As a company with only five models in its current line-up, it’s always an important moment when MINI comes with major updates for its cars.
2018 marks the upgrading of the three-door and five-door Hatch and Convertible models – all of which come with the same base design and mostly the same equipment.
But what has changed with the three refreshed models and how have the changes affected the line-up? We take a look…
New design features
For many, the MINI is a statement piece thanks to its wide range of customisable options and designer features. The 2018 Hatch and Convertible models now come with more additional choices than ever before, including the standout Union Jack LED rear lights, more MINI Yours add-ons and a new, more simplified MINI logo for the badging and mirror-mounted logo projector. MINI has also introduced extra colour options, leather trim options and added interior surface choices for more personalisation than ever before.
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New engines and driving experience
MINI has introduced a new engine for the lower-end One models, which has reduced in size from a 1.6-litre to a 1.5-litre three-cylinder engine and actually comes with more torque and more efficient turbocharging. The whole range has also been on a diet, with the weight coming down for each version.
A new seven-speed automatic transmission has been added for the One and three Cooper models, which joins the eight-speed automatic and six-speed manual transmissions. MINI claims that these changes help make the Hatch and Convertible models more fun to drive.
A refreshed range of equipment
As with most refreshed models, new accessories have been added to increase appeal and customisation. Those additions include a new multifunctional steering wheel that is paired to a 6.5-inch infotainment touchscreen display as part of the standard equipment list, with Bluetooth also coming with every model. The Visual Boost radio and navigation still come as optional extras.
MINI are also fitting LED headlights with Matrix function on high beam, which means dazzling other drivers won’t be a problem and the road ahead of you will be illuminated properly. The light units are split into four sections and any of those segments can be switched off to prevent other drivers getting light shone in their eyes – with cameras detecting where the light is going.
A wireless charging dock can also be fitted as an optional extra, which owners of compatible smartphones can use while connecting their phone to the infotainment system via Bluetooth.
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