Mini Cooper facelift breaks cover

Refreshed LED lights, more equipment and a new dual-clutch transmission sum up the updated Mini Cooper.

The Mini Cooper and its sportier S version have received a subtle mid-cycle refresh for the 2019 model year.

Aesthetically, the updated Cooper and Cooper S proudly flaunt their British legacy. The rear LED tail lamps now mimic the Union Jack pattern – a design element lifted directly from the Mini Electric Concept that was showcased at the Frankfurt Auto Show 2017. The Union Jack motif can also be had on the dashboard, but only if you opt for the new Piano Black trim option. Up front, the only way to differentiate the updated model from the outgoing one is through the optional LED lights that now sport a full circle pattern.

A new infotainment system with a 6.5-inch display comes as standard, whereas a bigger 8.8-inch display is optional. Support for Apple CarPlay is there, but surprisingly, Android Auto is still missing. Things like Qi wireless charging and Mini logo projection are also added to the Cooper’s option list.

Also debuting on the new Copper is the all-new Mini insignia that ditches the three-dimensional design for a flatter two-dimensional look while retaining the key graphic elements. This is the first time that Mini has revised its logo ever since its ownership under the BMW brand.

The transmission options have been updated as well. As an alternative to the standard 6-speed manual transmission, a 7-speed Steptronic transmission with double clutch is optionally available in the updated Cooper. It is operated using a newly designed electronic gear selector lever. An 8-speed Steptronic transmission also comes as standard on a few models.

The refreshed model is expected to debut in India in a few months after its global launch.