Mini has launched the all-new fourth-generation Cooper S hatchback in India, marking the final combustion-engine iteration of this iconic model. Priced at Rs. 44.90 lakh ex-showroom, the new Mini Cooper S retains the classic design ethos of the original 1959 model while introducing modern upgrades and features. Deliveries of the new Cooper S are set to begin in September 2023, alongside the Countryman Electric. An all-electric Cooper S will also join the lineup later this year.
All about the new Mini Cooper S
Exterior Design of Mini Cooper S
The new Mini Cooper S builds on its trademark design themes with several notable updates:
- Headlights and Grille: The circular headlights now lack bezels, and a larger octagonal front grille enhances the front fascia.
- Chrome-Free Exterior: The design is free of chrome, with plastic cladding on the wheel arches and iconic bulging fenders.
- Tail-Lights: Redesigned with a triangular shape, connected by a black plastic band on the tailgate.
- Floating Roof Effect: Blacked-out pillars create a floating roof effect.
- Wheels: Standard 17-inch wheels, with 18-inch units available as an optional extra.
- Bumper Design: A cleaner front and rear bumper design, devoid of fog lamps and gaping air intakes.
Interior and Features of Mini Cooper S
The interior of the new Cooper S takes a minimalistic approach, emphasizing simplicity and sustainability:
- Minimalistic Design: Eliminated instrument cluster and neatly integrated AC vents.
- Central Controls: A single band of toggle controls replaces the cluttered stack of physical controls on the centre console.
- OLED Touchscreen: A 9.4-inch round OLED touchscreen serves as the hub for car-related settings, including HVAC controls. This runs on Mini’s latest Android-based operating system developed with Samsung.
- Sustainable Materials: A leather-free interior with plenty of textured surfaces adds a unique flair.
- Advanced Features: Heads-up display, electrically adjustable front seats, massage function for the driver’s seat, ambient lighting, Harman Kardon sound system, connected car tech, six airbags, level-1 ADAS suite, and an electronic parking brake.
Powertrain and Specifications
Under the hood, the new Cooper S boasts an updated powertrain:
- Engine: 2.0-litre, four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine producing 204hp and 300Nm, up from the previous 178hp and 280Nm.
- Transmission: 7-speed dual-clutch transmission driving the front wheels, with a 0-100kph sprint time of 6.6 seconds.
- Platform: Built on a heavily updated version of the outgoing model’s platform.
Future Prospects: Cooper Electric
The new Mini Cooper S will soon be joined by its electric sibling:
- All-Electric Variant: Set to launch by the end of 2024, the Cooper Electric is based on a born-electric platform, entirely distinct from the petrol iteration.
Conclusion
The fourth-generation Mini Cooper S represents the end of an era for the combustion-engine iteration of this beloved model. With its blend of classic design and modern features, the new Cooper S continues to uphold Mini’s legacy while paving the way for an exciting electric future. Deliveries begin in September 2023, marking the start of a new chapter for Mini enthusiasts in India.
