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Mini attempts first-ever backflip in a car

Not too long ago, the idea of doing a backflip seemed almost impossible on two wheels let alone four, but now the stunt is routinely performed using everything from dirtbikes to monster trucks. Now Mini is getting into the game by attempting to perform a backflip with French stuntman Guerlain Chicherit behind the wheel of a highly modified Countryman, which it claims is the first-ever attempt at doing so with a car.
Another unique element of the jump that Mini is claiming is in regards to the ramp. Past automotive backflips, including Rhys Millen's 2009 jump to ring in the New Year, have used special ramps that help rotate the car, but the ramp Chicherit uses is "unassisted" and the backflip is attempted using only "a gas pedal and a prayer" according to a Mini spokesman for the event.
The video posted below is only a teaser showing the car launch up into the air, but while we have to wait until February 10 to see the final result, it sounds like the landing was a success. According to the Chicherit's Facebook page, practice for the stunt took 18 months of work with "lots of crashes."

These vehicles are least likely to be recalled over their lifetimes

Recalls can be a real pain, especially if the vehicle has to be left with the dealer for extended repairs or parts delays. However, some models see far fewer recalls over their lifetimes than others, and as iSeeCars’ new study shows, some might almost never be recalled. iSeeCars analyzed data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to create a model that predicts the likelihood of a recall over a 30-year vehicle lifespan. So, while the numbers are based on current recall data, they should be viewed as rough estimates rather than set-in-stone numbers. Still, the results are interesting, and they show that commonly held views on vehicle reliability and lifetime maintenance costs donÂ’t tell the whole picture. The 10 least-recalled vehicles: 10. Lexus IS 300: 0.7 recalls over a 30-year period 9. Mercedes-Benz GLC: 0.7 recalls 8. Mercedes-Benz GLA: 0.6 recalls 7. Hyundai Elantra GT: 0.6 6. Nissan 370Z: 0.5 5. Lexus RX 450h: 0.5 4. Mercedes-Benz CLA: 0.5 3. Lincoln MKZ Hybrid: 0.5 2. Lexus NX 300h: 0.3 1. Mini Convertible: 0.2 Seeing the Lexus name on the least-recalled list isnÂ’t surprising, but it might be a shock to see Mercedes and Mini so high on the list. In between several Japanese brands, five other Benzes, two Ford Fusion variants, and the Chevy Trailblazer ranked on the full list of 33 least-recalled vehicles. For every “best” list, there has to be a “worst” list, and in this case, iSeeCars found 25 models that take recalls to a whole new level. The Tesla Model Y is projected to rack up 62.4 recalls over its lifetime, followed by the Porsche Panamera at 61.8 and the Tesla Model 3 at 56.8. Luckily, many Tesla recalls are handled with an over-the-air update instead of a trip to the dealer, but the numbers are concerning. Plus, iSeeCars pointed out that Teslas buck the normal recall trends. Most new models tend to see fewer recalls over time, but some of the American EV makerÂ’s vehicles see consistent recall activity and even increases in the number of actions. Government/Legal Recalls MINI Ownership Safety

2016 Mini Clubman stretches out, opens wide for Frankfurt crowd [w/video]

On the surface, there are two things you need to know that differentiate the new Mini Clubman from not only its short-wheelbase counterpart, but the brand's two other five-door models. First, its stretched wheelbase really is very long, and second, it still has those nifty barn doors in back. That extra four inches added between the axles is important, because it makes for not only the longest vehicle Mini has ever built – it's actually slightly longer than a four-door Volkswagen Golf – it's easily its roomiest, as well. The backseats are suitable for real human beings. Even with a taller driver in front, seating behind the driver is far from cramped, although we'd hesitate to put three adults in the second row. Compared to the aforementioned VW, there's a total of 34.3 inches of rear legroom, or just 1.3 inches less than the Golf. As for those twin barn doors, they swing open at the kick of a foot (when so optioned), much like the smart tailgates being fitted to so many crossovers. Once open, they grant users access to 17.5 cubic feet of cargo space, complete with a liftable flat floor. Fold the second row down, and there's a total of 47.9 cu ft of cargo space. Check out our entire live gallery of the all-new – and fully undisguised, this time around – direct from the floor of the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show. RIPE FOR FRESH CONQUESTS: THE NEW MINI CLUBMAN Woodcliff Lake, NJ, June 24, 2015. The new generation of the MINI model family continues to grow. With the new MINI Clubman it now conquers the premium compact segment, too. The new model offers the highest level of everyday practicality, long distance suitability, versatility and ride comfort ever seen in a MINI. With four doors and the characteristic split doors at the rear, five fully-fledged seats and a generously sized, versatile interior, the new MINI Clubman meets all the requirements of the compact class in terms of functionality in its own unconventional way. Individual style, outstanding driving fun and the quality level of a premium automobile make it an exceptional phenomenon that allows additional target groups to get a taste of the distinctive MINI feeling. The matured character of the new MINI Clubman is reflected in dimensions that are significantly larger than the predecessor model, a distinctive body concept, high-quality materials and finish quality and also new features in the areas of drive, suspension comfort, safety, controls and connectivity based on the latest MINI generation.