Maximum Fun, Minimal Outlay: The New MINI Ray

MULGRAVE, AUSTRALIA – April 8, 2011: In news sure to set the hearts of local MINI-fans racing, MINI Australia today announced the introduction of a sub-$30,000 drive-away MINI.

The ‘MINI RAY’ becomes the enticing new entry-point to the brand, with a manufacturer’s recommended retail price of just $25,500 including GST (excluding LCT).

The MINI RAY is powered by a 1.6 litre engine with VALVETRONIC valve operation ensuring efficient delivery of torque and fuel consumption. Maximum power output of 72kW and torque of 153Nm available from 3000 rpm propel the MINI RAY from 0 to 100 in 10.5 seconds, a mere one-tenth of a second behind the MINI Cooper automatic. Fuel consumption is 5.4 litres per 100 km on the combined cycle allowing the MINI RAY to travel well over 700 kms on a single tank of fuel.

First offered in Italy, the MINI RAY boasts a number of distinct styling features to set it apart from the crowd including MINI RAY mirror caps and side scuttles in six different colours: Alien Green, Lemon Yellow, Flash White, Energy Pink, Vitamin Orange and Shocking Blue as well as MINI RAY specific hub caps designed and imported from Italy.

Standard specification on the MINI RAY includes MP3 player connection, 6-speaker sound system and an on-board computer with Condition Based Service Interval Indicator.

The MINI RAY comes standard in either Pepper White or Chilli Red with three metallic paint options, Midnight Black, British Racing Green and Velvet Silver, optionally available.

The MINI RAY offers six airbags and Dynamic Stability Control making it among the safest cars on Australia’s roads with a 5-star ANCAP safety rating.

The MINI RAY comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission. First cars will arrive in dealerships next week.

MINI Australia National Manager, David Woollcott, said he expects the initial offering of 300 examples of the exclusive MINI RAY to be snapped up quickly by Australian customers.

“Based on the MINI ONE we anticipate strong interest in the MINI RAY which has already proven highly-popular in Europe”, said Mr Woollcott.

“There are many MINI-lovers who, until now, may have felt MINI was out of their price range.

“The MINI RAY appeals to both the heart and the head, with only 300 cars available initially, the privilege will be limited to just a lucky few,” he said.