Вся активность

Few concept cars in MINI’s history have captured the public imagination like the 2011 Rocketman. Small, clever, and unmistakably MINI, it was the brand’s most faithful attempt at reimagining the original 1959 Mini’s ethos in a modern context. While it never made it to production, the Rocketman has lived on in the hearts of MINI enthusiasts. And now, thanks to the EU’s new proposed Segment E microcar category, it might finally have a path forward. MINI Rocketman Concept design sketch – the original was reportedly very close to what you see above Rocketman Origins: The Airport Sketch That Started It All The Rocketman’s story began with a delayed flight from New York to Munich. While waiting in the airport lounge, Gert Hildebrand, then Head of MINI Design, and Marcus Syring, Head of Exterior Design (who would later move on to Rolls-Royce, BMW M, and now BMW ALPINA), started discussing the idea of a smaller MINI—one that captured the spirit and proportions of the original Classic Mini. Sketchbooks came out, and soon the concept of a more compact, minimalist MINI began to take shape right there in the terminal. Back in Munich, momentum built quickly. The design team had just wrapped work on MINI’s first-ever crossover, the Countryman, when official development on the Rocketman began. MINI Rocketman Concept (02/2011) By the time it debuted at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show, MINI was in the midst of a major expansion. The Countryman had pushed the brand into new territory, yet the Rocketman stood as a reminder of its roots—a modern reinterpretation of Alec Issigonis’s original idea of maximum space in the smallest possible footprint. The Rocketman embodied that idea. At just 3.4 meters long, shorter than a classic R50 Cooper, it was a showcase of what MINI could do if it stripped the car back to its essence. The name “Rocketman” itself was a nod to both ambition and agility: a small vehicle with a big personality. The Rocketman Design Ethos The MINI Design team conceived the Rocketman with a “creative use of space” mantra. The design was compact, clever, and unmistakably MINI. The car featured a carbon spaceframe concept that allowed lightweight construction while maximizing interior volume. Inside, a three-plus-one seating arrangement gave the flexibility to carry four passengers on short trips or open up more cargo space. Out back, a split tailgate included a pull-out drawer that emphasized practical urban functionality. Even the lighting signatures and sculpted surfaces previewed cues that would later appear across the MINI range. The Rocketman was never meant to be retro homage alone. Instead, it was MINI showing what a new kind of premium city car could look like in the 2010s. MINI Rocketman Concept (02/2011) Why It Almost Made Production For years after its debut, there were persistent rumors that MINI was preparing the Rocketman for production. Market conditions seemed favorable in Europe, where small cars like the Fiat 500 and Smart ForTwo were popular. At the same time, BMW’s budding partnership with Toyota created real speculation that a shared small-car platform could underpin the Rocketman. Between 2014 and 2015, reports even suggested that MINI was considering production under names such as “Mini Minor.” Enthusiasts and designers alike argued for the car, seeing it as the spiritual core of the brand while the rest of the lineup grew larger. MINI Rocketman Concept Why It Didn’t Happen Despite the enthusiasm, the Rocketman faced significant hurdles that kept it from showrooms. Developing a bespoke microcar platform would have been prohibitively expensive, and neither BMW’s UKL platform nor Toyota’s small-car architecture could be adapted without compromising what made the Rocketman unique. Safety regulations were another major obstacle, since meeting global crash standards in such a small footprint required costly engineering that threatened affordability. Finally, profitability proved to be the deciding factor. MINI and BMW recognized that larger models like the Countryman could command higher margins, making the Rocketman difficult to justify in the business case. By 2015, MINI executives quietly shelved the project, leaving the Rocketman in concept limbo. Why It Could Return Fast forward to today, and the Rocketman suddenly looks relevant again. The EU’s proposed Segment E microcar category would create a new regulatory framework for vehicles smaller than today’s A-segment city cars. This shift could lower development costs and make it easier to homologate ultra-compact vehicles for safety and emissions. If approved, the regulation opens the door for automakers to revisit microcars as serious products rather than design studies. For MINI, no past concept fits the bill better than the Rocketman. A production version would not be an exact replica of the 2011 show car, but the principles remain compelling: a short, agile urban MINI with clever packaging and a lower entry price than the Cooper. As we noted in our recent analysis, such a car could help MINI re-establish its foothold in an era when cities are moving toward electrified, right-sized mobility. MINI Rocketman Concept (02/2011) Our Take The Rocketman was always more than a flight of fancy. It was MINI’s most honest exploration of what it means to be “mini” in the 21st century. That it never made production says more about the economics of the 2010s than the strength of the idea itself. Now, with regulatory and market conditions shifting, a Rocketman-sized MINI has suddenly become a bit more relevant. Whether it is called Rocketman, Minor, or something entirely new, the vision MINI put on stage in 2011 may someday have the chance to make the leap from concept to reality. While the odds may still be a little long, but they look at bit better today than they have in over a decade. The post The MINI Rocketman Story & How It Could be Reborn appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

MINI USA closed the third quarter of 2025 with a solid sales win, delivering 7,270 vehicles — a 37.6% increase compared with the 5,284 sold in Q3 2024. Year-to-date, MINI sales now total 21,862 units, up 24.6% from the same period last year. But what’s interesting is how MINI is driving this growth in the US. What’s Driving MINI’s Growth? The surge is directly tied to MINI’s fully renewed product lineup hitting its stride in the U.S. For the first time, the new F66 Cooper, the F65 five-door, and the U25 Countryman have all been on sale for a full quarter. Which means we finally have real data to compare The data tells an interesting story within the range: Cooper Hardtop 2 Door (F66): Down 26.3% year-over-year for Q3. The drop is especially noticeable given the new model’s first full quarter of sales. One reason may be the absence of a manual transmission option, particularly on JCW models, which has left some enthusiasts sitting on the sidelines. Cooper Hardtop 4 Door (F65): Up an impressive 165.2% over last year with 1,326 units sold. That’s even up from the F55’s Q3 2023 when it sold 1,204 units (the last time the five door had a full Q3 production run). The gain could be attributed to buyers shifting from the discontinued Clubman, leaving the four-door Cooper as MINI’s most practical small-car choice. Cooper Convertible (F67): Sales skyrocketed 724.4% to 1,047 units in Q3. That’s not just up from 2024 (127 units), but also far stronger than Q3 2023, when MINI sold just 257 Convertibles (despite it having a full quarter production run). Clearly, the new drop-top is resonating far beyond expectations. Clubman: With only a single unit sold in Q3, this is the last of the leftover stock from a model that officially ended production back in January 2024. Countryman (U25): The biggest story of the quarter, with sales of 3,323 units, up 33.9% year-over-year. The new, larger Countryman is proving to be exactly what U.S. buyers want — more size, more tech, and a design that makes MINI competitive in the heart of the small premium crossover segment. Screenshot Year-to-Date Momentum Looking at the bigger picture, every model except the two-door Hardtop shows gains year-to-date. The Convertible is up 26.0%, the four-door Hardtop an impressive 168.5%, and the Countryman nearly 41%. That balance across multiple body styles gives MINI a diverse and appealing showroom mix at exactly the right time. But there’s Longer-Term Context For perspective, MINI’s U.S. sales peaked at just over 66,500 units in 2013, during the height of small car enthusiasm and high gas prices. Since then, the brand has faced a steady decline as American buyers enjoyed cheaper gas and shifted toward larger crossovers and SUVs. In recent years, MINI’s annual totals have hovered in the 25,000–30,000 range, a fraction of its earlier highs. YearMINI U.S. DeliveriesChange vs Prior Year201366,502 —201456,112 –15.6% 201558,514 +4.3% 201652,030 –11.1% 201747,105 –9.5% 201843,684 –7.3% 201936,092 –17.4% 202028,138 –22.4% 202129,930 +6.4% 202229,504 –1.4% 202333,497 +13.5%202426,299 –21.5% Let’s look at the quarter specifically. Q3 2025 sales totaled 7,270 units, a strong rebound from the downturn of 2024’s 5,284. While the result is still about 8% lower than the 7,900 units sold in 2023, it does edge past 2022’s 7,178 and comes in roughly 13% higher than the 6,445 units recorded in 2021. Compared with the unusually strong 9,064 sales of 2020, Q3 2025 is lower, though that year remains something of an outlier given its unique market conditions. What makes Q3 2025 notable is that MINI is finally selling its entire new range of cars giving us a real picture of sales. A 37.6% quarterly gain and nearly 25% year-to-date growth put the brand on track for one good year but not at the level we saw 12-13 years ago. That said there is clear evidence that the new products are generally resonating with buyers – albeit with one exception – the iconic hatch. Our Take This is MINI’s strongest quarterly performance in years, and it shows what a fresh lineup can do for the brand. The Countryman’s growth is especially important, proving MINI can compete head-to-head with larger, tech-focused small crossovers that dominate the U.S. market. The Convertible’s surge adds a surprise bright spot, while the four-door Hardtop is benefiting from a void left by the Clubman. The one weak link is the two-door Hardtop, which has long been MINI’s heart and soul. Without a manual option, particularly for JCW buyers, it risks losing its most loyal audience. That said, the broader range is delivering despite plenty of uncertainty in the US market – which has to be good news for folks at MINI USA. The post MINI U.S. Sales Surge in Q3, Driven by Fresh Product Lineup appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

