The front axle is based on the McPherson spring strut principle, interaction of axle geometry and the output drive shafts of equal-length both left and right ensuring optimum traction without any adverse effects from the drivetrain. 

The central-arm rear axle featured on the new MINI is quite unique in the segment of front-wheel-drive compact cars. Through their sophisticated kinematics alone, the wheels maintain optimum grip on the ground and guarantee agile handling and driving pleasure in all situations, regardless of road conditions and driving manoeuvres. Appropriate weight reduction including longitudinal arms made of aluminium serves furthermore to reduce weight on the rear axle by approximately 9 kg or 20 lb.



Free choice of two different suspension set-ups

The new generation of the MINI is available with a choice of two different suspension set-ups offering the customer either a truly sporting experience in the MINI or a more comfort-oriented style of motoring. In its basic set-up, the new MINI Cooper is more comfort-oriented than its predecessor, while the suspension of the MINI Cooper S is far more sporting and dynamic, reflecting the car's superior performance.

Both models are available as an option with sports suspension comprising even firmer springs, dampers, and anti-roll bars.

The front axle comes with inner-vented disc brakes measuring 280 millimetres/11.02'' in diameter (294 millimetres/11.57'' on the MINI Cooper S). On the rear axle discs measuring 259 millimetres or 10.20'' apply brake power smoothly and efficiently.

On both models the brake system is supported by ABS anti-lock brakes, EBD Electronic Brake Force Distribution, and CBC Cornering Brake Control. Emergency situations when applying the brakes are detected, in turn, by the Brake Assistant in the new MINI building up maximum brake pressure as quickly as possible. A new feature, finally, is Hill Assist operating in conjunction with DSC and preventing the car from rolling back on an uphill gradient by closing the brakes briefly when the driver is about to set off.

The MINI Cooper comes as standard on 15-inch light-alloy wheels running on 175/65 R 15 low-profile tyres. The MINI Cooper S, in turn, features 16-inch light-alloy wheels and runs on 195/65 R 16 tyres. Seventeen-inch wheels running on 205/45 R 17 tyres are available as an option.

Benefiting from runflat technology, all 16- and 17-inch tyres offer superior safety in an emergency, allowing the driver to continue even after a complete flat for a distance of up to 150 kilometres or 90 miles at a speed of not more than 80 km/h or 50 mph, and thus reaching the nearest workshop safe and sound.

As yet a further feature, the new MINI is equipped with TDC tyre defect control recognising a gradual loss of air in good time and warning the driver appropriately by way of a visual signal in the cockpit display. The driver is therefore able to take action before the tyre itself is damaged or before things might become hazardous. 



Electronic systems optimising the car's driving behaviour

ASC+T Automatic Stability Control + Traction (which may be deactivated if required) and DSC Dynamic Stability Control ensure extra safety in critical situations in the new MINI. DSC counteracts any lack of stability possibly arising on slippery surfaces or with the car oversteering or understeering in a bend. Intervening in the brakes as required and acting on the engine control unit, DSC is able to stabilise the car in such a situation, the new MINI therefore offering maximum driving safety under all conditions on the road.

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