MINI John Cooper Works Paceman Revs Up for Detroit Auto Show Debut

BEDFORD, N.H., Jan. 03, 2013 — During its decade in the United States, MINI has successfully grown its market share by expanding its lineup to six models and offering those vehicles in a variety of configurations. The brand's seventh model, the 2013 MINI Paceman, will go on sale in March, and like its brethren, it will feature a high-performance John Cooper Works trim, which will debut at the Detroit Auto Show this month.

Designed as a sportier two-door version of the surprisingly spacious MINI Countryman, the 2013 MINI Paceman crossover coupe is further differentiated by a more steeply sloping roofline, an integrated spoiler and a lower stance. Meanwhile, the MINI John Cooper Works Paceman enhances the driving experience with a 208-horsepower turbocharged engine and precisely tuned chassis technology. Like the MINI John Cooper Works Countryman, the top trim of the Paceman will also come standard with ALL4 all-wheel drive, making it a winter-ready ride.

"The new Paceman and its John Cooper Works trim are perfect for buyers that primarily want a sporty ride, but still would like to be able to carry some gear up to the White Mountains on weekends," said Marshal Cabot, general manager of MINI of Bedford, a New Hampshire MINI dealer. "The advanced all-wheel drive not only makes snowy road trips a nonissue, but it makes the handling more responsive even when the roads are dry."

While the new John Cooper Works Paceman will churn out more than enough acceleration for the average enthusiast, MINI will also be showing its fastest production model ever in Detroit. Dubbed the MINI John Cooper Works GP, the limited-edition model can jet from zero to 60 mph in just 5.9 seconds and reach a top speed of 150 mph, thanks to its 211-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine and six-speed manual transmission.

Beyond the engine bay, the John Cooper Works GP receives special features that help it harness its extra power, including a sports braking system, sports tires, custom light-alloy wheels and MINI's first-ever use of an adjustable coilover suspension. Only 2,000 units of the speedy MINI will be produced worldwide, with 500 slated for the U.S. market when it goes on sale early this year.

"At its core, the MINI lineup is designed for driving enthusiasts, and the John Cooper Works GP is the ultimate way for customers to experience the brand's signature handling and acceleration," added Cabot. "However, whether you're looking for a pulse-racing ride or a capable crossover, MINI has increased its offerings in recent years to fulfill the needs of a wide range of buyers."

About MINI of Bedford:
MINI of Bedford is the first and only MINI dealership in New Hampshire, and their team is excited to be bringing motoring fun to Granite State drivers. Shoppers who visit MINI of Bedford online at www.minibedford.com, or in person at 209 S. River Road in Bedford, NH, will find a huge selection of new and used MINI models. Plus, the arrival of MINI to New Hampshire means that convenient MINI service is just around the corner. For more information or to schedule a test-drive, their friendly staff can be reached at 603-637-2900, and those looking for the latest dealership news can visit MINI of Bedford on Facebook at www.facebook.com/miniofbedford.