In a surprise move, the European Commission has given the green light to a new microcar class, dubbed the “E-car” segment. Positioned as European, environmental, and economical, it’s designed to spark a wave of ultra-compact, affordable EVs—essentially a European counterpart to Japan’s Kei cars. For MINI, whose DNA is rooted in making small cars accessible, this development feels almost tailor-made. However over the past decade, MINI has steadily moved in the opposite direction. The latest Countryman is the largest MINI ever, and even the new Cooper has grown in size, weight, and complexity. While these shifts have kept the brand competitive with premium rivals, they’ve also left a gap: the absence of a truly small, inexpensive MINI. The EU’s new E-car category could be the framework that finally changes that. If MINI is game. Enter the Rocketman Back in 2011, MINI previewed exactly the kind of car this new segment calls for with the Rocketman concept. At just over 3.4 meters long, it captured the cheeky minimalism of the 1959 original while reimagining it for a modern, urban future. The concept never made production, largely because the economics of creating a unique small-car platform didn’t add up at the time. But in a world where the EU is actively encouraging small EVs, the Rocketman’s vision suddenly looks prescient. Lessons From Japan’s Kei Cars The EU’s new move echoes what Japan did more than half a century ago. In the postwar era, Japan introduced Kei cars—tiny, tax-advantaged vehicles designed to be inexpensive, light on resources, and accessible to a broad swath of the population. These cars became a lifeline for Japanese manufacturers, giving them the sales volume and financial stability needed to eventually expand globally. Brands like Suzuki, Honda, and Daihatsu built their foundations on Kei cars before moving into larger, more profitable vehicles. The EU clearly hopes to recreate that effect for European automakers in the EV era, ensuring there’s a viable alternative to cheap Chinese imports while also providing citizens with affordable electric mobility. For MINI, the parallel is striking. A modern-day Kei-equivalent could be exactly what the brand needs to reconnect with its roots and broaden its reach. Why This Matters for MINI A future micro MINI would not only plug a hole in the lineup but also give the brand a halo of authenticity. The Rocketman wasn’t just another concept—it was a reminder that MINI can be bold, different, and uncompromisingly small. A production version, adapted for the E-car class, could be positioned below the Cooper, offering buyers a true entry point into the brand. Think lower costs, lighter weight, shorter range—exactly the formula urban European buyers (and regulators) are pushing for. The Challenges Ahead For BMW Group, the challenge is scale. Can MINI produce such a car profitably, especially if it’s meant to be “affordable” in a way modern MINIs generally aren’t? One option is leveraging shared platforms or even partnerships, something BMW has done before. Another is to lean on Oxford and Leipzig’s flexibility in small-batch EV production, though margins remain the biggest hurdle. Our Take Japan’s Kei cars saved entire industries and launched global players. Europe’s E-car segment won’t just be about cheap city EVs—it could be the proving ground for the next generation of European small-car innovation. For MINI, the idea of moving back into a more basic segment feels rooted in its history. But it’s also at odds with where the brand has evolved and where we know profits in the industry are. For it to make sense, the regulations, which are still being defined, would have to be quite advantageous for MINI’s parent company, BMW, to begin writing some big checks. But if the business case does make sense and it aligns with the overarching brand strategy, MINI could find itself not just reviving the Rocketman, but rekindling the revolutionary spirit of 1959 that made the brand iconic in the first place. The post MINI Rocketman Revival: What the EU’s New Microcar Segment Could Mean for MINI appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

MINI isn’t waiting long to update its largest crossover. According to sources, the brand is already preparing the first of several planned refreshes for the U25 Countryman, beginning with EV-focused revisions arriving early next year. Like the BMW iX1 and iX2, the Countryman EV will see upgrades implemented on vehicles beginning with March 2026 production. What remains unclear is whether these revisions will include new battery tech, updated motors, or other drivetrain enhancements. But sources are telling us to expect slightly more range and other enhancements involving charging. This move is a deviation from the standard lifecycle impulse (BMW speak for mid-cycle refresh) that we’re used to for MINI. Instead, it would see the brand moving to a more ongoing series of improvements meant to keep its products more continuously updated. Expected Range Improvements Based on recent updates to BMW’s iX and i4, we can make some educated guesses about what MINI’s March 2026 refresh might deliver. The i4’s improvements brought a 5–6 percent boost in range, while the iX facelift delivered closer to 10 percent depending on the model. If MINI follows a similar path, the refreshed Countryman EV could see anywhere from a 5 to 8 percent increase in usable range, with the possibility of even more if MINI slips in upgraded cells or efficiency tweaks. the Technology Refresh MINI Won’t Get – Yet BMW’s refresh roadmap for the Countryman’s twin, the X1 and X2, shows two phases: an initial update in March 2026 and a more comprehensive Life Cycle Impulse (LCI) in July 2027, which includes the Panoramic Vision head-up display. Interestingly, MINI is not following that playbook exactly. Rather than bringing Panoramic Vision to the U25, the brand has chosen to invest in other areas of its LCI. The Full Countryman LCI We expect the Countryman’s full LCI to arrive either in November 2027 or March 2028 based on sources. And given that MINI hasn’t chosen not to invest in BMW’s Panoramic Vision display technology, we expect a more thorough LCI that we’ve seen in the Cooper of Countryman recently. Interior upgrades, exterior design tweaks, or even bigger drivetrain improvements could all be on the table as MINI positions the U25 to hold strong until its successors arrive. And yes, there will be multiple successors because, as we reported last week, MINI intends to split the EV and combustion versions of the Countryman into two separate products like the J01 and F66 Cooper. Our Take The headline here isn’t just about March 2026. It’s that MINI is clearly planning multiple updates across the U25’s lifecycle, ensuring the Countryman stays relevant in a rapidly shifting market. The 2026 refresh will likely bring incremental gains in performance and efficiency, while the later 2028 LCI could be more transformative. Perhaps addressing customer concerns about the fabric dash, a lack of personalization in colors and materials and even elements of exterior design. We’ll have more on all of these updates as we get them. The post MINI Countryman to See Multiple Refreshes, Starting With 2026 EV Update appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

