Photo by Ulysses Ang

British United Automobiles, Inc. is completing the local Mini line-up by formally introducing the all-new Mini Coupe and Roadster at the Manila International Auto Show (MIAS).

The Mini Coupe is a new two-seater model that is geared squarely to maximize driving fun thanks to its fun selection of engines, chassis set-up, weight distribution and aerodynamic properties. The Mini Coupe is the first model in Mini's history to adopt a three-box body structure with a striking stepped rear end. The Mini Coupe can be ordered from the Coupe S (184 horsepower, P 2,950,000) and the Coupe John Cooper Works (JCW) with 211 horsepower (P 3,650,000).

Meanwhile, the sixth model in Mini's line-up is the all-new Mini Roadster which is basically a soft-top version of the Coupe. The soft-top is operated by hand and can be operated at any speed. An active rear spoiler activates at speeds above 80 km/h for increased stability. The Roadster retails for P 3,150,000 for the S and P 3,650,000 for the JCW version.

Read the full press release after the break.


Press Release
MINI Launches Coupe, Roadster at MIAS

British United Automobiles Inc. launches the MINI Coupé, a new two-seater model to the MINI family that is geared squarely to maximizing driving fun.

The selection of engines, chassis set-up, weight distribution and aerodynamic properties of the MINI Coupé are all focused on delivering optimum performance. As a result, the new car radiates the brand’s hallmark go-kart feeling with a whole new depth of intensity and achieves the best performance statistics ever recorded by a volume-produced MINI.

The MINI Coupé is the brand’s first model to adopt a three-box body structure with a strikingly stepped rear end. Its distinctive lines are expressed in the customary MINI design language and combine with unmistakable styling features. All of which accurately showcases both the new model’s distinctive characteristics and its brand identity. Its flat silhouette and innovative “helmet roof” lend the MINI Coupé a sporty and individual allure. In addition to the integral roof spoiler, an active rear spoiler optimises airflow at higher speeds.

Inside the car, the two-seater concept is emphasised by features such as oval recesses in the roof liner. With its extremely high-opening tailgate and large luggage area with through-loading facility, the MINI Coupé displays outstanding versatility in day-to-day driving, when transporting leisure items or sports gear, and on trips out with a lucky partner.

The MINI Coupé can be ordered with the most powerful petrol engine in the brand’s arsenal. Outputs range from the 120 hp of the MINI Cooper Coupé, to the MINI Cooper S Coupé (184 hp), all the way up to the MINI John Cooper Works Coupé, a thoroughbred athlete producing 211 hp.

A level of chassis quality unmatched in the small car segment gives the new MINI model the handling flair you would expect from the brand. The precise Electric Power Steering, the standard-fitted DSC stability control system, powerful brakes and measures designed specifically to optimise torsional rigidity ensure the MINI Coupé driver can enjoy the ultimate in go-kart feeling.

The striking roof of the MINI Coupé is painted in a contrasting colour as standard, while the options list includes a new interpretation of the MINI Sport stripes. An extended selection of seat variants, door trim, trim strips and Colour Lines can be specified for the interior. Standard equipment of the MINI Coupé includes; automatic air conditioning, speed-sensitive power steering, electrically adjustable and folding exterior mirrors, Park Distance Control, Sports leather steering wheel with gear shift paddles, sports seats for driver and front passenger, Chrome Line Interior, Comfort access system, an audio system with MP3-compatible CD player and AUX IN connection, USB Audio Interface and Bluetooth hands free.

An array of high-quality options enhance the comfort and individuality of the MINI Coupé. Plus, customers can also dip into the exclusive MINI Yours range of products, as well as options and accessories with a strong sporting flavor from John Cooper Works. 


Manila International Auto Show sees the market launch of the first open-top two-seater in Mini history – the MINI Roadster. The sixth model from the British premium carmaker is an elegant, sporty compact car for discerning drivers who value high-class design, powerful engines and precision suspension. This typical MINI interpretation of a compact roadster unites purist sportiness with the spontaneous fun of driving around town with the top down.

MINI has faithfully reproduced its hallmark design language within the proportions of a roadster, bestowing on the open-top two-seater its unmistakable look and highlighting its elegant, sweeping silhouette even with the roof closed. The MINI Roadster’s soft-top can be quickly and easily opened by hand – allowing for spontaneous, concentrated top-down driving pleasure.


Moreover, with its 240-liter, visually distinct boot, the MINI Roadster offers versatile loading options, thanks in particular to the wide through-loading aperture behind the seats. The padded stainless steel roll-over bars and the windscreen frame round off the car’s elegant design – while at the same time ensuring optimal safety for both driver and passenger.


Powerful engines in tandem with precisely tuned suspension systems generate the customary MINI go-kart feeling. Meanwhile, front-wheel drive – another hallmark brand attribute – teams up with chassis technology of a quality unmatched in the small car segment to ensure unequalled driving fun. Also playing their part are the standard-fitted Dynamic Stability Control system and optimal aerodynamics even with the top down – thanks to an active rear spoiler which automatically extends when the MINI Roadster reaches 80 km/h (50 mph).


MINI Roadster drivers can also savour their car’s premium character in its high-quality range of standard equipment, which includes air conditioning, electrically adjustable exterior mirrors, Park Distance Control, height-adjustable seats and an MP3-capable audio system with CD player and AUX IN connection. On the exterior paintwork front, the MINI Roadster has a palette of two non-metallic and six metallic shades to choose from, as well as three Sport Stripes variants for the bonnet, boot lid and rear aprons. The soft-top is black, in true British tradition. On the inside, the MINI Roadster likewise offers a diversity of design options, with seat and upholstery variants ranging from sporty/compact to elegant. They include exclusive piped sports seats in the colour shade Toffy, as well as black sports seats in Punch Leather with beige perforations, and any of six different trim strip options.