Low Ownership Costs Garner IntelliChoice Recognition PEABODY, MA (02/28/2011)(readMedia)-- Already known for their sporty handling, reliability and miserly attitude at the gas pump, the 2011 MINI Cooper Convertible and 2011 MINI Cooper Hatchback can now add Best Overall Value of 2011 to their list of achievements. IntelliChoice, a leading provider of automotive information, named the MINI Convertible as its Best Overall Value of 2011 in the Convertible category, while the MINI Hardtop took the honor in the Sporty/Coupe category. IntelliChoice presents these awards based on predicted ownership costs over five years, including fuel costs, maintenance and repairs, recognizing those new vehicles that offer the best return on investment in their class. "Consumers need to know that fuel efficiency isn't the only thing that matters when you're talking about ownership costs," said Marshal Cabot, general manager of Massachusetts MINI Cooper dealer MINI of Peabody. "With prices rising again at the pump, gas mileage is a big consideration for buyers, but shoppers also need to think about resale value and what it will cost to maintain a new car. MINI shines in all of these areas, and it's great to see independent recognition of the value our models offer." With EPA ratings of 27 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway, the 2011 MINI Cooper Convertible matches up to Detroit's new subcompacts and most hybrids in the fuel efficiency category. The MINI Cooper Hardtop fares even better, kicking city mileage up to 28 mpg in automatic-transmission models. Greater Boston MINI buyers will find themselves spending less time at the gas station, even if Central Artery congestion is part of their daily routines. While fuel economy is an asset, what truly sets the MINI apart from the sporty subcompacts waiting at most showrooms is its pedigree. Beneath the hood, the MINI Convertible and MINI Hardtop carry on the tradition of automotive engineering excellence of their parent company, BMW. The influence of BMW can be seen in the engine design and sporty handling of both models, as well as the reliability of the cars as they age. Owners who want to take the sportiness of the MINI Cooper Convertible and MINI Cooper Hardtop to the limit can now upgrade their cars with a John Cooper Works performance package. Originally available only for Cooper S models, a new John Cooper Works package has been announced for the basic Cooper Convertible and Cooper Hardtop. The package includes a new front bumper, a bigger radiator grille, new side sills and lightweight 17-inch alloy wheels in the John Cooper cross-spoke design. "Just looking at a MINI Convertible gives the impression that this is a well-built car, and that's a design feature that some subcompacts simply cannot match," Cabot said. "Get up close and look under the hood, and the true quality of these cars is apparent. A MINI Cooper is built for everyday use in demanding conditions. People who are thinking about smaller cars for fuel efficiency should give MINI a look to see just how well made a small car can be." Source - PR Newswire