2022 Mini Cooper gets a fresh new look
The Mini Cooper nameplate first came into the market back in 1961. Its quirky shape and style made it an instant consumer favourite. In 2014, the Mini Hardtop and Mini Convertible entered their third generation, which turned out to be perhaps the best generation that the Mini Cooper has had. But like all good things, a change is always needed and in 2022, the Mini Hardtop and Convertible models will be getting that change. The two- and four-door Cooper, Cooper S, JCW, and electric models will all come with newer sharper features that will immediately make it stand out from previous generations.
In terms of engines and transmissions, most have remained the same. The base Coopers will come with a 132kW turbocharged 1.5-litre three-cylinder engine. The S models get a 187kW turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine while the JCW models get a more powerful 226kW 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The Mini Cooper SE falls part of this new range and will get a 134kW electric motor that gets an EPA-estimated of 177km of range.
A six-speed manual transmission will come standard on most models, while a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic or eight-speed automatic transmission will be optional.
When it comes to exterior changes, many have been made. The front end will benefit from a new body-colour insert in the grille that will replace its previous black insert. The rear end has also gotten revised, as the S and JCW models get more aggressive-looking diffuser. The latest Mini will get a range of new customization options which include new colours and an option for a multicolour roof treatment. LED headlights will now come also standard across the range.
Inside, the Mini will come standard with a digital gauge cluster and an 8.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The dashboard layout has gotten subtly revised as it features new air vents. Satellite radio will come standard, as well as Apple CarPlay which is available once you have selected the option for navigation. Lane-departure warning will now be a standard driver-assist feature, while others, including adaptive cruise control, remain optional.
Pricing and a release date for the 2022 Mini Cooper have not been confirmed in South Africa.
Also worth a look: the MINI X1 and the MINI Cooper S.
FAQ
Q: What does the 2022 Mini Cooper cost in South Africa?
The 2022 Mini Cooper starts from around R450,000 for the base three-door model, with the Cooper S sitting at roughly R580,000 and the hot JCW variant pushing up to R720,000, though exact pricing varies depending on your chosen spec and dealer.
Q: Is the 2022 Mini Cooper worth buying?
The 2022 Mini Cooper is worth buying if you want a premium small car with bags of character, excellent build quality, and that unmistakable Mini driving experience, but be prepared for higher running costs and limited rear space compared to more practical alternatives.
Q: What engine options are available in the 2022 Mini Cooper?
The 2022 Mini Cooper range offers a 132kW 1.5-litre three-cylinder turbo in base models, a 187kW 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo in Cooper S variants, a 226kW 2.0-litre turbo in JCW models, and a 134kW electric motor in the Cooper SE with 177km of range.
Q: What are the main changes in the 2022 Mini Cooper facelift?
The 2022 Mini Cooper facelift brings body-coloured grille inserts, more aggressive diffusers on S and JCW models, standard LED headlights, new colour options including multicolour roof treatments, plus updated interior tech with a digital gauge cluster and 8.8-inch touchscreen.
Should You Buy It?
The 2022 Mini Cooper is a solid buy if you're after premium small car thrills and don't mind paying extra for the privilege. Starting at around R450,000, it's not cheap compared to mainstream hatchbacks, but you're getting exceptional build quality, distinctive styling that turns heads, and driving dynamics that make every trip feel special. The updated looks freshen things up nicely without losing that classic Mini charm, while the interior tech upgrades bring it properly into the modern age. However, if practicality and value are your priorities, you'd get more bang for your buck with a Volkswagen Polo GTI at R420,000 or even a Golf GTI at R580,000. The Mini Cooper is for buyers who want something different and are willing to pay for that uniqueness, making it a definite yes if character trumps common sense in your car buying decision.
