The current generation of Mini Cooper launched way back in 2014, so now it’s time for an update. Here’s the bad news: it’s not getting any major changes, like the dual clutch gearbox option seen in other markets. But on the bright side, it’s getting more British. A lot more British.


Today Mini announced minor updates to the Hardtop 2 Door, Cooper 4 Door and Convertible models that we will see in person at the Detroit Auto Show. Those expecting big updates, like power upgrades or significant new options, will probably be disappointed. Instead the car’s getting a bunch of new customization options, an upgraded infotainment system, more wheels, leather and colors, and a different logo.


More importantly the car’s doubling down on its Britishness, as if that were even possible. Americans love that shit on Mini Coopers (it’s true; we buy more British-ish accessories for these than the other markets) and so now we have the Union Jack graphic standard on the LED tails.

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In addition! There’s the option of a piano black dash finish on the inside that also has, you guessed it, a Union Jack flag graphic in the color of your choosing. If your passenger has any doubt where this thing was built, they need only look ahead, like the Queen looks at a map and stares longingly at all the territory she used to own.

There’s more improvements, like updates to the Mini Connected system that include traffic information, Apple CarPlay, better smartphone integration and a system that tags certain belongings and tells you where they are so you don’t use them. Clever!


Still, I’m bummed there’s no major change to the car, though it was good already. A power bump, all-wheel drive option or the DCT would have been nice enhancements here. But the tails are cool, at least.




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