2014 Mini Cooper S: First review

Over the years, Mini has successfully managed to retain the DNA of the ‘original’ Mini, and yet upgrade itself as per modern standards. The new Mini is no different. Yes, it still holds the design cues of the original Mini, somewhat, but underneath the 2014 Mini is a completely new car. Each component has been put under the microscope, re-analysed with the sole intention of optimising its function, performance and style. The exteriors of the car now befit a new larger oval-shaped grille that holds the registration plate, which is complimented with signature chrome touches. The new Mini Cooper S has LED Daytime Running rings alongwith LED lamps for both high as well as low beam. Much of the profile remains unchanged except for the S badging that makes its way to the front grille. The body of the new Mini Cooper S is also longer, wider and taller than its predecessor.

The wheelbase too has been extended by 28mm while the track width has gone up by 42mm at the front and 34mm at the rear. The larger proportions give the Cooper S a much more muscular and aggressive persona. In early 2012, we had reviewed the Mini Cooper convertible as well as the Mini Cooper S. Back then, we found the latter to be a little claustrophobic especially when seated at the back. This has changed in the new Mini thanks to its increased interior dimensions. The interiors are now more spacious and boast of increased shoulder room and larger footwells. The front seats have also been lengthened by 23mm for additional comfort.

Apart from space and comfort, the Mini Cooper S also gets refreshed interiors. The car now has a new instrument cluster in which speed, revs and fuel are displayed on vertically arranged circular dials. The centre console gets a four-line TFT display as standard, or an optional colour screen up to 8.8-inches displaying vehicle functions, infotainment, navigation etc. Keyless-go is now standard across the Mini hatch range. The funkiest feature in the new range of Minis is without a doubt the start/stop switch that is located right in the middle of the centre console and features a heartbeat illumination that pulses before the engine is started.

The new Mini Cooper S is equipped with the new Mini TwinPower Turbo Technology 1998cc four-cylinder engine that produces a max power of 191PS at 4,700-6,000rpm. The peak torque is rated at 280Nm between 1,250 to 4,750rpm. The outgoing model came with a 1.6-litre twin scroll turbocharged engine which produced 7PS lesser power than the current unit. There is also a considerable difference in the torque of the retiring engine which produced a torque of 240Nm, 40Nm less than the current unit. Mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, the new Mini Cooper S accelerates to 100kmph in just 6.8 seconds says BMW and boasts of a top speed of 230kmph.

Apart from the engine, the overall suspension setup has also been improved by installing a new single-joint spring strut axle at the front and a multi-link axle at the rear. To reduce Mini Cooper’s weight and enhance its rigidity without compromising on the ride and handling, the new car has been fitted with aluminum swivel bearings as well as axle supports and wishbones made of high-strength steel.

Overall, with the new Cooper S, Mini seems to have re-worked upon everything that could have been bettered. And despite the fact that Minis are premium hatch offerings that come with a hefty price tag, they have been reasonably popular. The new Mini Cooper S which we expect will only help take the brand forward in India is expected to come to our shores by October this year, carrying a price tag of around Rs 25 lakh.