The latest generation of MINI’s have been officially unveiled this week.  As you would expect from MINI, the exterior changes are minimal; when such an iconic design has been so successful for decades you don’t change anything that doesn’t need changing.  However, there is still plenty here for us to report on.

The Hatch, Convertible and Clubman have all been updated with the most obvious external change being new lower front bumpers.  As we have previously reported, these have been changed to incorporate functional air-intakes to cool the front brakes.  There are also redesigned fog lamps and a larger deformation zone will improve pedestrian protection.  The familiar MINI headlights now include an optional feature that will follow the angle of the steering wheel meaning that MINI will now literally be able to see around coners!  The rear lights are now LED and will visibly pulse if braking is applied heavily.

The interior of the latest MINI’s has also been redesigned and silver plastic has been replaced by matte black.  There are also additional upholstery and fascia options plus new interior colour lines available to trim the doors.  The integrated MINI Connect system will be available as an optional extra; integrating bluetooth, satnav, Google and Apple iPhone functionality  into the redesigned centre console.

As previously explained, both the Cooper and Cooper S will be getting new engines.  The Cooper will now have map-regulated oil pump which will help reduce fuel consumption by an average 3%.  Power will rise to 122bhp.  The Cooper S will retain the same level of fuel consumption and CO2 levels as the current model, but thanks to the new fully variable valve train power will rise to a meaty 182bhp.  These changes will also be incorporated into the next generation high-performance JCW models.

MotoringFile has an in-depth article on the new MINI’s here.