“ICE and combustion will never disappear. Never.” With that statement, BMW board member Jochen Goller made clear that petrol power isn’t going anywhere. And nowhere is that more relevant than at MINI. Once committed to ending the combustion cars by 2030, the brand has now done a 360 and it starts with the Countryman. As we first reported last March, MINI isn’t just keeping the U25 alive — it’s preparing to launch an all-new ICE Countryman once this generation runs its course. Originally, MINI’s roadmap had the U25 Countryman bridging the gap until 2030, when the brand was expected to go all-electric. That plan has now changed. MINI will introduce a successor ICE Countryman around 2031, effectively committing to keeping combustion alive in its lineup indefinitely. How the Countryman Will Evolve The MINI Countryman will split into two distinctly different products under the skin. Much like the J01 and the F66 MINI Coopers, the Countryman will be offered as an EV on one platform, and with combustion power on another. Model / CodePowertrainPlatformStart of ProductionEnd of ProductionKey NotesU25 Countryman (ICE)PetrolFAAR (evolved UKL2)11/2306/31?It’s likely MINI will stick to it’s planned life-cycle and simply introduce a new ICE model when production ends.U25 Countryman SE ALL4 (EV)ElectricFAAR-based EV11/2310/28Intended to be a bridge EV model. Powertrain refresh scheduled for 03/26.NE5 Countryman EV (Next Gen)ElectricNeue Klasse (Gen6 EV)11/2810/36All-new RWD EV withGen6 batteries based on the Neue Klasse platformUXX Countryman (ICE)PetrolTBDEarly 2030sTBDIt’s unclear what will underpin this new Countryman but we’d guess it will be a revised FAAR platform BMW’s Three-Platform Strategy Explains the Shift This evolution at MINI is directly tied to BMW Group’s decision to consolidate its lineup onto three architectures: Combustion-only platform: Entry-level ICE cars built for markets where EV adoption lags, including India, the Middle East, and Eastern Europe. Multi-energy platform: Flexible enough to carry petrol, hybrid, or EV drivetrains, underpinning global staples like the current Countryman. Neue Klasse EV platform: BMW’s clean-sheet EV architecture, debuting in 2025 with the next-generation iX3. For MINI, that means a two-pronged Countryman strategy: the U25 Countryman (Petrol) running on the multi-energy platform now (FAAR), the NE5 Countryman EV arriving in 2028 on Neue Klasse, and a new ICE Countryman likely on an updated version of the FAAR platform. The Takeaway The phrase “indefinitely” is no accident. It’s the same language BMW’s leadership is now using to describe the future of combustion within the group. MINI’s decision to launch another ICE Countryman after 2030 cements the fact that petrol power is not a placeholder — it’s a permanent part of the brand’s strategy. For MINI fans, this is both continuity and choice. The Countryman will embody two futures in parallel: one powered by Neue Klasse EV technology, the other by combustion. And that duality looks set to define MINI well into the next decade. The post The ICE MINI Countryman Will Continue Indefinitely – What It Means for MINI’s Future appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

MINI USA has announced a new partnership with Smorgasburg, the largest open-air food market in the United States, to create an immersive fall event series that blends food, culture, and MINI’s brand ethos. The collaboration kicks off this October, with events scheduled in New York, Los Angeles, and Miami. Smorgasburg, known for curating hundreds of local food vendors and drawing tens of thousands of visitors each weekend, is the perfect stage for MINI to showcase its playful personality and expanding lineup. The events will feature MINI’s latest models, interactive brand experiences, and local culinary talent — all with an eye toward celebrating community and creativity. For MINI, this collaboration fits neatly into a long tradition of connecting the brand to lifestyle and culture beyond the car itself. From MINI Takes the States to urban pop-up experiences, the company has consistently looked for ways to show that MINI ownership is as much about community as it is about the cars. Expect to see MINI’s full range at these events, including the new Countryman and Cooper models. But the real emphasis will be on experience: food, music, and design curated in a way that feels unmistakably MINI. Our Take It’s smart for MINI to place itself at the intersection of food, culture, and design — especially at a time when many automakers are retreating from lifestyle marketing. Partnering with Smorgasburg not only puts MINI in front of younger, urban audiences, it also reinforces the brand’s image as something more than a car company. This is exactly the type of cultural partnership MINI needs to remind people that, even as it transitions to an EV future, its DNA is still rooted in fun, connection, and discovery. The post MINI Partners with Smorgasburg for Immersive Fall Event Series appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

The future of the MINI Countryman EV just got a lot more interesting. While the current U25 Countryman launched less than a year ago, we’ve confirmed that the next-generation Countryman EV will move to BMW’s Neue Klasse (NK) platform. It’s set to arrive much sooner than expected — bringing more range, advanced tech, and a major shift how it applies its power. Neue Klasse: A Leap Forward in MINI’s EV Evolution There’s a good reason for MINI to be aggressive with its timing of the new Countryman EV. While the U25 EV was just released in 2024, MINI wants to take advantage of the huge technical improvements that BMW has on the horizon. The new iX3 gives us a preview of the technical layout of the next Countryman EV but don’t worry, it’s modular design allows for smaller footprints. As we’ve reported before, BMW’s Gen6 EV architecture — the foundation of the Neue Klasse — represents nothing less than a quantum leap in battery technology, efficiency, and performance for MINI. Faster charging, 30 percent more range, and significant gains in power density are all part of the package. For MINI, this shift isn’t just about keeping pace with rivals; it’s about possibly becoming a market leader in the small premium EV segment. The move also signals the beginning of a fundamental change we detailed earlier this year: horsepower may still matter, but processing power is quickly becoming just as important. The Neue Klasse and its Gen6 platform will bring MINI a completely new electrical and digital backbone, unlocking advanced driver assistance, next-generation interfaces, and entirely new connected services. But it also unlocks something particularly special for MINIs— the promise of more natural driving characteristics. And here’s how the NK platform will impact the future Countryman’s driving dynamics A Platform Designed for MINI’s Future Even more intriguing for MINI enthusiasts is how the NK platform could change driving MINI’s classic front-wheel drive experience. As we explored, Neue Klasse is designed around rear-wheel drive, with optional all-wheel drive configurations. For MINI, that could mean a fundamental rethink of how the Countryman EV behaves on the road. Imagine a MINI crossover with sharper turn-in, more playful handling balance, and torque delivery that feels closer to classic BMW DNA than the pulling sensation that front-wheel drive delivers. Even in all-wheel drive mode, the current Countryman is still fundamentally a front-wheel drive car and behaves like it when pushed. That’s certainly not a bad thing, but those who are used to driving rear-wheel drive-biased cars with near 50/50 weight distribution will welcome the change to a drivetrain strategy that’s more at home in high-performance scenarios. Timing: Sooner Than Expected Here’s where things get really interesting. The next Countryman EV (internal code NB5) is scheduled to go into production in November 2028 and run until October 2036. But don’t expect a radical redesign given the U25 was just that. Instead we think MINI will use an evolutionary strategy outside with some major new tech inside. More on that soon. Our Take This move could be nothing short of transformative for MINI. The current Countryman EV was always meant to be a bridge — a way to get an electric MINI crossover to market quickly. The Neue Klasse-based Countryman EV, however, is the real deal. With Gen6 batteries, RWD biased dynamics, and an entirely new digital backbone, it has the potential to be not just the most advanced MINI ever, but also the most fun. What’s remarkable is just how soon it’s all happening. For MINI fans who want a true next-generation EV experience, the wait may be shorter than anyone expected. The post Next MINI Countryman EV to Offer More Range, Tech, and Rear-Wheel Drive appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

