2013 Mini Cooper ALL4 Review

The choice of all-wheel-drive MINI models is poised for further expansion in March 2013. That’s when the MINI Paceman will be launched, boosting to eight the number of models available with ALL4 as standard or as an option. The first Sports Activity Coupé in the premium compact segment sees ALL4 optionally teaming up with the diesel engines in the MINI Cooper SD Paceman (105 kW/143 hp) and MINI Cooper D Paceman (82 kW/112 hp), as well as the petrol unit under the bonnet of the MINI Cooper S Paceman (135 kW/184 hp). Also primed for action is the MINI John Cooper Works Paceman. Fitted with the all-wheel-drive system as standard, it converts the power of its 160 kW/218 hp, race-developed engine into extreme driving fun with supreme assurance in any situation. All models come as standard with a six-speed manual gearbox, while a six-speed automatic can be ordered as an option.

All of which means ALL4 can now offer drivers of eight MINI models a noticeable boost to traction, directional stability and agility through corners. With four all-wheel-drive variants and the choice between manual or automatic gearboxes, the MINI Countryman makes its own contribution to the impressive variety of the brand’s ALL4 range. ALL4 is available as an option for the MINI Cooper S Countryman, MINI Cooper SD Countryman and MINI Cooper D Countryman, while the MINI John Cooper Works Countryman sends its eye-catching power through all four wheels as standard.

ALL4 was developed specially for MINI models and, since its introduction in 2010, has broken new ground and won over additional target groups. The all-wheel-drive system uses an electromagnetic centre differential to distribute drive seamlessly between the front and rear axles. In normal driving situations ALL4 diverts up to 50 per cent of the engine’s power to the rear wheels, rising to as much as 100 per cent in extreme conditions, such as on ice and snow-covered surfaces. The control electronics of the MINI ALL4 system are integrated directly into the DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) management unit, enabling drive to be channelled through the wheels as required in a matter of milliseconds.