striking way by the model-specific roof line. The car's upright stature and increased ground clearance are suggestive of generous interior space, robust character and inspiring driving characteristics - both on-road and off-road. The optional MINI ALL4 exterior look and the roof rails - also available as an optional extra - further underline the versatility of the new MINI Countryman. Meanwhile the aerodynamically optimised exterior features contained in the optional John Cooper Works package add an extra touch of sporty flair. The precisely modified design of the car's front section lends even more intense emphasis to the powerful charisma of the new MINI Countryman. The new structure of the bumper covering, now entirely in body finish, ensures a particularly clear-cut and high-quality appearance. The redesigned radiator grille has the hexagonal contours that are typical of MINI and is surrounded by a slim, one-piece chrome frame. Its air intake is subdivided by three horizontal struts in the MINI One Countryman, MINI Cooper Countryman, MINI One D Countryman and MINI Cooper D Countryman. The radiator grille of the new MINI Cooper S Countryman and the new MINI Cooper SD Countryman is characterised by a hexagonal grid pattern with a red "S" and a single chrome strut. Bright spot: LED headlamps now standard The redesign of the front section adds LED headlamps to the standard trim in the new MINI Countryman: here, the latest version of these lights features a particularly high-quality design that emphasises the technology used. The distinctive, slightly asymmetrically rounded contours of the headlamps are accentuated by a continuous band of light that takes on the function of both daytime driving light and turn indicator. The turning light included in the functional range of the LED headlamps provides intensive illumination of the side areas of the road when changing direction. The standard trim of the new MINI Countryman also includes LED fog lights, with a light band in the upper semicircle of each fog light serving as a parking light. Adaptive LED headlamps with variable light distribution and matrix function for high beam are available as a newly added option. In addition to the turning light, they also provide bend lighting, automatically adapting their effect to the traffic situation and weather conditions. In urban traffic and when visibility is limited due to the weather conditions, the side area of the road is illuminated more intensely by adding the dimmed turning light. When driving on motorways it is possible to selectively increase the range of the high beam. What is more, the adaptive LED headlamps in the new MINI Countryman now feature an automatic selective dip function for the high beam. For this purpose, the high beam is subdivided into four segments that can be activated and deactivated independently of each other and adapted to the situation on the road at speeds of over 70 km/h. As soon as the front camera of the new MINI Countryman detects an oncoming vehicle or a vehicle driving ahead, the space that vehicle occupies is only illuminated at low beam brightness, while the other high beam segments continue to illuminate the rest of the road in the normal way. As such, the matrix high beam is able to increase the range of vision while at the same time avoiding any dazzle effect on other road users. Redesigned rear apron and LED lights in Union Jack design With its redesigned bumper trim, the rear apron also contributes to the particularly powerful and contemporary look of the new MINI Countryman. The upright rear lights with chrome frame provide an exclusive, unmistakable accentuation that evokes the origins of the British brand. All lighting functions now feature high-quality LED technology as standard, while the graphic structure of the light source traces the pattern of the Union Jack. With its striking lines, the flag motif provides a distinctive form of identification - both during the day and in terms of night design. Striking look: two new body finishes, Piano Black Exterior and new alloy wheels The range of body finishes opens up new possibilities for an individual look, including the newly added colours White Silver metallic and Sage Green metallic. Depending on the model variant, the roof and mirror caps of the new MINI Countryman can be finished in black, white or silver as an alternative to the body colour. The Piano Black Exterior option - likewise new and available for all variants of the new MINI Countryman - ensures a particularly striking appearance: here, the headlamp surrounds, rear lights, radiator grille and side indicator elements - or side scuttles - are finished in high-gloss black instead of chrome, as are the door handles and the model lettering on the luggage compartment lid. Additional identification features in high-gloss black are available from the range of Original MINI Accessories, including the MINI logo and the "Cooper S" and "ALL4" inscriptions in Piano Black design. Matching exterior mirror caps and side scuttles with a grey-black flag pattern in Night Jack design are also available for retrofit. Depending on the model variant, the new MINI Countryman is fitted as standard with light alloy wheels which are either 16-inch or 17-inch in size, with light alloy wheels in sizes up to 19 inches available as optional extras and as part of the Original MINI Accessories programme. 