Instantly Recognizable as a MINI, Yet With Numerous Revisions

"While retaining the design that makes it instantly recognizable as a MINI from any angle, we've actually incorporated a variety of changes," explains Ikuo Ikuno, Product Manager for the MINI Division, regarding the latest updates.

One of these is the adoption of the new MINI logo design, reflecting the brand's updated identity. The logos on the front, rear, steering wheel, and remote key have transitioned from their previous, slightly three-dimensional form to a flat design, aligning with the latest trends.

Next, the taillights have been redesigned. They feature a motif inspired by the Union Jack, the British flag, with an asymmetrical design. This likely draws inspiration from the taillights of the 'MINI Superleggera Vision,' unveiled at the Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este in 2014.

The headlamps have also been updated. The driving lamps illuminate along their edges, but previously, their lower sections were interrupted by the turn signals.

However, in the new model, they now illuminate as a continuous, circular band. When the turn signals are activated, these driving lamps flash orange.

Mr. Ikuno states, "This is a significant change for MINI.

If you look at the interior, you'll notice that we've incorporated circular designs in various places, including the large circular navigation display on the center panel.

The circle is a key design motif for MINI," he explains.

Adoption of 7-Speed DCT

Inside, the trim surface in front of the passenger seat has been modified. As an option, an illuminated interior surface featuring the Union Jack design is now available. This can also change color in sync with the interior's ambient lighting.

In terms of options, the MINI Yours Customised program has been introduced. This allows users to design four parts—the aforementioned illuminated interior surface, door sill plates, small side scuttles (at the side marker location), and curtain lamps—using the internet.

Here, Mr. Ikuno notes, "By adding your preferred text or selecting patterns, you can create a unique part that is one-of-a-kind for each customer."

Incidentally, apart from the illuminated interior surface, these parts are also available for MINI models other than the new one. "We are currently preparing for their release and expect to unveil them soon," he added.

In the drivetrain, the transmission has been changed from a torque converter automatic to a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (for gasoline models, excluding the John Cooper Works).

This change "achieves a direct driving feel while minimizing shift shock, further enhancing the joy of driving a MINI," he says. Concurrently, the shift lever has been updated to an electronic control type, providing "a more premium feel, akin to that of a luxury car."

Enhanced Connectivity Features

In recent times, connectivity has evolved to the point where vehicles can communicate with the internet to provide various services. For MINI, the 'MINI Connected' functionality has been strengthened in the new models. The key features include the following six.

The SOS Call function automatically transmits accident information to a call center in the event of a severe collision, such as airbag deployment. Details like the number of occupants are instantly sent, allowing for emergency services or police to be dispatched if necessary.

This service can also be utilized for accidents where airbags do not deploy, or in situations where emergency services need to be called for others nearby.

Teleservices transmit data accumulated in the vehicle's control unit to the authorized dealer periodically as maintenance information. Based on this, the dealer's service representative contacts the driver regarding necessary maintenance.

In other words, "customers no longer need to worry about their car's condition, as they will always be contacted by their designated dealer when maintenance is required. It's a convenient service," he explains.

Next is the Driver Support Desk. According to Mr. Ikuno, "For example, if you want to go to an Italian restaurant in a certain area but don't know its location, you can simply call an operator from the car, and they will find the place or input it into the navigation system.

Essentially, the operator finds the location on your behalf and sends the information to your car. You then only need a few clicks on the controller to set the destination and start driving."

MINI Online utilizes an in-car communication module, allowing users to browse and search for the latest news and weather forecasts via the control display. For news, an audio read-aloud function is also available for listening while driving.

MINI Connected, an app for smartphones (compatible with iPhone only), allows users to view the car's status, check and remotely lock the vehicle, and even send destinations to the car in advance.

Furthermore, if you enter an appointment and location in your iPhone's calendar, the system calculates the necessary travel time and notifies you of the optimal departure time. While this feature is not yet fully complete, it is scheduled to be available on the App Store between July and August.

Finally, there's Apple CarPlay and wireless charging. Apple CarPlay is available as an option, and with the latest iPhone 8 or iPhone X, you can simply place your smartphone on the wireless charging pad located inside the center armrest to begin charging.

In conclusion, Mr. Ikuno summarized, "The design is now more distinctly MINI, and with the new transmission, drivers can experience our signature go-kart feeling even more intensely. Furthermore, the enhanced connectivity features will provide drivers with greater peace of mind and convenience."

Pricing for the new MINI ranges from ¥2.38 million for the 3-door ONE 6MT to ¥4.50 million for the JCW. For the 5-door, prices start at ¥2.71 million for the ONE 7DCT up to ¥4.07 million for the SD. The Convertible models range from ¥3.73 million for the standard model to ¥5.23 million for the JCW.