Photograph by Siddharth Dadhe
The evolution of the Mini is much like observing the X-ray of an elephant or an obese person: the underlying structure remains the same, but the exterior has expanded significantly. At its core, the car still retains its original character—the engine, the fundamental design—but it has clearly grown over the years. This expansion is evident in the size of the doors, exterior trim, and overall dimensions. However, this change has been for a good reason. The modern version prioritises safety, which is crucial in today’s automotive world, and that inevitably demands a larger, sturdier build.
If we were to take the original first-generation car and subject it to today’s crash safety tests, it would likely crumple like a crushed soda can. While many may lament how much this vehicle has grown in size, it’s essential to acknowledge that this growth is largely a response to modern safety standards and consumer demands. The extra bulk is packed with reinforcements, safety features, and modern technology designed to protect its occupants, something the original car could never have offered.
Despite this increase in size, the car still holds its charm. When parked next to a modern crossover or SUV, it remains noticeably compact and retains its iconic shape. In a world of bloated vehicles, the car still manages to turn heads, embodying that distinct style and heritage which has always made it unique. It’s a car that has evolved with the times while preserving its unmistakable character.
Driving through the streets of Pune was quite the experience. Although Pune is relatively small compared to larger metropolitan cities, where exotic cars are more common, the car still stands out as something special. While it may not come with the extravagant price tag of high-end exotic cars, the way it grabs attention certainly puts it in that category. From rickshaw drivers to scooter-riding aunties, and college kids alike, everyone pauses, glances, and often reaches for their smartphones to snap a photo. It’s a genuine head-turner, a car that captures curiosity and admiration wherever it goes.
In today’s Instagram and social media-driven world, few cars can demand attention quite like this one. Whether cruising down the road or parked at a café, it’s the perfect car for those looking to make an impression in the selfie era. There’s something inherently photogenic about its quirky yet stylish design, making it an ideal subject for Instagram feeds and social media stories. The Mini doesn’t just blend into the backdrop—it becomes the star, drawing eyes and cameras alike, effortlessly standing out in the digital age.
Stepping inside the cabin, the unique charm of this car continues. The focal point is the circular 9.4-inch OLED touchscreen that dominates the centre console. Almost all of the car’s functions are controlled through this stylish infotainment system, which isn’t just visually striking but also highly functional. The interface is smooth and intuitive, co-developed by Samsung, and it feels very much like operating an Android device. The minimal design, user-friendly controls, and similarity to a smartphone make the driving experience feel modern and tech-savvy, perfectly in tune with the connected world we live in.
It does take some time to get accustomed to the massive circular touchscreen display in the car, but once you do, it’s an experience like no other. The display offers more than just navigation and car settings—it’s an interactive centrepiece that elevates the driving experience. Tying back to the car’s social media appeal, They have gone the extra mile by including a built-in camera designed for in-car selfies. With features like burst mode for rapid snapshots and even short video clips, the car caters directly to the social media-savvy generation. It’s a fun, modern touch that lets the car literally capture moments for you—a feature that feels tailor-made for today’s selfie-driven culture.
Beyond the flashy touchscreen and built-in camera, this car also impresses with its audio setup, featuring a Harman Kardon sound system that delivers an excellent audio experience. However, what truly stands out is a hidden Easter egg within the infotainment system. When playing music via Bluetooth, a four-finger swipe across the screen activates a virtual record player, complete with a spinning vinyl and the track’s title displayed. You can even ‘scratch’ the virtual record, just like an old-school DJ. This quirky, nostalgic touch is a nod to the golden age of music, adding a layer of playful innovation that makes the Mini feel not just like a car, but a vibrant blend of the past and the future.
The exterior design of this iconic car is where its quirky charm truly shines. Starting with the iconic round LED headlights that have graced several generations, it’s a nod to tradition, but with a fresh twist. The real change comes at the rear, with the new triangular-shaped tail lights, each still featuring the distinctive Union Jack silhouette—a subtle yet unmistakable tribute to its British roots. The floating roof design remains a staple, and at just one glance, you instantly know you’re looking at a Mini. The Cooper S rides on 17-inch alloy wheels as standard, with an optional upgrade to 18-inch alloys for those seeking a bit more flair.
What BMW has achieved with this car over the past 25 years is remarkable. They’ve managed to keep this modern-retro aesthetic alive and evolving without losing the essence of what makes the Mini so iconic. This current iteration nails that balance perfectly. As I mentioned earlier, it’s still very much a head-turner, especially in a market like India, where its distinct design stands out even more. The Mini continues to draw eyes, not just for its nostalgic appeal but for how it seamlessly blends classic design with contemporary touches.
The car is renowned for its exceptional driving experience, and a major contributor to this is its powerful engine. Under the hood lies a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine that delivers an impressive 201 bhp and 30.59 kgm of torque. One of the highlights of this engine is the audible whine of the turbo spooling when the windows are down and you press the accelerator—an exhilarating sound that adds to the driving experience. The engine itself is lively and responsive, encouraging you to push it hard, which makes for a fun and engaging drive.
Power from the engine is channelled through a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission that sends it to the front wheels. While the gearbox is quick and efficient, the absence of paddle shifters is a notable drawback, especially for a car in this segment. Paddle shifters, particularly steering-mounted ones, would have elevated the driving experience even further, providing more control and engagement for enthusiasts.
In terms of performance, the Mini is no slouch. It accelerates from 0 to 100 kph in just around 6.6 seconds, which is impressively quick for a car of its size. This combination of power, handling, and acceleration makes the car a thrill to drive, living up to its reputation as a small car with a big performance. It delivers a fuel efficiency of around 14-16 kpl, which is respectable for a performance-oriented car, balancing fun driving dynamics with reasonable mileage for everyday use.
The driving experience is where the Mini truly excels. It offers several driving modes, but my personal favourite is the ‘Go-Kart’ mode. Not only does it provide a more engaging and responsive feel, but it also adds a unique retro touch to the centre display. The screen shifts to a sleek black background with a red dial, evoking a nostalgic vibe that enhances the driving experience. With the cluster positioned centrally and a heads-up display in front, your focus remains entirely on the road, and in Go-Kart mode, the car’s inputs tighten up, from acceleration to steering, making the drive feel more direct and immersive.
When it comes to handling, the Mini leans toward the stiff side, especially on uneven Indian roads. This stiffness, though expected from a performance-oriented vehicle, can make potholes and rough surfaces quite jarring. While this isn’t the full John Cooper Works edition, the Mini still rides firm, and you have to be cautious on imperfect roads. However, the real magic happens when you hit smooth, sweeping corners. The Mini grips the road confidently, allowing you to take turns with precision. Even on highways, despite its compact size, the car feels stable, and the handling remains sharp, making lane changes effortless and the overall driving experience solid.
The Mini is undeniably a lifestyle product, and its price tag of Rs. 44.9 lakh reflects that exclusivity. For a car of its size, it may seem like a hefty sum, but it’s essential to view the Mini as you would a designer handbag or a luxury purchase—something you buy not out of necessity but as a reward to yourself. It’s a decision driven more by heart than by logic, appealing to those who value individuality and style over practicality.
The Mini stands in a league of its own, with very little direct competition. In today’s age, where social media thrives on capturing attention, the Mini is the perfect tool to turn heads and leave a lasting impression. It’s more than just a car—it’s a statement, a symbol of personal expression that’s hard to overlook on the road. If standing out and embracing a unique driving experience is what you’re after, the Mini is the ultimate choice.
