Hot in the wheel tracks of the new Mini Cooper Electric comes the introduction of two new petrol models: the Mini Cooper C and the performance enhanced Mini Cooper S and just like its all-electric counterpart, the Mini Cooper combines minimalist design, traditional brand values and iconic go-kart handling, which followers of the brand have enjoyed down the generations.
The two new models are ideal for all those who desire to drive a classic Mini three door and who appreciate the traditional performance and characteristic sound of a petrol engine and, hands up, I am in that club. My first car was a Mini and despite its basic package it remains to this day very much in my mind. With an output of 204bhp from the four-cylinder engine of the Cooper S, performance is very acceptable. It accelerates from rest to 100kph (62 mph) in just 6.6 seconds, with a maximum torque of 300 Nm. The other power unit delivers 156bhp,a three-cylinder unit, which delivers a torque of 230 Nm and is capable of completing the dash from rest to 100kph (62 mph) in just 7.7 seconds.
Adding very much to the overall driving experience, both models are equipped with a suspension and damping system designed for precise handing and powerful brakes. With its familiar design, the fifth generation Mini Cooper embodies the brand’s core principles: go-kart handling and creative use of space. The styling features clear surfaces, short overhangs and a short bonnet; combined with a contrasting long wheelbase typical of a Mini and chrome is completely removed from the vehicle, bringing a fresh take to the exterior design. The front end is characterised by a new octagonal grille with filigree contour and positioned either side are newly designed circular LED headlights, which are available optionally with three customisable light signatures, each with a specially orchestrated welcome and goodbye animation. The rear features clear surfaces and redesigned matrix lights which can be switched to different modes in the same way as the headlights. The interior is minimalistic, with the entire cockpit focussed on just three elements: the new Vescin steering wheel, a 24cm circular OLED display and toggle bar. The dashboard is constructed using a textile surface, where a specially developed knitting process has been used to create a versatile, easy-care material in a two-tone design that is made of recycled polyester. Behind the steering wheel, the optional Head-up Display ensures that all relevant content appears in the driver’s field of vision. In order to create additional space, all the most important driving functions including parking brake, gear selector, start/stop key, Experience Mode toggle and volume control are directly accessed via the toggle bar.
An opening panoramic glass sunroof floods the cabin with natural light, while the removal of the gearstick generates extra space for a new wireless charging shelf. By folding down the rear seats in a 60:40 ratio, the luggage compartment can be expanded from 210 litres to provide a maximum volume of up to 725 litres. There are seven Mini Experience Modes available; Core, Green, Go-Kart, Personal, Vibrant, Timeless and Balance and each mode has specially designed backgrounds and when one of the seven is selected, the display focuses on a relevant Mode App giving drivers the opportunity to personalise the inside cabin and the Mini projector housed on the back of the OLED display immerses the dashboard in matching colour schemes and patterns, while the combined ambient lighting provides a unique cabin experience. In Go-Kart Mode, there is a focus on the car’s racing DNA; the display and interior as a whole feature the colours anthracite and red, while specific analogue displays for driving dynamics complement this mode inspired by John Cooper Works. Personal Mode allows an individually selected image to be set as the display background via the Mini App and the dominant colours of the image then extend across the textile dashboard surfaces by means of a digital colour picker, while ambient lighting is colour-coded to match these projections. Central to the interior is a circular, 24cm OLED display, where all vehicle functions can be operated via either touch or voice control using Mini Operating System 9. Safety is paramount and numerous driver assistance systems for safe and comfortable driving are part of the package. The new models will be built at Mini Plant Oxford and will be available in three well specified trim levels, Classic, Exclusive and Sport.
When I reflect on my humble 848cc Mini, the new offerings will still offer that all important Mini look and feel; performance and all of the add ons will be appreciated by many as will be the fact that there are petrol engines beneath the bonnet.
Ian Lynas
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