Mini Cooper petrol range Oz timing confirmed

MINI will introduce its fifth-generation petrol-powered Cooper C and Cooper S three-door hatch range to Australia from the third quarter of this year, taking the battle to the likes of the Audi A1 (from $36,200 plus on-road costs) and Fiat 500 (from $27,220 + ORC).

Closely resembling the already announced Mini electric range, the Cooper C and Cooper S will arrive locally with two engine choices familiar to the outgoing line-up.

For the Cooper C we find a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol three-cylinder developing 115kW of power and 230Nm of torque, increases of 15kW and 10Nm respectively over the outgoing model.

The more athletic Cooper S utilises the same 2.0-litre turbo-petrol four-cylinder unit as before, now outputting 150kW of power and 300Nm of torque – or an increase of 9kW and 20Nm over the previous model.

Mini quotes a 0-100km/h acceleration time of 7.7 seconds for the Cooper C and 6.6 seconds for the Cooper S with respective fuel consumption numbers listed at 5.9 litres per 100km and 6.1L/100km.

Both models now come with adaptive damping.

In all, Mini is set to offer four trim grades in its new Cooper range – Essential, Classic, Favoured and JCW (John Cooper Works).

Updates over the outgoing range include many of the changes showcased in the recently debuted Mini EV. These included a new OLED central display with revised multimedia and voice recognition technology, an upgraded wireless charging pad (fitted where the gearshift used to be), new LED ambient cabin lighting, a smartphone-based digital ‘key’, and a Safe Exit function.

A panoramic roof is offered contributing to the cabin’s sense of space.

Cargo capacity is listed at 210 litres.

Wheel sizes range from 16- to 18 inches in diameter with all wheels now aerodynamically shaped. Paint colours may be paired with contrasting roof finishes, including a newly introduced Multitone finish.

“At Mini, Power of Choice means that in addition to all-electric Mini models, we also offer models such as the new Mini Cooper with a petrol engine,” said Head of Mini, Stefanie Wurst.

“The car is ideal for those people who want to drive a classic Mini three-door and appreciate the traditional performance and characteristic sound of a combustion engine.”

Mini Australia will announce full specifications and pricing closer to the local launch of the Cooper C and Cooper S in July of this year. The current model is available from $42,300 plus on-road costs.