Redressing the Chilli factor

A MINI Cooper S with a dash of Chilli now costs a bit less, after a pricing realignment that sees around 75 per cent chopped off the price of the popular option.

Available on MINI Cooper, Cooper S, Cooper D and Cabrio and Clubman versions, the package – which varies in content depending on the model – is priced 75 per cent lower than previously.

The manufacturer's recommended list price for a Chilli equipped Cooper S is now $41,600, or $900 above the basic Cooper S price.

In the Cooper S hatch, the Chilli package brings goodies such as upgraded, conical-spoke 17-inch alloy wheels, bi-Xenon headlights with washers, sports seats with cloth/leather trim, a Harmon Kardon audio system and climate-control air-conditioning - all of which, according to the MINI team, adds up to a total value of more than $5500. Chilli specification for the Cooper S Clubman version varies from the S hatch only with the adoption of 17-inch two-piece web-spoke alloy wheels.

Standard Cooper S specification includes stability control, cornering brake control, sport button, onboard computer, Bluetooth and USB audio interface.

The Chilli pack in regular Cooper hatch variants, including the turbodiesel D version, includes 16-inch alloys, "Chrome line" exterior, sports seats with cloth/leather trim, climate-control and Harmon Kardon audio.

In Clubman form, the Chilli pack includes 17-inch alloys, "Chrome line" exterior, sports seats with cloth/leather trim, climate-control and Harmon Kardon audio.

According to MINI's national manager David Woollcott, "Our customers demonstrate their appreciation of MINI's vast customisation options. The Chilli package has always proven extremely popular."

Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at the carsales mobile site