Throughout the MINI’s history, owners have been overcome by the desire to make their pocket rockets even faster, and whilst the second generation MINI R56 might not look too much different to its generation 1 counterpart, a new turbocharged engine and a few stylistic tweaks really set them apart. Launched in 2006, the second generation MINI has become increasingly more popular both on the road and on the track and the variety of aftermarket parts available for both the N14 and the N18 versions means that tuning this MINI has never been easier. So here is our list of favourite modifications for this hugely popular second-generation MINI.
1) Lohen Performance Packs
Our performance packs combine some of the best hardware and software components on the market, to deliver a MINI that oozes both power and torque. Performance pack 1 is aimed more towards the everyday driver, it delivers a healthy power gain (35+ bhp) whilst allowing it to perform at its best. Performance pack 2 is tailored more towards those that use their MINI for fast road applications. With the addition of a high flow sports catalyst, this pack looks to deliver between 70 - 75 bhp and producing a MINI that will put a smile on anyone's face.
VIEW THE GENERATION 2 LOHEN PEROFMRNACE PACK 1 >>
VIEW THE GENERATION 2 LOHEN PERFORMANCE PACK 2 >>
CHECK OUT THE LOHEN DYNO LEADER BOARD TO SEE THE POWER FIGURES OF SOME MINI's WITH THESE PACKAGES >>
2) AEM Induction Kit
Designed for both the N14 and N18 MINI engines, the AEM intake kit is one of the only induction kits on the market that utilises the bonnet scoop. The AEM kits help to maximise the amount of cold air drawn in through the intake with the help of a K&N air filter that also traps dust and debris. Fitting one of these induction kits to your MINI will improve its throttle response and induction noise whilst adding a few extra bhp. In-house, testing shows a gain of approximately 21 bhp on a 2012 MINI JCW.
VIEW THE AEM N14 INTAKE KIT >>
VIEW THE AEM N18 INTAKE KIT >>
3) Big Brake Kits
The standard MINI brake set up tends to be small and smaller calipers and discs often lead to the brakes overheating and can quickly lead to brake fade when used on the track. As big brake kits come with larger discs, calipers and brake pads made of better compounds, they can withstand much higher temperatures for longer periods of time, making them perfect for track use. We stock big brake kits from some of the leading brands including AP Racing, Brembo and Tarox. Hit the link provided to see our full range of brake its.
VIEW OUR RANGE OF BIG BRAKE KITS >>
4) ST XTA Coilovers
The ST XTA coilovers are designed and manufactured by KW Automotive and allow you to significantly refine the camber and damping adjustability of your MINI’s set up to give the best handling and performance. If you are looking for a fantastic suspension kit at an affordable price then these are the coilovers for you as they can be adjusted to suit any driving preference. These coilovers when combined with the Lohen geometry products will allow you to precisely set up your MINI to fit your driving style and improve both its handling and performance on the track.
5) Lohen Geometry Products
Our geometry products are designed and manufactured in-house at Lohen. We have adjustable front and rear drop links and rear control arms available in a variety of colours. The generation 2 front and rear drop links are made of extra strong 7075 aluminium, they are corrosion resistant and offer adjustability on or off the car. Our rear control arms allow for corner weighting and can be adjusted to extreme angles for MINI owners who like the look of a MINI with extreme camber.
VIEW THE LOHEN GEOMETRY PRODUCTS >>
If you want a MINI that can produce upwards of 300 bhp we recommend getting the following fitted:
6) A Crate Engine Build
We offer a range of crate engine builds that are designed to strengthen the areas where we often see common failure points. All our crate engines use high-quality parts and we have options for all applications including fast road and track use. For those wanting to push 300+ bhp, we recommend opting for a minimum of Config 1a.
VIEW THE LOHEN N14 CRATE ENGINE BUILDS >>
VIEW THE LOHEN N18 CRATE ENGINE BUILDS >>
7) Lohen 330 Big Turbo Kit
Our 330 Big Turbo Kit was specifically designed for the N14 MINI engine to offer a true upgrade for a stage 2 MINI. This kit will produce a MINI that will continually perform at its best without compromising on its usability. Everything in this kit has been developed and tested in-house and we have worked with some of the biggest brands in the industry to ensure that this is a bolt-on turbo upgrade that requires no custom modifications.
VIEW THE LOHEN MINI STAGE 3 N14 330 BIG TURBO KIT >>
While these are our favourite generation 2 MINI modifications we have a variety of tuning options to meet everyone's driving needs, that includes everything from everyday driving to heavy track use. We advise speaking to one of the Lohen team members if you require any advice on tuning your MINI - they are contactable on 01785 859999 or [email protected].
