Having showcased the ICE version of the 2024 Cooper globally in March, Mini has now opened pre-bookings, and based on evidence from Mini India’s website, it seems like only the Cooper S is headed our way. The 2024 Cooper is available globally in two trims, and they differ in terms of the powertrain options. It also continues to be underpinned by the BMW UKL1 platform.
The Cooper S is likely to be the only one headed here, and it gets a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol unit paired to a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. This setup produces 201 bhp and 30.59 kgm of torque; 25.6 bhp and 2.03 kgm more than the previous car. The other trim is called Cooper C, which features a 1.5-litre unit with 153 bhp and 23.45 kgm of torque.
Design-wise, the combustion-engined 2024 Cooper isn’t very different from the EV, but you’ll still be able to tell the two apart. The first bit obviously being the grille, replacing the closed-off bits from the EV, along with tweaked DRL signatures for the headlights and tail lights. Unlike the EV, it also retains the pull-type door handles.
Once inside, you’ll notice the minimalist theme from the EV continues, with the 9-inch round screen taking centre stage, while keeping physical buttons to a minimum. The car maker wanted to go for a cleaner, clutter-free minimalist look. However, we’ll have to wait and see how customers react to the absence of a conventional instrument cluster.
How much will you have to shell out for the 2024 Mini Cooper S? Considering the outgoing model was priced at Rs 42.7 lakh (ex-showroom), we expect the newer car to command a slight premium when it eventually comes later in July. Ready with your cheque book, then?