Its clever, the way that each generation MINI evolves yet still stays true to the spirit of the original. You’ll notice the new octagonal grille, circular LED headlamps, and new taillamp treatment, but the essence remains unchanged: short clamshell bonnet, wheel at each corner, three doors, sporty stance. Looking closer you’ll spot an absence of chrome trim and the smooth treatment of exterior surfaces, giving a clean, contemporary look. It’s classic, fresh, and classy.
PERFORMANCE
The all-electric Cooper is described elsewhere, so let’s focus on the two petrol models. Starting with the Cooper C, we have a 1.5-litre three-cylinder engine that produces 156 horsepower and 230 Nm of torque, giving it a nippy 0-62mph time of 7.7 seconds. Or there’s the Cooper S, a name made famous in the ’60s with those Italian Job movie stunts and three outright wins in the Monte Carlo Rally. Today’s Cooper S has a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, develops 204hp and 300Nm, and dispatches the 0-62mph run in just 6.6 seconds. There’s no manual option. Instead, both the Cooper C and S models drive the front wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
TECHNOLOGY
The interior of the MINI Cooper is dominated by a sensational round central 24cm touchscreen, which uses OLED technology and displays a variety of graphic backgrounds according to which of the seven MINI Experience modes you select. The upper half displays vehicle-related information such as speed and vehicle status, while the lower area houses navigation, media, phone, and climate. All functions can be operated via either touch or voice control; when using the latter the words ‘Hey MINI’ will activate a 3D car avatar or MINI’s digital companion, Spike. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity come as standard. There are three trim levels to choose from, Classic, Exclusive and Sport, as well as five exterior finishes, two contrasting roof colours and three-wheel options, so it’s simple to make your MINI Cooper a reflection of your personality.
SAFETY
As is the norm nowadays, all the MINI models come with a wide range of driver assistance systems, while the optional Driving Assistant Plus package includes Active Cruise Control and Lane Change Warning. Another excellent safety feature for town drivers is the Safe Exit function; this monitors the area around the parked vehicle and warns approaching road users before the door is opened. Safe Exit not only delays the unlocking of the doors, but also uses light signals outside the vehicle to warn of a possible collision, which could be a lifesaver for approaching cyclists.