17-inch light alloy wheels in Channel Spoke Black design are new to the range of ex works options, as are 19-inch light alloy wheels in the design variant Turnstile Spoke 2-tone. Interior: ample space and even greater scope for individual style The new MINI Countryman combines versatile driving characteristics with a versatile interior. Three fully-fledged seats are available at the rear. Alternatively, the second row of seats can also be used to expand transport capacity. By folding down the rear seat with a 40 : 20 : 40 split, storage space can be extended from 450 to up to 1 390 litres. Selective customisation of the interior oriented towards the customer's personal style has become even more attractive due to the addition of new options and a further developed product range. The leather variants Chester Indigo Blue and Chester Malt Brown have been newly added to the selection of seat upholstery options. The Colour Line for the lower section of the instrument panel and door trim, previously available as a single option, is now an integral part of the leather trim designed to match the relevant colour scheme. The MINI Cooper S Countryman, MINI Cooper SD Countryman and MINI Cooper SE Countryman ALL4 models now come as standard with Piano Black interior surfaces for the cockpit and door bezels. These are combined with accentuation strips in the variant British Oak dark. A new version of the highly exclusive MINI Yours interior surfaces is optionally available for all model variants. The optional MINI Yours Interior Style Shaded Silver conveys stylish sporty flair. This is ensured by combining an illuminated cockpit bezel in the variant Shaded Silver with door bezels in Dark Silver and accentuation strips in Hazy Grey. Engines with optimised MINI TwinPower Turbo Technology and emission control to meet the Euro 6d emission standard An extensively further developed engine portfolio enables the new MINI Countryman to achieve an even more favourable balance between driving fun and fuel consumption. In addition to further optimisation of CO2 levels, other aspects of the emissions performance have been likewise consistently improved by means of the relevant measures - including particulate filters for petrol engines and SCR with AdBlue injection for diesel engines. This means that all model variants of the new MINI Countryman now meet the particularly rigorous Euro 6d emission standard. MINI TwinPower Turbo Technology is used in the 3-cylinder petrol engines of the new MINI One Countryman and the new MINI Cooper Countryman and in the 4-cylinder petrol engine of the new MINI Cooper S Countryman and now includes an exhaust manifold integrated in the cylinder head along with turbo charging. Among other things, this ensures highly effective cooling of the exhaust gases and the turbocharging system. At the same time, crankcase cooling can be reduced when demand is low in the partial load range by means of a new split cooling valve. In addition, petrol engine direct injection operates at a maximum pressure that has been increased from 200 to 350 bar. Like the petrol engines, the diesel engines also have a new starter generator with optimised efficiency. In the 3-cylinder engines of the new MINI One D Countryman and the 4-cylinder engines of the new MINI Cooper D Countryman and the new MINI Cooper SD Countryman, MINI TwinPower Turbo Technology consists of a turbocharging system featuring exhaust gas recirculation and common rail direct injection. The two-stage turbocharging system previously used exclusively in the most powerful diesel engine now also optimises the response of the 4-cylinder engine in the MINI Cooper D Countryman, with the injectors feeding fuel to the combustion chambers at a pressure of up to 2 500 bar. ALL4 as an option for four engine variants - and a standard feature of the plug-in hybrid model The ALL4 all-wheel drive system provides a noticeable boost in terms of traction, driving stability and agility. As an alternative to the brand's hallmark front-wheel power transmission, this system is optionally available for four model variants of the new MINI Countryman. With its fast and precise electronic control, the system ensures need-based distribution of power between the front and rear wheels in all road surface and weather conditions. The new MINI Cooper SE Countryman ALL4 is fitted with a hybrid-specific all-wheel drive system as standard. It is provided by the precisely controlled interaction between a 3-cylinder petrol engine transmitting its power to the front wheels with an electric synchronous motor that acts on the rear wheels. Together, the two power units produce a system output of 162 kW/220 hp. The latest eDrive technology available for BMW Group plug-in hybrid models also includes a high-voltage lithium-ion battery with a gross energy content of 9.6 kWh, giving the new MINI Cooper SE Countryman ALL4 a maximum electrically powered range of 55 to 61 kilometres. 