The MINI Cooper is a classic automotive industry icon known for its distinctive design, agile handling, and fun-to-drive personality. But as the world shifts to electric vehicles, the MINI brand is also undergoing a major transformation. The new MINI Cooper and Cooper S, which debuted in February 2024, are the last gas-powered models of the three-door hatchback before the brand introduces a completely new family of electric vehicles later this year.
The new MINI Cooper and Cooper S: What’s new and what’s not
The new MINI Cooper and Cooper S are part of the model's fifth generation, which stands for simplicity and charisma. The exterior design retains the typical MINI proportions, with short overhangs, a long wheelbase, and a short bonnet. The front grille has a new octagonal shape with filigree contours and a chrome frame. The headlights and taillights are LED, featuring the Union Jack motif. The side scuttles and the fuel filler cap have a new design, and the door handles are now flush with the body. The new models also offer new colors, such as Island Blue and Zesty Yellow, and new wheel designs, ranging from 16 to 18 inches.
The interior of the new MINI Cooper and Cooper S is minimalist and modern, with new materials and digital features. The dashboard has a horizontal layout, with a central touchscreen display that runs the MINI Operating System 9. This system allows the driver to customize the user interface, access online services, and use voice and gesture control. The new MINI Experience Modes let the driver choose between different ambient lighting and sound settings, such as Lounge, Sport, or Individual. The steering wheel has a new design, with multifunction buttons and a heating function. The seats are available in leather or fabric, with various colors and patterns. The luggage compartment has a capacity of 211 liters, which can be expanded to 731 liters by folding the rear seats.
The new MINI Cooper and Cooper S are powered by two efficient gasoline engines, with a choice of three or four cylinders. The MINI Cooper C has a 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine that produces 156 hp and 230 Nm of torque, while the MINI Cooper S has a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 204 hp and 300 Nm of torque. Both engines are turbocharged and feature direct injection, variable valve control, and a particulate filter. The engines are paired with either a six-speed manual transmission or a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, with paddle shifters on the steering wheel. The new models also have a start-stop function, a coasting function, and a mild hybrid system that recovers energy during braking and supports the engine during acceleration.
The new MINI Cooper and Cooper S offer the brand’s iconic go-kart feeling, thanks to the suspension and damping system, the precise steering, and the powerful brakes. The new models also have a new Dynamic Stability Control system, which improves traction and stability on slippery roads. The driver can also select between different driving modes, such as Green, Mid, or Sport, which adjust the throttle response, the steering feel, and the engine sound. The new models also have a range of driver assistance systems, such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, park assist, head-up display, and rear-view camera.
The new MINI Cooper and Cooper S: The last hurrah for the gas-powered lineup
The 2024 MINI Cooper and Cooper S are the last gas-powered models of the three-door hatchback, as the brand plans to introduce a completely new family of electric vehicles later this year. The brand already has an all-electric version of the MINI Cooper and will be joined by other electric models soon. The brand aims to become fully electric by 2030, as part of its commitment to sustainability and innovation.
The new MINI Cooper and Cooper S are, therefore, a farewell to the gas-powered era and a tribute to the brand’s heritage and legacy. The new models combine the classic MINI design and driving fun with modern technology and efficiency, offering a unique and enjoyable driving experience. The new models also celebrate the brand’s loyal fans and customers, who have made the MINI Cooper one of the most popular and beloved cars in the world.
The new MINI Cooper and Cooper S are available in the UK from £22,300 and £26,700, respectively, and in the US from $24,900 and $29,900, respectively. The deliveries will commence in spring 2024, and the customers can choose from various options and accessories to personalize their new MINI. The new models are expected to be in high demand, representing the last chance to own a gas-powered MINI Cooper before the electric revolution.