According to both Euro NCAP and the IIHS, the new MINI Countryman (U25) is the safest MINI ever made. Yet its NCAP adult occupant score is actually lower than its two predecessors. How can that be? The answer lies in tougher test protocols and some serious safety engineering from MINI. As the new Countryman has become safer, Euro NCAP’s testing has also grown more stringent with heavier impact barriers, more complex pedestrian and cyclist scenarios, and stricter demands on driver-assist technology. Against that backdrop, the U25’s five-star rating doesn’t just match the past, it surpasses it by clearing a much higher bar for safety. The numbers tell the story. ModelAdult OccupantChild OccupantVulnerable Road UsersSafety AssistOverall RatingR60 Countryman (2010–2015)84%83%63%71%5 StarsF60 Countryman (2017–2024)90%80%62%51%5 StarsU25 Countryman (2024– )83%*87%*81%*79%*5 Stars* Scores reflect more stringent movable barrier testing How Euro NCAP Testing Has Become Tougher Let’s get into the details on why a 5 star NCAP score means more now than it did years ago. 1. Frontal Impact Then (R60, 2010): Offset deformable barrier against a fixed block, simulating a smaller, lighter oncoming car. Now (U25, 2024): Mobile Progressive Deformable Barrier test introduced in 2020. Instead of a wall, cars collide with a moving barrier representing a vehicle of similar mass — a much harsher, real-world scenario. 2. Side Impact Then: A trolley impacting the driver’s side with a lighter deformable barrier. Now: Barrier is heavier, higher, and stiffer — designed to mimic modern SUVs and pickups, which cause more severe intrusion. Euro NCAP also added a far-side impact test measuring passenger protection in cross-vehicle collisions. 3. Pedestrian & Cyclist Protection Then: Focused on head and leg impacts of a standing pedestrian. Now: Expanded to include cyclists, children, and more complex scenarios like a car turning into a junction where a cyclist or pedestrian is crossing. Testing equipment (legforms, headforms) has also become more biofidelic (realistic). 4. Safety Assist Then: Basic seatbelt reminders and electronic stability control counted heavily. Now: Scores hinge on advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS): Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) that detects cars, pedestrians, and cyclists in day and night conditions Lane support and lane departure prevention Speed assistance systems with intelligent recognition Driver monitoring for distraction and drowsiness 5. Whiplash and Rear Impact Then: Only static seat/head restraint geometry tests. Now: Dynamic sled tests simulate real rear-end collisions with improved neck injury criteria. 6. Overall Ratings Euro NCAP now places greater emphasis on a car’s balance across categories. A strong adult occupant score alone isn’t enough; cars must demonstrate protection for vulnerable users and strong safety assist performance to get five stars. How the Countryman Has Evolved The numbers combined with how the tests have gotten more stringent tell an interesting story. The original R60 Countryman scored well for its time, particularly in child occupant protection, but was let down by weaker pedestrian safety performance. The second-generation F60 saw a jump in adult occupant protection (90%) but safety assist systems were well behind the curve, scoring only 51% in its 2017 test. The new U25 balances the equation more effectively. Its child occupant rating rises to 87%, and safety assist makes the most notable leap — climbing to 79%. That last figure is crucial, reflecting MINI’s integration of modern driver-assist tech such as improved autonomous emergency braking, lane-keeping systems, and cyclist detection. The U25 Countryman’s five-star performance is less about chasing numbers and more about meeting a tougher, more realistic standard of safety. Where earlier generations looked strong in some areas but fell short in others, the new Countryman reflects MINI’s broader approach to protection. In that sense, it is not just the safest MINI ever built, but also the clearest example of how the brand has adapted to a world where cars and crossovers keep getting larger and consumer expectations for safety continue to rise. The U25 isn’t just a safer Countryman, it is proof that MINI can build a small car with big-car protection — and that might be its most important achievement yet. The post The New MINI Countryman is the Safest MINI Ever – Despite a Lower Score in One Key Area appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

BMW and MINI have issued a recall affecting just over 1,500 vehicles in the U.S., including select 2025–2026 MINI Cooper, Convertible, and Countryman models. The issue stems from front seat belt retractors that may have been damaged during production, potentially reducing their ability to properly restrain passengers in an accident. Dealers will replace the assemblies at no cost. While recalls can sound alarming, it’s worth noting that MINI’s initial reliability has improved steadily over the years. Small, supplier-related issues like this are more common now than the systemic problems that dogged earlier generations. For most owners, it’s a straightforward fix rather than an indication of deeper concerns. As always, if you own a 2025 or 2026 MINI, you can check your VIN through the NHTSA recall site or by contacting your dealer to confirm if your car is affected. The post MINI Recalls 1,500 Vehicles Over Seat Belt Issue appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

