A Name Unseen in the Classic MINI Era

MINI's seventh model has arrived. It's called the "Paceman." The name suggests "one who leads," or "a leader who guides others." Personifying cars is quite a MINI-esque approach...



However, this name is different from those before. It's a name that didn't exist during the Classic MINI era. As you know, MINI has not only revived body styles but also names. The original name for the "Crossover" in its home market is "Countryman." Considering this, perhaps the Paceman embodies such a meaning. Not just becoming a leader within its category, but a car that carves out a future within the MINI family.



Regardless, let's first unravel its concept.



From my perspective as a MINI watcher who has followed everything from concept cars to new models, I feel the development team had been planning this car's concept for quite some time. Although it was unveiled at the Detroit Auto Show in January last year, considering the hatchback-basedMINI CoupeandMINI Roadster, the first sketches must have been drawn over a year before that.

Furthermore, given the wide range of hatchback body variations, it would be unnatural to end the crossover line with just one model. Of course, extending the wheelbase could be considered, but it would be difficult to gauge customer acceptance for an even larger size, so this might be a good compromise.

Body Size Similar to the Crossover

Now, regarding the Paceman's variations, the lineup includes the "Cooper" and "Cooper S," along with the diesel engine "Cooper D" and "Cooper SD." Naturally, the Japanese specifications will only feature gasoline engines, so the former two are expected to be introduced. By the way, the "JCW (John Cooper Works)" is currently under development. Considering how enjoyable the Crossover JCW is, expectations are high.



As for the specifics, the body, which is a two-door coupe version of the Crossover, is 29mm lower due to the roofline and 10mm lower with the sports suspension, for a total reduction of 39mm in vehicle height. This results in a height of 1,518mm, clearing Japan's 1,550mm limit for multi-story parking garages. This is good news. However, other dimensions like overall length and wheelbase remain unchanged. Therefore, the body does not become shorter even with the coupe conversion.



Consequently, the rear seat comfort is not compromised. While the headroom is slightly reduced due to the sloping roofline, legroom is quite generous. Having used the Crossover as my daily driver, I can attest to this. Furthermore, the cargo space was not drastically reduced either.

A Ride Like a Water Strider

So, how does it feel behind the wheel? It's surprisingly sporty. While it doesn't offer the same level of excitement as the first time I drove the hatchback-based MINI Coupe, the go-kart feel is definitely present. This is partly due to the fact that the test car was a Cooper S. With 184 horsepower, this size is perfectly manageable. The same applies to the Crossover.



I was impressed with the ride comfort. The test car was equipped with standard 17-inch tires, but it was exceptionally flat and smooth. Road noise was suppressed, allowing the car to glide effortlessly over the surface, much like a water strider. This is clear evidence of meticulous tuning. The increased body rigidity likely contributes to the benefits experienced throughout the vehicle.



However, the power steering felt a bit too quick for my liking. It took some getting used to, and slight steering inputs caused noticeable yawing. But this was resolved by pressing the "Sport" button. Along with increased throttle response, the steering became heavier and offered a more refined feel. Personally, I prefer this setting.



Additionally, the subtle popping sound from the exhaust when lifting off the accelerator is a nice touch. This kind of theatricality is typical of MINI, effectively enhancing the driving enjoyment.



So, that's the Paceman. While it may be a niche model, it's certainly worth experiencing if you have the chance. Despite being based on the Crossover, its driving dynamics are not to be underestimated. I also appreciated its stance of not being confined by existing categories, which is undoubtedly a very MINI approach.


MINI Cooper S Paceman | MINI Cooper S Paceman

Body Dimensions | Length 4,115 x Width 1,786 x Height 1,522 mm
Wheelbase | 2,596 mm

Tread Front/Rear | 1,525 / 1,551 mm

Minimum Ground Clearance | 124 mm

Minimum Turning Radius | 5.8 m

Weight | 1,305 kg [1,330 kg]

Engine | 1,598cc Inline 4-cylinder DOHC Gasoline

Maximum Output | 135 kW (184 ps) / 5,500 rpm

Maximum Torque | 240 Nm / 1,600-5,000 rpm

Maximum Torque (Overboost) | 260 Nm / 1,700-4,500 rpm

Transmission | 6-speed Manual [6-speed Automatic]

Suspension Front/Rear | MacPherson Strut / Multi-link

Brakes Front/Rear | Ventilated Discs / Discs

Tires | 205 / 55 R17

0-100 km/h Acceleration | 7.5 sec [7.8 sec]

Maximum Speed | 217 km/h [212 km/h]

Fuel Consumption | 6.1 ℓ / 100 km [7.1 ℓ / 100 km] (European Cycle, Combined)

CO2 Emissions | 143 g/km [166 g / km]



*Figures in brackets are for the 6-speed automatic model.