Set for official September reveal
We’ve had our best look yet at the next-generation Mini hatchback after the electric version was spotted undisguised during a photoshoot in America.
The next Mini hatch is a major evolution when compared with the current car. It will no longer be known simply as the “Mini” or “Mini Hatch”, either, as the Cooper badge is being upgraded from a trim level to become the hatchback’s official model name for both petrol and pure-electric versions.
As before, there will also be Cooper S versions, and while the early glimpse pictured here is of a three-door model, expect a five-door variant to appear, too.
The design of new Mini Cooper seems to be evolution rather than revolution, although there’s a far smoother look than before. Familiar cues such as the large, round headlights with circular daytime running lights are present, as is the floating roof. This is in contrasting white in the pictures but will likely be available in a variety of styles courtesy of Mini’s wide-ranging personalisation options.
Also making a comeback is the body-coloured grille that first appeared with the current Mini Electric’s most recent facelift.
At the back, the Union Flag-style rear lights that were available in some markets have been restyled to be a more subtle nod to British heritage.
The interior hasn’t been revealed officially but previous spy shots of prototypes show that the large, circular central display that aped the central speedometer in the original Mini will return as a vast touchscreen, while the traditional bank of toggle switches are likely to make a reappearance below that.
New underpinnings
The most important changes to the Mini Cooper come under the skin, where all-new bespoke undepinnings are used. This has been co-developed with Chinese car maker Great Wall Motors and the electric models will be built in China while the petrol versions will be assembled in Oxford, UK. Recently announced investment in the Oxford plant should mean electric models will also be assembled there after a refit.
As before, Cooper and Cooper S models will offer different motor options. It’s expected that the pure-electric Cooper E will feature a 40kWh battery, while the Cooper S E will have a 54kWh unit. This means range figures of 200-250 miles depending on battery, which will be far better than the current generation Cooper S E manages.
Power outputs have yet to be confirmed, but expect the Cooper S to have a performance advantage over the Cooper. Mini has also hinted that an even faster John Cooper Works model could be on the drawing board.
New Mini line-up launch dates
The electric Cooper is gearing up for its official reveal in September at the IAA show in Munich, Germany, and is due on sale in May 2024. The petrol Mini Cooper will following that summer.
The arrival of the new electric Mini Cooper is the first of a wave of new models coming from the company.
The next-generation Countryman SUV arrives shortly after with petrol or electric power in a larger bodyshell, while a new crossover SUV is expected to slot into the line-up below the enlarged Countryman at a later date.
The Mini Clubman estate is due to be axed this year and is not being replaced.
- After reading about the 2024 electric Mini Cooper, you might be interested to read all about the Mini Aceman electric car concept
- Here are all the car makers’ electric car plans
- How does Mini’s first pure-electric car fit into everyday life? Read Will Dron’s reports on living with the Mini Electric
Keyword: All-new electric Mini spied during Los Angeles photoshoot