8-speed Steptronic transmission as standard for two more model variants The new MINI Cooper SE Countryman ALL4 comes with a 6-speed Steptronic transmission as standard. Meanwhile the MINI Cooper Countryman ALL4 and the MINI Cooper D Countryman ALL4 now feature an 8-speed Steptronic transmission as standard, as do the MINI Cooper S Countryman ALL4, MINI Cooper SD Countryman and MINI Cooper SD Countryman ALL4 models. It is also optionally available for the MINI Cooper D Countryman. For all other model variants, a 7-speed Steptronic transmission with double clutch is optionally available to replace the standard 6-speed manual transmission. As a further option, the most powerful petrol and diesel engines can also transmit their drive torque to a 7-speed Steptronic sports transmission with double clutch or an 8-speed Steptronic sports transmission. This enables particularly rapid speed changes and increased shifting dynamics. New equipment features: sports leather steering wheel, digital cockpit The interior of the new MINI Countryman also has increased appeal due to an extended range of standard equipment. It now includes a sports leather steering wheel in all model variants. In the new MINI Countryman, the front passenger can also adapt seat height as required. Electrically adjustable seats are available as an option, including a memory function on the driver's side. An optional digital instrument display is available for the new MINI Countryman. The display in Black Panel design behind the steering wheel has a diameter of 5.0 inches. The range of audio and navigation systems has been restructured. The Connected Media and Connected Navigation Plus options, available as an alternative to the basic configuration, each include an 8.8-inch colour screen with touchscreen function located in the central instrument that is typical of the brand. The circular control unit in the new MINI Countryman exhibits a refined surface look, with the audio control panel and the buttons for hazard lights and driver assistance systems now integrated even more harmoniously. Meanwhile touch-sensitive bookmark buttons and high-gloss Piano Black surfaces underscore the premium character of the central instrument. Even the standard audio system offers audio streaming via a Bluetooth connection and a hands-free telephone system with USB interface. The Radio MINI Visual Boost and the digital instrument display form part of the optional equipment item Connected Media, while the Connected Navigation option makes a range of additional infotainment functions available in the new MINI Countryman in addition to providing a convenient route guidance system. This option also comprises wireless charging for compatible mobile phones and a second USB socket. The new MINI Countryman: always online and up-to-date thanks to intelligent networking The new MINI Countryman is equipped with a SIM card that is permanently fitted in the car. This enables use of Intelligent Emergency Call with automatic detection of vehicle location and accident severity, as well as MINI TeleServices. The Connected Media option includes a wide range of MINI Connected digital services. The new MINI Countryman is always online, enabling seamless integration of the voice assistant Amazon Alexa. This provides access to the Real Time Traffic Information service as well as the internet platform MINI Online and preparation for Apple CarPlay. MINI Connected can be used to send navigation destinations from the smartphone to the vehicle. The mobile phone connection also means that the vehicle's navigation map is updated automatically. Individual style for retrofitting: MINI Original Accessories High-quality retrofit options from the programme of MINI Original Accessories enable functionality, convenience, driving fun and individual style to be adapted even more precisely to personal preferences in the new MINI Countryman. The selection ranges from a rear bicycle rack, a roof box, a moulded luggage compartment mat and all-weather floor mats to individual MINI LED door projectors from the MINI Yours Customised programme and John Cooper Works products designed for extreme driving fun.

