ShareThis2009 MINI COOPER S
TYPE: Front-drive, four-passenger, subcompact coupe.
WHERE BUILT: Oxford, United Kingdom.
PRICE: $21,950 base, $26,950 as tested.
KEY RIVALS: Smart For Two, Volkswagen New Beetle.
POWER: 1.6-liter, 172 horsepower, 16-valve, turbocharged 4-cylinder engine; six-speed Getrag manual transmission.
FUEL ECONOMY: 26 city, 34 highway mpg; estimated annual fuel cost $2,225.
CHASSIS: Strut front/multi-link rear suspension; power steering; power disc brakes with ABS, corner brake control, electronic brake-force distribution, dynamic stability control; 16-inch alloy wheels; 195/55R-16 performance tires.
WHEELBASE X TRACK: 100.3 x 57.2 inches.
LENGTH X WIDTH X HEIGHT: 155.8 x 66.3 x 56.4 inches.
CURB WEIGHT: 2,668 pounds.
STANDARD: Multi-function steering wheel, center armrest, foglights, air conditioning, on-board computer, six air bags, remote keyless entry, AM/FM/CD audio system with six speakers, power windows/locks/mirrors, split-folding rear seats, personal lighting.
OPTIONS: Leather upholstery ($1,000) 17-inch alloy wheels ($750); comfort access system ($500); white bonnet stripes ($100); heated front seats ($500); Bluetooth and USB/iPod ($1,000); xenon headlights ($500).
(Richard Williamson writes about automobiles for Scripps Howard News Service.)
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