on air now
up next
Jeff Moloi
Very satisfying all round. The drive is as smooth as you like. Plenty of power. A comfortable 4 seater and fuel consumption of 6l per 100km. (6.3l combined urban and city) And with a modest price tag of R 595 000.00. What more could one ask for from an iconic vehicle that has won the hearts on many. Boot luggage space of between 210 to 725 litres, if the rear seats are down. I thoroughly enjoyed my time with the Mini Cooper, but I had to hand back the keys, rather reluctantly.
Exterior
Embodying the “less is more” design approach, the new MINI Cooper is all sleek lines, clean surfaces and balanced proportions. This Mini is a mini, meaning: It’s not upsized.
The fifth generation of the MINI Cooper stands for simplicity at its charismatic best. Typical MINI proportions evoke the brand's history. Together with the striking front grille, they give the new model its distinctive face. Minimalist design, digital innovations and an immersive user experience are the hallmarks of the interior.
Within the new model family, MINI designates the performance levels of its petrol engines for the MINI Cooper using the letter C and for the performance-enhanced model using the letter S. The attractive powertrain portfolio of the new three-door MINI is thus complemented by two efficient petrol engines with a choice of three or four cylinders. The brand's iconic go-kart feeling is brought to the road in the new generation MINI. The MINI Cooper's minimalist design is a combination of traditional brand values and impressive clarity.
The new MINI Cooper's captivating presence is defined by its iconic front design with short overhangs, octagonal front grille and round LED headlights.
Light me up!
In addition to the powerful, standard LED technology, optional cornering lights give you better side visibility plus there are three different light signatures to choose from.
The Perfect Urban Player
It’s MINI from any angle. But with a new aura for a new era. An agile, compact silhouette, longer wheelbase, and larger wheels lend it a more modern look. With a striking new triangular design, the rear lights provide an extra dose of individuality and charm.
New Style Rims.
The 16”-18” alloy wheels radiate confidence while reducing our carbon footprint thanks to their lightweight design and use of recycled aluminium.
A Warm Welcome
Customize your welcome and goodbye greeting to match your mood with three optional front and rear light signatures as well as a logo projection from both side mirrors.
Inside: Iconic as always!
Inside, the design is clean and focused, just like the original classic Mini. Whatever you require can be accessed through the OLED display, five toggle switches or optional Head-Up Display.
The iconic, 240 mm centre display in high-quality glass is both your instrument cluster and your on-board infotainment and assistance hub. It’s also the first circular OLED display in the world. Everything at your fingertips and so easy to use. Each MINI Experience Mode has its own distinctive design, ambient lighting, and soundscape so you can redefine your cockpit's look and feel whenever you like.
Hold me, Thrill me!
There are four distinct MINI design styles: Essential, Classic, Favoured, and JCW. Each offers unique features and tailored design details throughout.
Space is of the essence. If you drop the 60/40 split rear seats you get more room for your plans with up to 800 litres of cargo space – letting you take almost everything with you.
Driving Experience
It is available in two powerful variants: the MINI Cooper C with a 115 kW three-cylinder engine, and the MINI Cooper S powered by a 150 kW four-cylinder engine. This latest 3-door model captures the classic MINI driving experience. Inside, the minimalist cabin centres around a striking circular OLED display, new Vescin steering wheel, and toggle bar, creating an immersive user experience enhanced by customisable MINI Experience Modes. Advanced driver assistance systems and connectivity features, including the MINI Intelligent Personal Assistant, further elevate the driving experience. With a range of customisation options across four trim levels, the new MINI Cooper offers a truly personalised take on this iconic automotive legend.
Verdict
The fifth generation MINI Cooper three-door hatch stands for simplicity at its charismatic best, blending the brand's iconic design with innovative technology.
A smooth and comfortable ride. The Mini glides away at speeds of around 120kmph effortlessly. The distinct oval daylight running lights add to that Mini look. Plenty of space for four passengers. I was more than impressed with the fuel consumption of around 6l per 100km.
All in all, a good buy at R595 000
