Gautam Sharma•31 May 2013
NEWS
SPY PICS: Third-gen MINI Cooper and Cooper S
Latest-generation premium hatchback grows in size and quality, but the styling remains evolutionaryMINI’s third-gen Cooper and Cooper S have been snapped by the ever-vigilant Automedia lenses ahead of the car’s expected world debut at September’s Frankfurt motor show.
The big news concerning the latest-gen model is that it will be offered in three- and five-door formats, with larger overall dimensions expected to contribute to more space inside the cabin.
Although the funky camouflage is designed to throw onlookers off the scent, it’s possible to discern the slightly longer front overhang and higher bonnet, both contributing to improved pedestrian crash protection.
That said, it’s clearly a case of more of the same as far as styling goes, as MINI’s crayon wielders haven’t deviated from the formula that has worked so well since the second-gen model launched in 2006.
There are significant changes inside, however, as the existing model’s iconic central speedometer has been tipped into the rubbish bin, making way for a more BMW-influenced set-up with the speedo and tacho nestled in the cluster behind the steering wheel.
Toggle switches and a vertical centre console allegedly remain, but quality will reportedly be taken up a notch to help justify the baby car’s premium pricing.
Underpinning the latest-gen MINI is BMW’s new UKL1 platform, which will supposedly deliver sharper handling and better ride quality. This architecture will also be used for the next-generation BMW 1 Series.
The existing MINI range is already highly diverse, but BMW has previously said the new model could spawn as many as 23 different variants.
The Cooper S (recognisable in these spy shots by its rear spoiler, bonnet scoop, dual exhausts and beefy alloys) is expected to gain propulsion from a four-cylinder turbo engine with around 150kW.
Meanwhile, entry-level MINIs will switch to turbocharged three-pot power (ditching the normally aspirated 1.6s) to improve fuel economy and emissions. Transmission choices are expected to include a six-speed manual gearbox, plus an eight-speed automatic.
– with Automedia
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Written byGautam Sharma
Our team of independent expert car reviewers and journalists
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