Living with MINI :: MINI Connected | Vehicle Info

One of the menu in MINI Connected is Vehicle Info. It provides Onboard info, Trip computer, and Vehicle status. Onboard info lists travel range with current fuel level, average fuel consumption (MPG), and average speed. Trip computer lists departure time, trip duration, distance traveled, fuel consumption (MPG) and average speed for the trip. Vehicles status gives you visual notification of engine oil level, front and rear brake pads, front and rear tire pressure status, vehicle check (engine check?) and brake fluid level. Trip information can also be found in trip computer in tachometer information screen. (you must like orange color!).

All quite nifty stuff, but I do wish they provide more! Perhaps turbo boost gauge, engine oil temperature info and others. and I am quite not happy about MINIMALISM analyser and Mission Control is only available with expensive cradle $130 bucks or something like that - I am on the fence whether to get it or not. 

Screen captures after the jump.

Living with MINI :: Pandora via MINI Connected

While I haven't wrote much about MINI Connected yet (I will write more in coming days), one of the features that I like is its seamless integration with Pandora. (Pandora is a wonderful internet radio for those not familiar with it) I am a frequent listener/fan of Pandora, but wasn't able to listen much on my GTI as my 9 year old car doesn't even come with AUX input for its Moonsoon sound system - only the cheap tape adapter would makes it possible. It's a whole different story in my MINI Countryman as I can simply connect my iPhone to MINI Connected (via supplied Y-Cable), listen as I wish, and even control everything all through MINI Connected without even touching my iPhone.

Video :: What is MINI Connected?

One item that I did not want to miss out when I ordered the Countryman was MINI Connected. Vehicle infotainment and connectivity is a big thing these days and it seems almost all manufacturers either already have or will include them in their cars, and I certainly wanted to experience the best MINI has to offer. MINI Connected allows the driver to simply tuck an iPhone into the built-in USB port making it one with the MINI hi-res cockpit display. Also, you can monitor your driving efficiency and even update your Facebook and Twitter status on the move. On top of that, the GUI - graphic user interface - is very attractive and quite intuitive and iDrive like UI is actually easier to use than I thought. Controlling radio including Sirus Satellite radio and scrolling through my phone book without touching my iPhone via nicely laid out GUI is a breeze and there are various settings you can control, including DRL -daytime running lights - and door lock.

While I will post my own detailed review of MINI Connected in near future, see MINI Connected in a video and get an overview of all the current and up coming functionalities after the jump.