Mini has unveiled the fourth-gen Cooper petrol 3-door hatchback, marking the final combustion-engined iteration of the iconic Mini. The hatchback, drawing visual inspiration from the original 1959 model, has been a cornerstone of the Mini lineup since BMW relaunched the brand in 2000. The new generation will encompass a 3-door variant, 5-door option, a soft-top convertible, and a high-performance John Cooper Works version.
Platform and Powertrain Highlights
The fourth-gen Cooper hatchback closely resembles the Mini Cooper EV visually, but it sits on a distinct platform and is mechanically unrelated to the EV iteration. While the electric model is built on a bespoke EV platform, the petrol variant represents a heavily updated version of its predecessor.
The new model retains the two turbo-petrol engines from the third generation but sees a notable increase in output. The entry-level Cooper C, powered by a 1.5-litre three-cylinder petrol engine, gains 20hp for a total of 156hp, resulting in a quicker 0-100kph time of 7.7 seconds. The Cooper S, equipped with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, gets a 25hp boost to 204hp, maintaining its 0-100kph time at 6.6 seconds. Interestingly, the Cooper S outpaces the top-tier electric Cooper SE (6.7 seconds). Both variants are offered exclusively with automatic gearboxes.
Interior Highlights
Inside the new petrol 3-door, a minimalist dashboard takes center stage, featuring an OLED infotainment display at the forefront. Mini claims this is the first round OLED touchscreen in a production car. Displaying critical information such as road speed and fuel economy, the screen also handles climate functions. The gear selector has been relocated, and various controls, including the handbrake button, turn-key starter, driving mode selector, and audio control dial, are conveniently grouped below the screen.
India Launch Timeline
While Mini currently offers the third-gen Cooper hatchback in India with petrol and electric powertrain options, the anticipation for the fourth-gen range’s debut in India is high, expected later this year. Simultaneously, the fourth-gen Cooper EV is confirmed for an India launch in Q3 2024.
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