What's the news?
'Nani', the Spanish driver that took the top step of the podium at this year's Dakar Rally, has been confirmed for the Goodwood Festival of Speed. He'll drive his Dakar-winning MINI ALL4 Racing up the famous hill course on the Friday. That's not all MINI has planned for the festival either.
The rally car's road-going cousin, the revised MINI Countryman, will also be on display. Among the changes are new colours, including Jungle Green, and for the Cooper S model power is increased to 190hp. Making its first appearance in the UK is the MINI John Cooper Works Hatch concept; previewing the next generation of John Cooper Works models. The current JCW range of Roadster, Coupé and Paceman (in limited edition Frozen Black) will also be on show. MINI's new Hatch will also be on display; a blue LED arch will be positioned over the car to represent MINI Connected, the in-car connectivity system. It is reported that orders for the new Hatch are at the highest level since the brand was re-launched in 2001.
Anything else?
If you fancy something a bit more 'hands on' there will be three full-size MINI Hatch simulators for visitors to take a virtual drive up the Goodwood course. Prizes will be given to drivers who post the best times.
John Lambert - 23 Jun 2014