The MINI Cooper is one of the most iconic cars in history, with a loyal fan base and a distinctive design. But the brand is not resting on its laurels, as it has recently unveiled the new generation of the MINI Cooper and the MINI Cooper S, with gasoline engines that offer more performance, efficiency, and fun.
The new models are part of the most significant transformation for MINI since its founding 65 years ago, as the brand aims to offer a diverse range of vehicles that cater to different needs and preferences. The new MINI Cooper and the MINI Cooper S are the latest additions to the new MINI family, which also includes the electric MINI Cooper E and MINI Cooper SE, and the upcoming MINI Countryman EV.
Exterior design
The new MINI Cooper and the MINI Cooper S retain the classic proportions and the striking front grille that gives the car its distinctive face. However, they also introduce some new elements that enhance the car鈥檚 appearance and aerodynamics, such as the redesigned headlights, taillights, bumpers, and air intakes.
The new models also offer more customization options, with four roof colors, a three-color gradient roof finish, and a range of 16-inch to 18-inch aluminum rims. The new MINI Cooper S also features a sporty rear spoiler, a chrome exhaust tip, and a red S badge on the grille and the tailgate.
The new MINI Cooper and the MINI Cooper S are available in three trim levels: Essential, Signature, and Favoured. Each trim level offers different exterior features, such as LED headlights, fog lights, roof rails, and body-colored mirror caps.
Interior design
The interior of the new MINI Cooper and the MINI Cooper S focuses on minimalist design and new materials. The dashboard, the center console, and the door panels have been simplified and refined, with fewer buttons and switches. The circular infotainment display, a signature element of the MINI, has been upgraded to a 9.4-inch OLED screen with touch and voice control.
The new models also feature the MINI Operating System 9, which is the latest version of the brand鈥檚 software that integrates navigation, entertainment, communication, and vehicle settings. The system also offers the new MINI Experience Modes, which allow the driver to choose between different ambient lighting, sound, and display settings depending on the mood and the driving situation.
The new MINI Cooper and the MINI Cooper S also offer a wide range of digital functions, such as wireless charging, smartphone integration, head-up display, digital instrument cluster, and driver assistance systems. Some of these functions are standard, while others are optional or part of the packages.
The new models also offer more comfort and space, with new seats, steering wheel, and gear selector. The trunk capacity has been increased to 7.4 cubic feet, and can be expanded to 28.2 cubic feet by folding the rear seats.
Engine and performance
The new MINI Cooper and the MINI Cooper S are powered by two efficient gasoline engines with a choice of three or four cylinders. For US customers, the new models come exclusively with 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engines with different outputs and performance levels.
The new MINI Cooper has an output of 154 hp and a maximum torque of 170 lb-ft, which enables it to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 7.7 seconds. The new MINI Cooper S has an output of 201 hp and a maximum torque of 221 lb-ft, which enables it to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 6.6 seconds.
Both models are equipped with a suspension and damping system designed for agile handling and a smooth ride. The new models also feature the MINI Driving Modes, which allow the driver to adjust the engine, transmission, steering, and stability settings depending on the driving preference and the road conditions.
The new models also offer improved fuel efficiency and lower emissions, thanks to the use of advanced technologies, such as direct injection, variable valve control, and twin-scroll turbocharging. The new MINI Cooper has an estimated fuel economy of 28 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway, while the new MINI Cooper S has an estimated fuel economy of 26 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway.
Price and availability
The new MINI Cooper and the MINI Cooper S with gasoline engines are expected to arrive at US dealers in early fall 2024. The prices for the new models are as follows:
- The new MINI Cooper Essential starts at $23,750
- The new MINI Cooper Signature starts at $26,750
- The new MINI Cooper Favoured starts at $29,750
- The new MINI Cooper S Essential starts at $28,750
- The new MINI Cooper S Signature starts at $31,750
- The new MINI Cooper S Favoured starts at $34,750
These prices do not include the destination and handling fee of $850. The prices may also vary depending on the options and packages the customer selects.
Comparison with competitors
The new MINI Cooper and the MINI Cooper S with gasoline engines face some tough competition in the market, as there are many other small cars that offer similar or better features, performance, and value. Some of the main competitors of the new models are:
- The Honda Civic: The Honda Civic is one of the most popular and reliable compact cars in the market, with a spacious interior, a smooth ride, and a range of engine options. The 2024 Honda Civic starts at $22,000 and offers a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine with 158 hp and a 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine with 180 hp. The Honda Civic has an estimated fuel economy of 31 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway.
- The Volkswagen Golf: The Volkswagen Golf is another iconic and versatile hatchback with a refined design, a high-quality cabin, and a fun-to-drive character. The 2024 Volkswagen Golf starts at $24,000 and offers a 1.4-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine with 147 hp and a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine with 228 hp. The Volkswagen Golf has an estimated fuel economy of 29 mpg in the city and 39 mpg on the highway.
- The Hyundai Veloster: The Hyundai Veloster is a sporty and quirky hatchback with a unique three-door layout, a stylish exterior, and a peppy performance. The 2024 Hyundai Veloster starts at $19,000 and offers a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine with 147 hp and a 1.6-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine with 201 hp. The Hyundai Veloster has an estimated fuel economy of 27 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway.
The table below summarizes some of the key features and specifications of the 2024 MINI Cooper and the MINI Cooper S and their competitors:
| Feature | MINI Cooper | MINI Cooper S | Honda Civic | Volkswagen Golf | Hyundai Veloster |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $23,750 - $29,750 | $28,750 - $34,750 | $22,000 - $29,000 | $24,000 - $30,000 | $19,000 - $29,000 |
| Engine | 2.0-liter 4-cylinder | 2.0-liter 4-cylinder | 2.0-liter 4-cylinder or 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder | 1.4-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder or 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder | 2.0-liter 4-cylinder or 1.6-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder |
| Output | 154 hp | 201 hp | 158 hp or 180 hp | 147 hp or 228 hp | 147 hp or 201 hp |
| Torque | 170 lb-ft | 221 lb-ft | 138 lb-ft or 177 lb-ft | 184 lb-ft or 258 lb-ft | 132 lb-ft or 195 lb-ft |
| 0-60 mph | 7.7 seconds | 6.6 seconds | 8.2 seconds or 7.5 seconds | 8.4 seconds or 5.9 seconds | 8.6 seconds or 6.4 seconds |
| Fuel economy | 28/38 mpg | 26/36 mpg | 31/40 mpg | 29/39 mpg | 27/34 mpg |
Conclusion
The 2024 MINI Cooper and the MINI Cooper S with gasoline engines are the latest models from the brand that aims to offer a diverse range of vehicles that suit different needs and preferences. The new models retain the classic design and the go-kart feeling of the MINI while also introducing new features, technologies, and engines that improve the car鈥檚 performance, efficiency, and user experience.
The new models also offer more customization options, with different trim levels, roof colors, and wheel designs. The new models are expected to arrive at US dealers in early fall 2024, with prices ranging from $23,750 to $34,750, depending on the model and the options.
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