Revolutionizing Iconic Design: The Fourth-Gen Mini Cooper And Cooper S Unveiled
Mini has unveiled its fourth-generation Cooper and Cooper S globally, marking the final iteration of the sporty 3-door hatchbacks powered by internal combustion engines (ICE). While future models bearing the Cooper badge will solely be offered in fully-electric forms, the latest generation promises to captivate enthusiasts with its iconic design and performance prowess.
Expected to make its India debut later this year, the fourth-gen Mini Cooper is anticipated to be priced at around Rs 50 lakh (ex-showroom). The Cooper has been a primary revenue generator for Mini since its inception in 1959, with a subsequent relaunch in 2000. Alongside the classic three-door configuration, the fourth-gen Cooper range will include a 5-door variant, a soft-top convertible, and a John Cooper Works version, catering to diverse preferences and driving experiences.
Externally, Mini has retained the Cooper”s distinctive design language, maintaining its sporty and dynamic appeal. Key features such as the cab-forward stance, oval-shaped headlamps with LED DRLs, hexagonal front grille, and door-mounted ORVMs remain unchanged. However, subtle updates include blacked-out inserts for the grille and air intake, redesigned triangular LED taillamps featuring the iconic Union Jack impression, new dual-tone diamond-cut alloy wheels, and reprofiled front and rear bumpers. The Cooper S variant is distinguished by an “S” badge on the nose, signalling its enhanced performance credentials.
Inside the cabin, the fourth-gen Cooper continues the tradition of minimalist design, characterized by a two-tone dashboard and a prominent 9.4-inch OLED touchscreen at the center. The drive selector has been integrated into the toggle bar beneath the central screen, along with other essential controls. Notably, there is no traditional instrument panel, emphasizing a clean and uncluttered aesthetic. Feature highlights include LED Matrix headlights, heads-up display, wireless phone charging, ambient lighting, and a comprehensive suite of safety systems such as six airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control, and brake assist.
Powering the fourth-gen Cooper are two potent engine options tailored to deliver exhilarating performance. The entry-level Cooper C is equipped with a 1.5-liter three-cylinder turbo petrol engine producing 154 bhp and 230 Nm of torque. It accelerates from 0 to 100 kmph in just 7.7 seconds. On the other hand, the Cooper S variant boasts a robust 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo petrol unit, churning out 201 bhp and 300 Nm of torque. With a blistering 0-100 kmph time of 6.6 seconds, the Cooper S promises a thrilling driving experience. Both engine options are paired with automatic transmissions and feature a suspension and damping system optimized for agile handling and dynamic performance.
Overall, the fourth-gen Mini Cooper and Cooper S represent a harmonious blend of heritage and innovation, offering enthusiasts a compelling combination of iconic design, advanced technology, and exhilarating performance. As Mini prepares to transition towards electric mobility, the latest generation of the Cooper upholds the brand”s legacy of delivering driving excitement while embracing sustainable solutions for the future.
