If the recent Internet rumors turn out to be true, and they usually so, Mini Cooper SD will be unveiled at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show. The SD is apparently a high performance – well, sort of – version of the Cooper D diesel, which at 74.3mpg and 99g/km CO2 is extremely frugal and clean, but a bit numb performance wise.

The Cooper SD will probably solve that issue by compromising a tiny bit on the economy, to deliver more grunt. Sources say that it will be powered by BMW’s 2.0 liter diesel unit which offers around 140 hp and 225lb ft of torque. That hardly makes a proper hot hatch, but given the eco advantages of the diesel, sounds like a good idea for a little bit more fun. It’s not likely though for Mini to give the car a new look, just a few badges and some new stripes maybe!

The SD will offer less mpg, probably 10 less, but 30 more horsepower. So at around 60 mpg, it is still a pretty efficient daily driver. That extra power should make the Mini Cooper better and more fun to drive. You can expect a 0 to 60 mph sprint time of around 8 seconds which isn’t half bad.

Official details should emerge in a couple of days. We keep you posted.