“ICE and combustion will never disappear. Never.” It sounds like a comment in the MotoringFile comment section but it actually came from Jochen Goller, a key BMW leader on the BMW Group board who oversees all brands and sales globally. With that one statement, BMW has made clear its continued backing of internal combustion models sitting alongside EVs. So what does this mean for MINI? Let’s dissect. The unlock for BMW is a plan to consolidate its global line-up onto just three platforms: an EV-only Neue Klasse, a combustion-only entry platform, and a flexible multi-energy platform. The strategy ensures BMW — and MINI — can adapt as governments rethink 2035 combustion bans, EV adoption proves inconsistent, and infrastructure struggles to keep pace. How This Could Affect MINI For MINI, this decision lands has major implications to its current and future generations. MINI Cooper (Petrol): Built on the over a decade old UKL platform, it’s unclear how BMW will underpin future versions of MINI’s most iconic model. The platform has already been iterated on moving from the F56 to the F66 generation. Anchored on the ICE-only platform, keeping combustion Coopers viable in markets that still demand them. MINI Countryman (Petrol): The current U25 rides on BMW’s FAAR platform, the same architecture used by the 2 Series sedan and X1 crossover. That makes its future closely tied to those models. Looking ahead, we expect the Countryman to eventually shift onto what BMW is now calling a combustion-only platform dedicated to entry-level cars. Across much of the globe, from India to the Middle East to Eastern Europe, combustion-powered vehicles will remain critical to profitability well after buyers in most western markets have moved toward EVs. MINI Countryman (EV): The next generation Countryman will ride on the Neue Klasse platform and will come sooner than later. Alongside that it will make a massive switch to a rear wheel drive basis architecture meaning the entry-level models will be the first ever rear wheel drive MINIs. However in S and JCW configurations expect a dual motor all wheel drive set-up. MINI Cooper & J05 Aceman EVs: This is one will be interesting. The current Cooper and Aceman EVs are based on a Spotlight Motors platform and built in China. It’s unlikely that BMW will continue down that path with the instability in the global markets. So what will BMW do? Can the Neue Klasse be shortened enough to form the basis of a new MINI EV? If not would BMW partner with another automaker on new platform? It’s still unclear. Our Take The brand’s dual-path strategy, extending ICE models while investing in cutting-edge EVs, isn’t just hedging, it’s now hardwired into BMW’s long-term product vision. MINI can continue to serve traditionalists with petrol Coopers and Countrymans while rolling out the J01 Cooper EV and J05 Aceman for those ready to go fully electric. The message is clear: MINI’s future isn’t an all-or-nothing bet. It’s a both/and approach — and thanks to BMW’s platform consolidation, it appears to have the architecture to pull it off. The post Official: BMW Confirms Combustion Engines Will Stay – What It Means for Future MINI Coopers appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

Join private ladies for live chat and adult dating https://secrelocal.com [url=https://secrelocal.com/girls.html] adult hookups online [/URL]

If you’ve been eyeing an electric MINI, this is the week to act. The U.S. federal EV rebate program — which has played a massive role in keeping monthly payments low — ends on September 30th. After that, the current incentives that make deals like the 2025 MINI Countryman SE ALL4 so compelling will disappear. The Deal Right now, MINI is offering the 2025 Countryman SE ALL4 for $269 a month on a 39-month lease, with $4,879 due at signing. That monthly payment is only possible because the federal $7,500 EV rebate is baked into the lease structure. Once the program sunsets on October 1st, that subsidy goes away — and payments will jump accordingly. Why This Week Matters Federal Program Ends September 30: The U.S. Clean Vehicle Credit is being wound down, cutting off one of the most important financial levers that’s helped make EVs accessible. Leases Count: The credit goes to the lessor (in this case MINI Financial Services) but is passed along to customers through reduced monthly payments. That’s why the Countryman SE ALL4 lease looks so attractive now. Binding Contract Loophole: According to IRS guidance, you don’t need to take delivery by the 30th — you just need a signed contract and payment by then to qualify If you’ve been on the fence about going electric, this is the final week to take advantage of federal incentives. A 2025 MINI Countryman SE ALL4 at $269 a month is a deal made possible by the rebate — one that won’t be around after September 30. The post Final Days: Lease a 2025 MINI Countryman SE for $269 Before US EV Credit Ends appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

When the F65 MINI Cooper five-door first launched, it sat in a bit of an odd space. Purists dismissed it as a compromise, while others weren’t sure if the added practicality really mattered in a car still smaller than most compact sedans. Fast forward to 2025, and the story looks very different with sales up dramatically. Why and what could this mean for MINI’s future plans? As we reported earlier this summer, MINI’s U.S. sales surged 29% in Q2, thanks in large part to the new Cooper and Countryman. But hidden in that headline is a detail worth highlighting: the five-door Cooper is playing a bigger role than ever in MINI’s sales mix in the United States. A Look Back: MINI Cooper & the Quest for Practicality This isn’t MINI’s first attempt to add doors and broaden the appeal of the Cooper. The R55 Clubman (2007–2014) introduced an unconventional third door before the second-generation Clubman and the Countryman went fully practical with four conventional doors. The F55-based four-door hatchback arrived later, but its proportions and execution felt like compromises rather than clean solutions – especially when you compared it with the second generation F54 Clubman. Fast forward to 2025 and the Clubman (our favorite car in the line-up) has been discontinued. The upside is that this has given the F65 (a heavily revised F55) more obvious place in the line-up compared with the three door F66 and now larger Countryman. Why the 5 Door MINI Cooper Is Working We saw this clearly in our review of the 2025 Cooper S four-door. The F65 preserved MINI’s playful dynamics while finally delivering the everyday usability many buyers were looking for. It has become the go-to option for younger families, urban couples, and empty-nesters who want something fun but need a little more practicality than the three-door Cooper can provide. Sales Momentum in the U.S. The timing of this success is particularly notable. While the Aceman—MINI’s all-electric small crossover that plays the role of the five-door in Europe and Asia—isn’t offered in the U.S., the F65 has stepped into that space. It gives MINI a practical, affordable small car option that’s resonating with buyers just as crossovers dominate the market. Dealers tell us the momentum is real and the numbers bear that out with sizable increase. Demand for the five-door has been especially strong in metro markets where space is tight, but practicality can’t be ignored. The F65 is converting interest that might otherwise drift toward small SUVs, keeping buyers in the MINI family. The Bigger Picture The rise of the five-door shows how MINI is properly leveraging an again platform to fill a gap in its lineup – especially where the Aceman isn’t filling the role. It also points to a clear need for a Cooper model with a bit more flexibility than the iconic 3-door hatch while still being unmistakably MINI. In other words, what was once dismissed as a compromise is now one of MINI’s biggest advantages—and a key reason behind the brand’s U.S. increases this year. MINI Cooper Five Door Gallery The post The F65 MINI Cooper Five-Door Is Quietly Becoming Major Seller appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

Такая же проблема на R50. Если кто знает куда копать, дайте знать. Спасибо.

