Posted in car review

#11 Mini Copper Series – Ultimate fun in a small package

 Published Date: 03/07/2020
The Mini Cooper’s story begins in 1959 where an automaker from England called British Leyland launched a never seen before boxy subcompact coupe. The car, christened Mini, had a front mounted transverse engine and a space efficient front-wheel-drive layout.

Mini Cooper Series 

The great layout allowed for 80 percent of the car to be free for use by passengers and their luggage. The original Mini was affordable, stylish, fun to drive and easy to park anywhere. The Mini and sportier Mini Cooper S quickly achieved an icon status around the world. The original Mini continued to be produced from 1959 to 2000.

Original Mini concept 

From 2000 onwards the Mini Cooper franchise was acquired by BMW who, in 2002, resurrected the brand. The 2002 Mini Cooper (second generation model) brought with it a blend of classic British car-heritage with precise German engineering. The 2002 model bowed out in 2006 to a model that continued the success of the original Mini.

Four generations of an icon 

It has been eight great years since the 2006 Mini Cooper was launched. BMW has finally introduced an all-new fourth generation Mini Cooper, which improves on all aspects of the previous generation model. For the first time ever the iconic car will be available as a three door (Mini Cooper 3) and a five door (Mini Cooper 5) version.

Distinct front look 

Design
The all-new Mini Cooper’s design reflects these historical roots as well as an evolutionary refinement of the modern vehicle concept. The hallmark Mini Cooper proportions have been preserved but the car’s dimensions have increased slightly.

Dynamic wedge shape 

Traditional design features such as the hexagonal contour of the radiator grille; the side indicator surrounds, the circular headlights, the upright rear light clusters and the black margin around the bottom edge of the body are visible. The all-new Mini Cooper features a dynamic wedge shape visible from the side. The body, glass surface and roof on top are clearly separated from one another in visual terms.

LED Headlamps

The glass surface with the dark body columns forms a harmonious cover extending across the entire automobile. The wide wheelbase and short overhangs emphasise the Mini Cooper’s body more strikingly as it sits powerfully on top of the wheels. The designers have managed to integrate the two extra doors on the larger Mini Cooper 5, without ruining the striking looks of the Mini Cooper 3.

Rear LED lights 

The S variant of both models features a radiator grille with a honeycomb pattern, an additional opening in the bonnet, brake air ducts integrated in the lower air inlets and a separate rear apron with exhaust tailpipes arranged at the centre. In addition to the side scuttle elements, the radiator grille of this model variant now also bears an “S” logo with chrome surround.

Mini Cooper S 5 Door 

Performance
The all-new Mini 3 and Mini 5 are powered by petrol and diesel power units. The entry level 3-cylinder diesel unit on the Mini Cooper D 3 and 5 has an output of 85 kW/116 hp. Torque is rated at 270 Nm while top speed is rated at 205 km/h. 0 to 100 takes 9.2 seconds while fuel consumption is rated at 3.8 litres per 100 kilometres.

Most powerful mini engine for  Cooper S variants 

The Mini Cooper 3 and 5’s mid-range petrol unit, a 1.5-litre 3-cylinder engine, has an output of 100 kW/136 hp and 220 Nm of torque. The power unit allows for an acceleration time of 0 to 100 km/h in 7.8 seconds. Top speed is 210 km/h while fuel consumption is rated at 4.6 litres per 100 kilometres. The performance themed Mini Cooper S 3 and 5 come equipped with a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder engine with a peak output of 141 kW/192 hp.

Mini Cooper S 3 Door 

The power unit churns out 280 Nm of torque. 0 to 100 km/h takes 6.8 seconds. The fuel consumption rating is a pocket friendly 5.8 litres per 100 km. Paired with the engines is a 6-speed manual or 6-speed Steptronic transmission. The optional Steptronic sports transmission has other extras for better response.

First series produced mini 

Interior
Precise lines and material combinations highlight the orientation towards driving fun and a premium interior ambience. The horizontal structure of the cockpit and the circular or oval contours of key features such as air outlets, instruments and door trim elements are classic design components which take on a more sophisticated and high-quality form in the all-new Mini 3 and 5.

Cockpit 

The hallmark of the interior is an 8.8-inch TFT display. The screen displays shows operating feedback for vehicle functions, air conditioning, infotainment and communication. The infotainment system is controlled by a new controller in the centre console based on BMW’s iDrive system. The instrument cluster on the steering column displays road speed, engine speed and fuel level on vertically arranged circular dials. Standard keyless entry allows the driver to start the car by pressing the toggle-type start/stop button located in the middle of the centre console. 

Three rear seats on the Mini Cooper 5 Door 

Increased interior space and a wide range of clever details make for further advancements in the area of functionality. The rear backrest with a 60: 40 split is not only foldable, its tilt angle can be adjusted too. Numerous cup holders and storage facilities make it easy to take drinks and travel items along in the car. With 72 mm of extra wheelbase, the all-new Mini Cooper 5 Door offers increased legroom and also allows for the inclusion of three seats.

Spacious boot 

The all-new Mini Cooper 5 Door has a boot space volume of 278 litres, which is 67 litres more compared to the Mini 3 Doors boot. Seats in a fabric/leather combination and leather finish are offered as an alternative to the standard fabric version. The all-new Mini Cooper S 3 and 5 Door are fitted with sports seats as standard.

Rear design 

Verdict

The second most influential car in the world continues to offer a sporty and fun thrill in a small package. Though the new model has considerably grown compared to its first generation model, the traditional Mini qualities are still retained. With the larger Mini Cooper 5 door, the whole family can enjoy the thrills of the Mini Cooper 3. New or used the Mini Cooper remains one of the most satisfying and fun compact cars money can buy.