The latest generation of the three-door Mini hatchback emerged in 2013, followed by its five-door sibling a year later and a convertible in 2015. The trio received a number of improvements in early 2018, and now, the time has come for another major refresh.
Novelty begins with the front clip, where the radiator grille is larger than before, there are vertical air intakes at the sides, headlight bezels are black rather than chrome, and the middle part of the bumper now matches the body color instead of being black. The wheel arches and the rear bumper sport their share of changes, too, and Union Jack-patterned LED lights at both ends are now standard equipment for all trims.
Customers may choose from three new exterior colors, five new wheel designs, and even opt for Multitone Roof that is made up from three consecutively applied colors.
There are fewer chrome details inside than before, and air vents are completely new. A sports steering wheel wrapped in leather is included in all specifications, although you may want to pay extra for heating. Gas-powered cars also come with an optional digital cockpit, while the electric Cooper SE has a five-inch display already included. The central display measures 8.8 inches across.
Other notable options include an electro-mechanical handbrake, cruise control with Stop & Go support, ambient lighting, an app for easy remote control of most in-car functions, and adaptive suspension.
As far as powertrains go, you can choose either gasoline or electric. The former range is represented by three-cylinder mills rated at 75, 102 and 136 metric horsepower (55, 75 and 100 kilowatts, respectively). There are also four-cylinder variants good for 178 and 231 hp (130 and 170 kW). Supported transmissions include six-speed manual and seven-speed DCT, while the range-topping John Cooper Works makes use of an eight-speed A/T.
The battery-powered Cooper SE still ships with the single-option electric motor rated at 184 hp (135 kW) and 32.6 kilowatt-hours of juice, which translates into between 203 and 234 kilometers (126 – 145 miles) of WLTP range.
Sales will begin in March this year.