The EU has announced it will bring forward its review of the 2035 zero-emission vehicle target to the end of this year, two years earlier than planned. On the surface this is just a policy check-in, but the implications for brands like MINI are enormous and it could mean combustion engines will be available well past 2035. First a little background. Back in 2023 the EU passed a landmark law that would effectively ban the sale of new combustion-engine cars starting in 2035. The regulation requires all new cars sold after that date to be zero-emission, with only narrow exceptions for vehicles running on e-fuels. For automakers, it set a firm deadline to phase out petrol and diesel models across Europe and sparked billions in investment toward electrification. But as we’ve covered extensively on MotoringFile, things haven’t gone exactly to plan. Consumer adoption of EVs has been uneven and charging infrastructure has lagged. This resulted in BMW rethinking MINI’s EV-only strategy. MINI has since confirmed it will continue to produce ICE versions of the Cooper and Countryman longer than originally expected, as we first reported here and later here. Now, with the EU bringing its 2035 review forward, what once seemed like a fixed deadline is suddenly in flux — giving MINI more flexibility, but also more uncertainty, in charting its future. That uncertainty has only intensified. Just last year, BMW halted plans to make Oxford an EV-only plant by 2030, casting doubt on MINI’s transition timetable. And as we reported, MINI delayed its all-electric deadline and committed to producing ICE models longer than originally planned. The J01 MINI Cooper S was MINI’s first bespoke chassis EV The EU’s accelerated review could cement that decision. If synthetic fuels or limited hybrid exemptions become part of the framework—as is now under discussion—MINI would be in position to extend combustion offerings like the F66 Cooper and F67 Convertible beyond their expected lifespans. It could also add runway for the new ICE Countryman, which is set to remain in production into the mid-2030s. On the flip side, the EU is also weighing regulatory incentives for small EVs. That could play directly to MINI’s strengths with the J01 Cooper EV and J05 Aceman, which align perfectly with that category. And as we’ve detailed, BMW’s next-generation EV architecture—the so-called Gen6—has the potential to transform MINI’s range, charging speeds, and efficiency by the late 2020s. So where does this leave MINI? Right in the middle of the storm. As we explored last fall, MINI’s entire identity is now being pulled between its ICE heritage and its EV future. With the EU moving the goalposts, MINI’s decision to hedge—by offering combustion, hybrid, and full EVs side by side—is looking more like thoughtful foresight than hesitation. The EU’s review could actually work in MINI’s favor. Potential carve-outs for synthetic fuels or limited hybrids would give the brand even more runway for its combustion models, while incentives for small EVs could strengthen the case for the J01 Cooper and J05 Aceman. In other words, MINI’s dual-track strategy of extending ICE while investing heavily in EVs might not just be hedging bets — it could become a genuine competitive advantage. For fans, that means one thing: the future of the Cooper and Countryman is less about deadlines and more about options. The post EU is Rethinking its EV Mandate – What It Means for The MINI Cooper’s Future appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

MINI’s newest generation of cars, launched in 2024, is packed with tech designed to make driving safer and smarter. One of the most transformative features is also one of the easiest to overlook: MINI’s Adaptive LED Headlights. But there’s a catch—if you’re in the U.S., this advanced lighting tech isn’t available, leaving American drivers quite literally in the dark. While MINI has offered adaptive LEDs previously, this new version delivers more light and responds quicker thanks to higher central processing power. And outside of the US, it’s optional on all models. MINI’s adaptive lighting constantly tailors its output to road and weather conditions. On the motorway it stretches further ahead, while in town it broadens the beam to illuminate more of the immediate surroundings. When cornering, it subtly swivels in the direction of steering input to reveal what’s coming around the bend. At higher speeds it increases intensity and reach, while in adverse weather it reduces glare and spreads the light more evenly. The net effect is not only better visibility but also reduced eye fatigue and an added layer of safety. In our experience testing the U25 Countryman in European roads, it works as you’d expect. It’s not dramatic until you drive a MINI with the non-adaptive lights back to back as we did. The difference was noticeable but what you really appreciate is the both visibility and the simplicity of operation. Which is ironic given the complexity of the technology. An example of the MINI Cooper F56’s Adaptive Lights in action (previous generation) The lights also includes a “matrix” function, selectively blanking out parts of the high beam to avoid dazzling oncoming traffic while maintaining maximum illumination elsewhere. This feature is now common in premium cars across Europe, and MINI’s system is tuned specifically for the brand’s compact proportions and driving character. But here’s the rub: if you’re in the US, you can’t order it. Why the US Missed Out The reason has nothing to do with engineering, and everything to do with regulation. Headlight laws in the US trace back to 1940, when the government mandated standardized 7-inch sealed-beam units. That requirement, later modified to allow more sizes and eventually composite headlamps in the 1980s, locked innovation into narrow channels for decades. By the time FMVSS 108 (Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 108) was finalized in the late 1960s, U.S. law required strictly separate high and low beams. That framework effectively banned adaptive systems like matrix headlights, which rely on blending and masking parts of a single beam. While Europe and Asia forged ahead with adaptive technology, the U.S. stayed stuck in the past. It wasn’t until the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021 that Congress ordered NHTSA to revisit the rules. In February 2022, the agency finally issued a new rule permitting Adaptive Driving Beam (ADB) systems in the U.S.—half a century after the laws that had originally locked out the technology. MINI’s Timing Problem That timing is key. MINI had already locked its product plans for the U25 Countryman and its siblings well before the 2022 ruling. By the time the legal doors opened, it was too late to engineer U.S.-specific adaptive systems into the launch lineup. The result: European MINIs get adaptive headlights, while U.S. buyers are left with conventional fixed LED units. It’s a frustrating example of how regulatory lag can hobble product planning. BMW, MINI’s parent company, has been able to move more quickly with certain U.S. BMW models, but MINI’s smaller scale means changes must be planned years in advance. The Road Ahead The good news? MINI has every incentive to bring adaptive lighting to the U.S. in future model years. With the law now on its side, it’s only a matter of time before American MINI drivers experience what European owners already enjoy: headlights that adapt intelligently to their environment, making night driving safer, less stressful, and a lot more enjoyable. F66 Adaptive Headlights in action U25 MINI Countryman Adaptive headlights The post The Magic of MINI’s Adaptive LED Headlights & why you can’t get them in the US appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

продольные которые? не могу сказать, я в Major поставил оригинальные рейлинги. запрашивали у официалов и нет?

MINI will welcome yet another new leader on October 1, 2025, when Jean-Philippe Parain takes over the brand. The move marks the third leadership change for MINI in just over a year, an unusual amount of churn for a brand in the midst of launching its most important product family in decades. Parain isn’t a newcomer. He’s been with BMW Group since 1997 and has held senior roles across Europe, including CEO of BMW Group Belux, Head of MINI Europe, and most recently, Head of the Asia-Pacific, Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa sales region, where he delivered strong growth and market leadership. He replaces Stefan Richmann, who leaves after less than two years at the helm. Richmann presided over a 25% jump in MINI sales through August 2025, powered by the launch of the new Cooper and Aceman line-up and surging demand for the all-electric models. The bigger story here is the revolving door. Since early 2024, MINI has cycled through three bosses at a moment when brand stability should be at a premium. The new generation of MINIs—built on all-new platforms and carrying the brand deeper into electrification—is critical to MINI’s future relevance. Yet the constant reshuffling at the top risks diluting focus and slowing momentum just when MINI needs clear, consistent leadership. Parain’s mandate is obvious but not simple: keep the sales surge going, strengthen MINI’s position globally, and finally bring some stability to a brand that hasn’t had it in over a year. The cars are here and the momentum is real. What MINI needs now is a steady hand to carry it forward. The post MINI Gets New Boss as Brand Sees Its Third Leadership Change in Just Over a Year appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

