The all-new Mini range has arrived in Australia, priced from $26,650.
As we know from Europe, the all-new Mini is larger, boasts extra technology and introduces new three-cylinder engines.
And the extra good news is prices are down – by $5,000 for the Mini Cooper, by $3,750 for the Cooper S and by $3,000 for the Cooper D - although the entry level ($25,600) Mini Ray model has been dropped.
Sitting on a new platform, size is up in every dimension for the all-new Mini – 98mm longer overall, 44mm wider, 7.0mm higher and the wheelbase has been extended by 28mm. Front track is 42mm wider and the rear track is 34mm wider.
Styling is an updated translation of the original and pleasingly proportions have been maintained. You’ll also notice the new grilles, new side indicator surrounds, circular headlights, black highlights around the lower edges of the body and upright rear lights.
Cooper and Cooper D models are identified by white aluminium highlights and a high-gloss black bumper strip. Naturally Cooper S gets some sporty touches – honeycomb pattern grille, unique rea apron, bonnet scoops and brake ducts among them.
Inside is where you notice the extra dimensions shoulder room and foot space is enhanced up-front while those in the rear also benefit. Luggage space is up by 51-litres to 211-litres.
Lots of changes under the bonnet too with an all-turbocharged lineup of petrol and diesel engines including the debut of three-cylinder designs.
And underneath is that new chassis and revised electromechanical power steering.
The local lineup is:
Mini Cooper (100kW/220Nm, turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine)
Mini Cooper D (85kW/270Nm, turbocharged three-cylinder diesel engine)
Mini Cooper S (141kW/280Nm, turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine).
Prices are:
Mini Cooper $26,650
Mini Cooper D $31,800
Mini Cooper S $36,950
