The new Mini Cooper is set to hit South African roads, and pricing details have just been revealed ahead of its official launch later this year. The compact icon returns, promising more style, power, and tech than ever before.

According to sources at Duoporta Vehicle Information Specialists, the fresh-faced Mini will be available in both three-door and five-door versions. Pricing kicks off at R602,051 for the three-door and R624,051 for the five-door model. At launch, buyers will have a choice between the “C” and “S” specifications, which dictate the engine under the bonnet. The "C" variant comes equipped with a punchy 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine, pushing out 115 kW and 230 Nm of torque.

This setup delivers a decent turn of pace, with the three-door model reaching a top speed of 225 km/h and sprinting from 0-100 km/h in just 7.7 seconds. The slightly heavier five-door version completes the dash in 8.0 seconds. Both variants utilise a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, which sends power to the front wheels. As for fuel economy, expect an average of 6.0L/100 km a solid figure for daily driving.

Opt for the "S" model, and you’ll get a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine that cranks out 150 kW and 300 Nm. This takes the Mini firmly into hot hatch territory, competing with the likes of the Volkswagen Polo GTI. With a top speed of 242 km/h and a 0-100 km/h time between 6.6 and 6.8 seconds (depending on the number of doors), it’s a proper pocket rocket. Fuel consumption remains respectable at 6.3L/100 km.

Size-wise, the Mini Cooper three-door measures 3,876 mm in length, 1,970 mm in width, and stands 1,432 mm tall. The five-door variant is slightly larger, stretching 160 mm longer and standing 32 mm taller. Boot space in the three-door is a modest 210 litres, expandable to 530 litres when you fold the rear seats. The five-door, with its added practicality, offers between 275 and 665 litres of cargo capacity, making it a more versatile option for families or those who need a little extra space.

The new Mini Cooper doesn’t skimp on tech or comfort. Standard features include 16-inch alloy wheels, automatic LED headlights with circular daytime running lights, rain-sensing wipers, push-button start, and a heated multifunction steering wheel. Inside, you’ll find a mix of cloth and artificial leather upholstery, automatic climate control, and a stunning 9.4-inch circular OLED central display that handles both driver information and infotainment duties. The screen’s lower status bar makes accessing features like navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto a breeze.

Safety is well taken care of, with front and rear parking sensors, a reverse camera, cruise control, tyre pressure monitoring, ABS, electronic stability control, and six airbags all included as standard. There’s also an array of tempting optional extras. Fancy bigger wheels? Opt for 17 or 18-inch alloys. Want more tech? Add keyless entry, paddle shifters, a head-up display, or even a panoramic sunroof. Other options include full leather upholstery, electronically adjustable heated front seats, adaptive cruise control, a 360-degree camera, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring.

Pricing

Here’s how the pricing for the new Mini Cooper in South Africa breaks down:

- Mini Cooper C 3-door – R602,051  

- Mini Cooper C 5-door – R624,051  

- Mini Cooper S 3-door – R646,395  

- Mini Cooper S 5-door – R676,395  

Each purchase comes with a 2-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty and a 5-year/100,000 km maintenance plan.

The new Mini Cooper continues to deliver on its promise of being the perfect balance between fun, practicality, and premium. Whether you’re after the zippy three-door or the more family-friendly five-door, there’s no shortage of reasons to get excited about this refreshed modern classic.