New Mini convertible expected to roll out in 2016

A third generation Mini Convertible is coming to soak up the sun in 2016. This will feature a fabric soft-top that takes 18 seconds to retract and is quieter and smoother than the previous versions. For safety, rollover protection bars pop-up when needed.

Other creature comforts include air-con, Bluetooth, rear parking sensors and a reversing camera are standard, along with a 6.5 inchdisplay screen. An even larger display with GPS is an option. Pick the ‘Mini Connected XL’ option and should drivers park the mini with the roof open, it can even text you automatically if rain’s expected. Now, that's just smart.

Source: Car magazine

BMW and Mini make it easy to record on-road adventures with your GoPro

BMW and Mini have made it easier to integrate your GoPro with your car. The action cam now works with BMW’s infotainment system. It lets you configure the camera, choose from the pre-set modes, and start and stop recordings right on the in-car system’s screen.

There are a few requirements though. It only works on 2012 or newer BMW and Mini models that come with BMW Apps or Mini Connected option. You can only use Wi-Fi-connected GoPro a.k.a. HERO3+ and you would need to connect to an iPhone 4 or later to the car via USB because this will be the only way to communicate with the entertainment suite using GoPro’s iOS app.

Source: Engadget

LG plays the 'mini' game with downscaled LG G2

Many leading smartphone makers have released 'mini' versions of their flagship smartphones which are actually midrange handsets featuring reduced size and limited features. A sure way to profit from the shine of their popular devices, while selling cheaper and less powerful models. LG has gone this route by revealing the LG G2 mini which is a smaller 4.7-inch (960 x 540 qHD) screen variant. The mini retains the shape of the LG G2, the 'innovative' rear button and the knock to unlock as well as the Guest Mode features. That's about all it inherits from its superphone brethren. It runs on a Qualcomm quad-core processor (same as the budget Moto G's), has 1GB of RAM, an 8-megapixel rear camera, 8GB of onboard storage and Android 4.4 KitKat. The LG G2 mini is slated for a Mobile World Congress reveal and so we'll get more information on pricing and availability then.

Source: Engadget

Motoring: Mini Countryman supersizes the Mini line

Living large: The Mini Countryman is the largest Mini and the first with four doors

We're finding the 2011 Mini Countryman strangely appealing. It is Mini's crossover and it comes with 4 doors, a larger interior and a 4-wheel drive variant. This can be the Mini that's both practical and fun with a variety of engine and accessory choices.

Mini head designer Gert Hilldebrand explained the idea of a larger Mini was something the automaker struggled with.

“But Mini customers — those with children or extra stuff to carry around or who can only afford one car — demanded we build this car,” Hilldebrand stated.

The 2011 Mini Countryman is available in Canada starting at $27,850.