http://www.tremeritus.com/2014/03/09/josephine-teo-gic-temasek-wont-take-more-risks/ Josephine Teo: GIC, Temasek won’t take more risks March 9th, 2014 | Author: Editorial Josephine Teo In Parliament on Friday (7 Mar), Senior Minister of State for Finance Josephine Teo said that any rise in Singapore’s spending needs over time should not drive GIC and Temasek to take on more risks. The solution lies in the government’s budgetary measures, rather than a change in these entities’ investment strategies, she told the House. Under the current Net Investment Returns (NIR) framework, the government can tap up to 50% of the long-term expected real return from the net assets managed by GIC and the MAS for its budgetary spending, GIC and Temasek “must continue to invest with the aim of achieving good, risk-adjusted returns over the long term”, which they have achieved so far, she said. Ms Teo was responding to Ang Mo Kio GRC MP Inderjit Singh, who was concerned that the government may be spending too much from its investment returns. Even so, some of GIC and Temasek’s investment losses in recent years appear to suggest that both entities may have been taking a lot more risk than Ms Teo is willing to admit. GIC In late 2007, GIC invested a massive 11 billion Swiss francs (then S$14 billion) – GIC’s largest investment ever – for a major stake in UBS [Link]. According to Reuters, GIC’s investment in UBS was later converted to UBS shares at 47.7 Swiss francs, making GIC the largest shareholder of UBS at 6.6% of equity [Link]. Based on Friday’s (7 Mar) closing price for UBS shares of 18.63 Swiss francs, GIC has lost some 61% or S$8.5 billion. UBS share price in Swiss francs (CHF): In its defence, GIC says on its website [Link]: For UBS, as we said in late 2008, our timing could have been better and the investment is still finding its footing. GIC’s view of UBS’ fundamental strength as a well-capitalised bank with a strong private wealth management franchise remains unchanged. GIC manages risk by investing in a well-diversified portfolio, with a balanced distribution of asset classes and their underlying business sectors and geographies. This, too, is why GIC’s performance has to be measured on the basis of its overall portfolio rather than by how much it makes or loses on individual investments. In 2006, at the height of the US real estate bubble, GIC made a US$675 million investment – comprising US$100 million in equity and US$575 million in loans – in the Stuyvesant Town/Peter Cooper Village complex in Manhatten, New York. The management of the complex, Tishman Speyer Properties and BlackRock Realty, defaulted on their loan in 2010. GIC then booked a loss on the US$675 million investment, as reported by Reuters [Link]. Reuters said, “GIC did not disclose its exposure or say how much it wrote off, although court documents indicate the Singapore fund held $100 million of equity and $575 million in mezzanine debt issued by the owner of the Stuyvesant Town/Peter Cooper Village complex in Manhatten.” Temasek Holdings What about Temasek? Let us see how Temasek made some of its investments. In May 2007, Temasek bought 55 million shares of ABC Learning at A$7.30 a share for a 12% stake. The investment cost Temasek A$402 million. As the share price fell in early 2008, it bought more shares and increased its stake to 14.7%, making it the second largest shareholder in ABC Learning [Link]. Then a series of events happened: An unexpected drop of 42 per cent in profit in the second half of 2007 to $37.1 million and its inability to service its $1.8 billion debt triggered a decline in the company’s share price. Several directors of the company were forced to dump millions of shares after receiving margin calls in February 2008 [Link]. In August 2008, shares of ABC Learning were halted from trade when the company failed to release its latest earnings [Link]. In November 2008, the company went into receivership. An estimated A$850 million was owed to its banks. Shareholders would not receive anything, the Sydney Morning Herald reported [Link]. By April 2009, it was announced that some of the ABC Learning centres were sold to charity, Mission Australia, for $1 each [Link]. Mission Australia spokesman Paul Andrews told the Australian media, “We got a really fantastic deal.” In less than 1.5 years from the day Temasek invested in ABC Learning, it was game-over for Temasek. In May 2009, Financial Times (FT) reported [Link] that Temasek had pulled out of its investment in Bank of America, selling its 3.8 per cent stake in the US group. Temasek is estimated to have lost at least US$2 billion on an investment foray that began with it taking a stake in Merrill Lynch in December 2007 for US$5 billion. The Merrill Lynch shares were later converted to Bank of America shares after Merrill Lynch merged with Bank of America. Temasek did not disclose when it disposed of the Bank of America stake or at what price, FT said. Are GIC and Temasek already taking a lot more risk than Josephine Teo has assured the House? What do you think?

On 3 September 2008, Cooper was appointed as a youth coach at Liverpool, initially taking charge of the under-12s. On 18 July 2011, he was named manager of Liverpool's academy. Cooper coached the under-18s for the 2012–13 season, leading them to the semi-finals of the FA Youth Cup, where they lost to Chelsea. While at Liverpool, Cooper oversaw the development of such players as Raheem Sterling, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Ben Woodburn.