MINI Korea has officially launched the new MINI Cooper S 3-door model in Korea, combining the distinctive MINI character with modern sensibilities. This is the fourth generation of the model, the first in 10 years since the 2014 model. The new MINI Cooper S 3-door is the fourth model to be completely revised since 2014, and the first in a decade. It has been reimagined to become a more sensuous premium model with a reinterpretation of MINI's iconic design, an exhilarating driving experience characterised by a go-kart feeling, and a revolutionary digital experience.
In the fourth generation of the new MINI family, the 'Cooper' designation no longer refers to the engine specification, but to the MINI three- and five-door and convertible model range.
The new MINI Cooper is a modern interpretation of key elements inherited from the classic Mini from 1959, with a minimalist design that is at once the most MINI of all time, but with a fresh new appeal.
The exterior features distinctive body proportions, while the body surfaces are smoothed out for a more streamlined and refined look. At the front, the model's distinctive round headlights and contoured octagonal grille emphasise MINI's iconic design. At the rear, the rear lights retain the Union Jack shape of the British flag, continuing MINI's unique design heritage, while a new black handle strip running between the rear lights creates a more stylish rear end.
The interior is also stripped down to the essentials, maximising the minimalist feel. In keeping with the heritage of the classic Mini, the MINI toggle bar is stripped down to just the main buttons, providing intuitive access to key driving functions. In the centre of the dashboard, a 240mm diameter circular OLED display creates a high-tech ambience and integrates the instrument cluster, navigation, climate control and in-car infotainment.
In addition, the interior and exterior of the new MINI is packed with unique features that allow the driver to personalise their experience. The MINI Signature LED Lights, which can be selected in three different modes, and the MINI Experience Mode, which offers seven different concepts for display graphics and interfaces, ambient projection on the dashboard, driving and function sounds, and more, create an immersive driving experience.
The new MINI Cooper offers a digital experience like never before. For starters, it is equipped with the latest operating system, MINI Operating System 9, which enables T-MAP-based MINI navigation, in-car gaming, video streaming, third-party apps and more. A range of connected features including MINI Digital Key Plus, personalised wallpapers for the circular OLED display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also available for added convenience.
The list of advanced driver assistance features that make driving safe and enjoyable has also been enhanced. For starters, all models come standard with Driving Assistant with Forward Collision Warning, Pedestrian Alert and Lane Departure Warning; Park Assist with Park Assist and Reverse Assist; LED headlights with High Beam Assist; 2-zone automatic climate control; Comfort Access; and heated seats.
Depending on the trim, it also adds advanced safety and convenience features such as Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go and Lane Keeping Assist, Park Assist Plus with Surround View and Remote 3D View, and a panoramic glass sunroof that provides a high sense of openness.
The new MINI Cooper S 3-Door is powered by a in-line four-cylinder 2.0-litre petrol turbo engine with a maximum output of 204 hp and a maximum torque of 30.6 kg-m, mated to a Steptronic 7-speed double-clutch automatic transmission. The acceleration time from rest to 100 km/h is 6.6 seconds.
Meanwhile, the new MINI Cooper S will be available in a single trim, the Fablet. It is priced at £48.1 million.
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Photo MINI Korea