Episode 118: Diesels Depart, Buttons Return, Defeated a Scammer & Dragon Season Begins

 Welcome back to The Cooper Cast Podcast, with host Dale Blankenship and Producer Kodi, who slept through the entire episode, but will likely still want a treat. This episode starts with a look at MINI’s decision to discontinue the diesel power plant, marking the end of an era for MINI’s evolving lineup. From there, we talk about something that many drivers will be happy to hear—the return of knobs, buttons, and switches to dashboards. After years of everything moving to touchscreens, it seems the tide may be turning back toward tactile controls that drivers actually prefer.Next up, a quick community win: a MINI owner was recently saved from falling into the clutches thanks to a few post made by your host. It’s a good reminder of how valuable these networks can be when people look out for one another.Then we shift into MINIs On The Dragon season, kicking things off with an overview of this year’s event. It’s shaping up to be another strong gathering, and while this episode sets the stage, we’ll be diving deeper into the details, happenings, and stories in the weeks ahead as the event draws closer.Another well-rounded episode filled with MINI news, community moments, and a look ahead at one of the most anticipated events on the calendar.Motor safely… and don’t forget to wave! 🚗🐾Diesle demise:https://www.bmwblog.com/2026/02/11/mini-diesel-countryman-mount-fuji-photoshoot/Buttons Return:https://www.motoringfile.com/2026/02/12/head-of-mini-design-on-touchscreens-vs-physical-buttons/MINIs On The Dragon! :https://minisonthedragon.com/