The Goodwood Revival isn’t just a car event. It’s a portal. For three days each September, the gates of the Goodwood Motor Circuit open not only to historic racing cars but to a fully re-created world where time has been rewound to the late 1940s, 50s and 60s. A couple of years ago we were invited by MINI to travel back in time and attend the event. With period dress in hand, we headed to the UK where we saw first hand the magic of the Revival from the track to the ballroom. Here’s what we found. What sets the Revival apart is the authenticity. From the cars on track to the clothing of the spectators, from the signage to the soundtrack, everything is period-correct. You don’t just watch history; you live in it. From the clothes you wear, to the food you eat. And the best part? The entire crowd is in lock-step. How It Began The Revival traces its origins back to 1998, when Lord March (now the Duke of Richmond) reopened the Goodwood Motor Circuit. The track itself had been dormant since 1966, when competitive racing was halted due to safety concerns. Rather than simply restart racing, the idea was more ambitious: to revive an entire era. The approach was meticulous. The circuit and paddocks were restored to look exactly as they had during their heyday, and only cars that would have competed in period were allowed to race. Competitors dressed in vintage overalls, spectators were encouraged to arrive in period clothing, and the result was something no other motorsport event had achieved: total immersion. +44(0)7740583906 The Racing At its core, the Revival is about competition. Unlike a static concours, these priceless machines are driven to their limits. Pre-war Grand Prix cars, 1950s sports racers, and 1960s GT legends line up on the grid, often with professional drivers and racing icons at the wheel. The racing is real, the stakes are high, and the spectacle is unmatched. Where else can you see a Ferrari 250 GTO fighting for position against a lightweight Jaguar E-Type or a Cobra Daytona Coupe in the heat of battle? The Revival brings these stories to life not behind ropes in a museum but at full throttle on a circuit steeped in history. The Atmosphere The racing may be the main attraction, but it’s the atmosphere that makes the Revival unlike anything else. Walking through the paddock, you catch the sharp tang of race fuel and hot oil in the air, punctuated by the metallic ring of tools on aluminum bodywork. Mechanics in period overalls lean over open bonnets, their hands blackened from frantic mid-race repairs. Everywhere you look, the details hold. Original period signage hangs above the garages, vintage advertising posters line the fences, and big-band music drifts from a nearby tent. Step away from the circuit and you’ll find performers dancing on makeshift stages, vendors selling retro-styled wares, and musicians in tweed caps and dresses straight out of the 1950s. And then there’s the crowd itself. Tens of thousands arrive in period-correct dress, RAF uniforms, flapper dresses, mod suits, oil-stained coveralls, creating a living diorama that blurs the line between participant and spectator. At times, you feel less like you’re attending a car event and more like you’ve stumbled onto the set of a meticulously produced film. Our Take The Goodwood Revival has become the most important vintage motorsport event in the world because it’s not nostalgia on display. It’s history, alive and running at full tilt. What stays with you long after leaving isn’t just the sight of a Cobra leaning hard on its suspension through Madgwick or a Ferrari shrieking down Lavant Straight. It’s the way the entire event wraps you up in its world. One moment you’re watching a priceless duel for position, the next you’re brushing past someone in a perfectly tailored 1960s suit, as if you’d both stepped out of the same time machine. That’s the Revival’s magic. It doesn’t just tell you about the golden era of motorsport, it makes you a part of it. And in doing so, it reminds us that these cars were never meant to be museum pieces. They were born to be driven hard, fought over, and celebrated. At Goodwood, they still are. The post The Goodwood Revival: Inside The World’s Most Immersive Vintage Motorsport Event appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

Concept cars have always been part theater, part crystal ball. For decades BMW and MINI have used them to test radical ideas, hint at future direction, and just as importantly, inject a jolt of imagination into their brands. But concept cars also tend to hide something more practical—small, tangible pieces of design and engineering that often find their way into production models. The recent collaboration between MINI and Deus Ex Machina is a textbook example. The Skeg and Machina concepts weren’t just wild sketches made real. They were expressions of MINI’s cultural identity, dialed up through Deus’ rebellious lens. Yet beneath the design spectacle are cues we suspect might hint at future showroom MINIs. Machina: A hint at the Next GP? The Machina’s rear spoiler is the most obvious production candidate. It’s proportionally balanced, integrated cleanly, and sits within the realm of what MINI could engineer for a future JCW. We’ve seen this story before—concept spoilers, wheels, and trim details showing up years later on production cars, often with only minor modifications. Look closely and you’ll also see wheel designs that feel more realistic than fantastical. MINI has long used concept wheels to preview production styles, and it wouldn’t be surprising to see toned-down versions of the Machina’s alloys appear on a future JCW trim or even as an accessory package (albeit a bit less wide). The grille treatment—pared down and squared off—hints at MINI’s gradual evolution toward cleaner, simpler front-end design. The Machina’s iteration is more exaggerated but fits well within MINI’s form follows function approach to its recent design language. Could we see this in a facelift or a future GP? The lights are another area of innovation. Gone is the normal LED array that powered the low and high beams, and in its place are air intakes that add additional cooling for a higher output B48 engine. What’s left are two LED light bars that mimic the daytime running lights from the stock F66. Would those generate enough light to act as low and high beams? It’s not likely yet, but with the way light technology is moving, you can imagine that could be the case in the years ahead. Skeg: Surfacing and Interior Inspiration The Skeg might feel more far-fetched, but it too hides pieces that could influence production. The surfacing—particularly the strong shoulders and tighter, more athletic stance—echoes MINI’s move toward bolder proportions on its upcoming lineup. Inside, both concepts feature material experimentation that feels oddly pragmatic. From the mix of textures to stripped-down simplicity, there’s a clear nod to sustainable, durable design that MINI has already begun weaving into production interiors. Expect details like open-pore finishes, accent stitching, or lightweight material swaps to make the leap. The Bigger Picture BMW Group has a history of this drip-feed approach. The Vision Next 100 concepts forecasted design themes and digital interfaces that are only now reaching production in the Neue Klasse. Similarly, MINI’s 2014 Superleggera Vision gave us design elements—headlights, surfacing details—that shaped the current Cooper and future J01. Even details as small as trim finishes or dashboard textures can make the leap. What makes the Deus Ex Machina pair unique is that they’re less about technology showcases and more about culture. MINI gave Deus latitude to reinterpret the brand, and in doing so created design statements that both look back and peer forward. Whether or not we’ll see full-scale production versions isn’t the point. It’s about sparking ideas that MINI’s designers, led by Holger Hampf, can distill into future JCWs or special editions. So, will you be able to walk into a showroom and buy a MINI Machina? Almost certainly not. But elements like that spoiler, the wheel design language, grille themes, and interior material experimentation stand a strong chance of living on. As history shows, MINI concepts aren’t just visions. They’re laboratories, and what’s tested in the lab often escapes into the wild.For a deeper look at the partnership and design process, check out our coverage of the MINI x Deus Ex Machina collaboration, a critique of the concepts themselves, and a behind-the-scenes walkthrough with MINI design head Holger Hampf. The post Could MINI Bring the Dues Ex Machina Concepts to Showrooms? appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

