Meet the new Mini Cooper.

    With two models, an all-new design, and a thoroughly modern interior, it’s gunning for the Fiat 500e that’s about to touch down in Australia.

    The new Mini Cooper will arrive Down Under in the third quarter of 2024, alongside its new Countryman big brother.

    Here are the headline figures:

    • The Mini Cooper E has a 135kW/290Nm electric motor.
      • The 0-100km/h sprint takes a claimed 7.3 seconds
      • Claimed range is 305 kilometres on the WLTP test cycle
    • The Mini Cooper SE has a 160kW/330Nm electric motor
      • The 0-100km/h sprint takes a claimed 6.7 seconds
      • Claimed range is 402 kilometres on the WLTP test cycle

    Mini hasn’t detailed battery capacities. We’ll update this story when they become available.

    Inside, the new Mini features a round OLED display on the dashboard running what the brand is calling OS 9.

    In a nod to the brand’s roots, you’re able to have an oversized digital speedometer and rev counter there, and you can use it to control media, climate, and the car’s main functions.

    As is the case in related BMW products, you’re able to talk to the car using “Hey Mini” voice commands to control all the vehicle’s major functions on the move.

    There’s a row of toggle switches lower down on the dashboard, as is the case in current models, but climate control is handled through the touchscreen. The transmission selector has been moved to free up more storage space between the seats,

    New ambient lighting, dashboard trim finishes, and materials feature throughout to drag the cutesy Mini design language we’ve come to know and love into a new era. There’s also a head-up display in front of the driver.

    As for the name? You’ll notice this is no longer the Mini Hatch, or the Mini Electric. Mini is calling three- and five-door hatches, along with the convertible the Cooper from now on, and removing it as an engine specification.

    Local pricing and specifications will be revealed closer to the local launch.

    Scott Collie

    Scott Collie is an automotive journalist based in Melbourne, Australia. Scott studied journalism at RMIT University and, after a lifelong obsession with everything automotive, started covering the car industry shortly afterwards. He has a passion for travel, and is an avid Melbourne Demons supporter.

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