The recently launched Honda Insight and third-generation Toyota Prius have stolen most of the green spotlight here in the U.S., but the European market is about to get a crack at an equally impressive high-mileage machine.
Set to hit the European market later this year, the MINI Cooper One D promise hybrid-like fuel mileage without the added cost and weight associated with a hybrid system. Joining the MINI One as one of the marques most modestly priced models, the diesel-powered MINI One D promises to return the equivalent of 60 mpg.
While most of that fuel sipping can be attributed to the cars BMW-sourced 90 horsepower diesel engine, MINI engineers also include a few other bits of green tech. The One D will employ a regenerative braking system to help recoup some energy for accessory power and a start-stop system will ensure no fuel is wasted while the vehicle is at a stop.
Performance is also decent for a green machine with the sprint from 0-60 taking 11.5 seconds not too far off from current hybrids. And, thanks to the MINI badge, the One D should feel right at home on the twisty bits.
There are no current plans to bring the MINI One D to the States, but with U.S. diesel sales starting to take off, and Americanized version might not be too far off.
Set to hit the European market later this year, the MINI Cooper One D promise hybrid-like fuel mileage without the added cost and weight associated with a hybrid system. Joining the MINI One as one of the marques most modestly priced models, the diesel-powered MINI One D promises to return the equivalent of 60 mpg.
While most of that fuel sipping can be attributed to the cars BMW-sourced 90 horsepower diesel engine, MINI engineers also include a few other bits of green tech. The One D will employ a regenerative braking system to help recoup some energy for accessory power and a start-stop system will ensure no fuel is wasted while the vehicle is at a stop.
Performance is also decent for a green machine with the sprint from 0-60 taking 11.5 seconds not too far off from current hybrids. And, thanks to the MINI badge, the One D should feel right at home on the twisty bits.
There are no current plans to bring the MINI One D to the States, but with U.S. diesel sales starting to take off, and Americanized version might not be too far off.
