If the satellite navigation system is ordered, the speedometer is moved to the steering column next to the tachometer, while the satellite navigation screen is placed centrally on the dashboard. Also available is a Chrono Pack center gauge cluster. The optional gauge cluster is reminiscent of a multi-function chronograph and houses analog gauges for fuel level, oil pressure, oil temperature and coolant temperature. As with the navigation system option, the speedometer is moved to the steering column. 2006 MINI Cooper's steering column is height-adjustable and the standard, leather wrapped steering wheel sports a distinctive three-spoke design with integrated driver's airbag. An optional steering wheel with multi-function controls for audio and cruise control is also available.

2006 MINI Cooper's center console is flanked with a striking aluminum-finished down-tube design and houses the audio system, climate controls and switch gear for MINI's standard and optional features. The switches are a toggle design to echo the switchgear of the original Mini and are provided for the standard power windows, rear window de-froster and central locking system. Toggle switches for optional equipment include Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and front fog lights. The front fog light and rear window de-froster switches have illuminating diodes on the ends to show when they are switched on. The lower center console includes two cup holders, a cigarette lighter as well as binnacles for storage. An optional center arm rest with storage can also be ordered.

2006 MINI Cooper's door trim carries through the same bold design as the rest of the interior. The armrest and storage compartment in the door are stylishly framed in silver or anthracite and the surface of the armrest is covered with black leather standard.

The MINI Cooper front seats give excellent comfort and support, to help hold the driver and passenger in place during enthusiastic driving. Side airbags are integrated into the seat bolsters and the passenger seat incorporates a 'smart' airbag sensor to detect an occupant in the seat. This system helps to prevent unnecessary deployment of the airbag in the event the seat is unoccupied. Height adjustment and lumbar support are provided standard for the driver and passenger. Sports seats with supportive side bolsters and two-level heated seats are all available as options. The seats are also available in an impressive array of leather, leatherette or cloth upholsteries.

The bucket-style rear seats, indents in the back of the front seats and generous head room, allow taller passengers to sit comfortably in the rear. With the Classis Mini designer Alec Issigonis' concept in mind, 2006 MINI Cooper utilizes the maximum possible interior space for the minimum external size. The rear seat splits 50:50, and with both seat-backs folded increases the boot capacity from 5.6 cubic feet to a highly practical 25 cubic feet. The rear seats have release latches conveniently located in the boot and all handles are hidden from the outside - a small, but subtle security feature. The rear seats have been designed to accommodate the ISOFIX child seat system fitted with standardized latch points.

Attention has been given to interior illumination. Xenon lamps in the headliner along with lamps in the foot wells and the boot illuminate the cabin when a door is open. Lighted vanity mirrors also come standard. When the headlamps are switched on, amber low intensity LEDs illuminate the interior door handles and special pinpoint lights in the headliner cascade a soft amber light over the center console. Four reading lamps are also mounted in the headliner. As an additional safety feature, the interior lighting is activated via the remote central locking feature on the key fob. When the unlock button is pressed, the interior lights come on and remain on for up to 30 seconds. This provides added security when locating the car in the dark. Entry / exit lights in the underside of the doors illuminate the ground alongside the car for added visibility and safety.


2006 MINI Cooper Drivetrain
Responsive Power Underneath

The original Mini was the first car to have a transverse mounted front engine with an integrated transmission powering the front wheels. This created far more space in the front of the vehicle, and allowed the wheels to be pushed out to the car's four corners. Designer Alec Issigonis achieved his ambitious goal of building a small, space efficient family car with room for four adults and luggage within the smallest possible exterior dimensions. In so doing, he also gave the Mini its sports car-like handling.

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