The latest Euro NCAP results are in, and both the new MINI Cooper F66 (combustion) and J01 Cooper E (EV) have achieved the coveted five-star safety rating. So how is MINI’s smallest model able to do so well in such high-stakes testing? Especially when the tests are harder than ever? Breaking Down the Scores Euro NCAP has published its latest results, and the new MINI Cooper has not only matched but exceeded expectations. Both the F66 (combustion) and J01 Cooper E (EV) achieved five-star ratings, a significant leap from the outgoing F56 tested in 2014. The table below highlights just how far MINI’s smallest model has come — and under much tougher modern testing protocols. ModelAdult OccupantChild OccupantVulnerable Road UsersSafety AssistOverall RatingF56 MINI Cooper (2014)79%73%66%56%????F66 MINI Cooper (2025, ICE)83%82%81%77%?????J01 MINI Cooper E (2025, EV)82%87%75%79%????? The Evolution of MINI Safety Looking at the numbers, the jump in performance is clear. Both new Coopers, regardless of drivetrain, show marked improvement across all categories. Child safety in particular has seen dramatic progress — rising from 73% in the F56 to 87% in the J01 Cooper E. Safety assist systems also tell a similar story, with MINI leaping from just 56% in the old car to nearly 80% in both new models. That matters, because safety assist is one of the fastest-moving parts of the NCAP assessment. Automatic emergency braking (AEB), pedestrian and cyclist detection, lane keeping assist, and driver monitoring have all become baseline requirements in the latest testing cycle. The fact that MINI has moved from below average in 2014 to among the segment leaders in 2025 is no small feat. The Context: Tests Have Gotten Harder It’s important to note that Euro NCAP has not stood still since the F56 was tested over a decade ago. The protocols have become substantially tougher: Side impact tests now simulate heavier, higher-riding SUVs striking the vehicle. Frontal offset crashes now use a mobile deformable barrier to better replicate two vehicles colliding. Vulnerable road user tests include more demanding cyclist and junction scenarios. Safety assist requirements expand every few years to include new driver-assistance features. So while the raw numbers tell a story of improvement, the bigger story is that MINI has managed to score higher ratings under much more stringent conditions. Why This Matters For a brand that has built its identity on small, fun-to-drive cars, safety has always been an uphill battle. Small cars naturally face more challenges in crash performance compared to larger vehicles with longer crumple zones. That’s what makes these results stand out: MINI has delivered five-star ratings across both its smallest ICE and EV models, meeting the demands of today’s consumers without sacrificing the brand’s core DNA. Our Take Away With the F66 and J01 both securing five-star ratings, the contrast with the older F56 highlights how much progress has been made in occupant protection and active safety. What makes the result noteworthy isn’t just the higher percentages, but that they were achieved under Euro NCAP’s far tougher testing regime, where many rivals have struggled to keep pace. The post Video: MINI Cooper Safety – How the Smallest MINI Earned Five Stars appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

The latest Euro NCAP results are in: both the new MINI Cooper 3-door (F66) and the MINI Aceman (J05) have earned five-star ratings. That headline alone is easy to gloss over, but it carries more weight than you might think. Five stars today isn’t the same as it was a decade ago — the standards are tougher, the testing more punishing, and the data more revealing. Which makes MINI’s clean sweep across the lineup, from the J01 Cooper Electric to the 2025 Countryman, worth a closer look. Euro NCAP’s testing has only gotten tougher in recent years, with higher bars for occupant safety, pedestrian protection, and the effectiveness of driver-assist systems. To see two all-new MINIs land top marks — in all variants, from Cooper C to John Cooper Works — suggests that BMW has fully baked safety into the brand’s latest platforms rather than treating it as optional or add-on tech. Safety in Numbers The F66 Cooper scored 83% for adult protection, 82% for child safety, and 81% for pedestrian safety — all very solid figures for the segment. The Aceman posted similar results but did especially well for child safety at 87%. Importantly, these ratings apply across the board. There’s no “only if you tick the right box” fine print. Here’s a full look at the MINI range when it comes too NCAAP safety ratings. ModelAdult Occupant ProtectionChild SafetyPedestrian / Vulnerable Road User ProtectionSafety Assist SystemsF66 MINI Cooper 3-door83%82%81%77%J05 MINI Aceman83%87%77%79%2025 MINI Countryman83%87%81%79%MINI Cooper E (J01 Electric)89%85%77%79% Screenshot Context Matters This isn’t happening in a vacuum. Earlier this year, the 2025 Countryman also scored five stars, and the all-electric J01 Cooper did the same. That’s four out of four for MINI’s latest lineup — something the brand has never achieved before. But before we give MINI too much credit, it’s worth pointing out that they’re also standing on BMW Group’s shoulders here. Much of this success comes down to shared crash structures, sensor suites, and assist systems that were engineered for the larger BMW range. MINI benefits from that scale. Screenshot Our Take It’s easy to dismiss safety ratings as marketing fodder, but in an era where repair costs are skyrocketing and insurance premiums are climbing, these results matter more than ever. Safer cars don’t just mean fewer injuries; they can also mean fewer write-offs after relatively minor accidents — something MINI owners have been facing in recent years. Does this suddenly make MINI the obvious choice in the small car segment? Not necessarily. The competition is also chasing five-star ratings, and Euro NCAP’s numbers don’t tell the whole story about real-world crashes or long-term repairability. But taken together with the Countryman’s results, this does mark a point of success for MINI and once again proves small cars can be incredibly safe at not just active safety, but passive safety as well. The post MINI Cooper and Aceman Earn Top Euro NCAP Safety Ratings appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

Today, BMW is seen as one of the leading EV brands in the world. While that growth can be traced back to the 70s, it was jump-started by the cancellation of its F1 program and a MINI Cooper that many have already forgotten. No car company wants regulation. But every so often, rules and deadlines force the industry to move in ways it might not otherwise. For BMW and MINI, California’s first emissions standards in 1966 and the U.S. Clean Air Act in 1970 were the first push. But they didn’t just result in EVs; they accelerated BMW into fuel injection with cars like the 2002 tii, making them cleaner, more efficient, and quicker. However, decades later, it would be MINI, not BMW, that carried the Group’s first real step into electrification. But lowering emissions was only part of the story. Eliminating them completely required something radical: a return to electric drivetrains. And while BMW wasn’t building cars during the first “electric age” at the turn of the century, it dipped its toes in 1972 with the Elektro 1602, a converted 2002 that quietly paced marathon runners at the Munich Olympics. Twelve lead-acid batteries and a 44-mile range meant it was more science project than production car, but it marked the beginning of a long journey. Hydrogen Detours and California Pressure Through the 1980s and 90s, BMW chased hydrogen as a zero-emission path while regulators in California kept pressing for EVs. Concepts like the E1 and E2 looked futuristic but struggled with sodium-sulfur batteries. Even a small fleet of 3 Series with experimental range-extenders missed the mark. The reality, as BMW NA’s Rich Brekus later put it: “The E36 electric vehicles were terrible.” California eventually agreed to accept BMW’s Partial Zero Emission Vehicles instead — cars that were still gasoline-powered but extraordinarily clean. Millions of them hit the road, dramatically improving California’s air quality. BMW i3 Concept and BMW i8 Concept (07/2011) Project i and the Megacity Vision By 2007, BMW shifted gears. Cancelling its F1 program and shelving hydrogen experiments, the company launched Project i. The idea wasn’t just to build an EV, but to rethink mobility in the age of megacities. Enter the MINI E: 1,088 lithium-ion cells powering a MINI hatch stripped of its rear seats. With 201 hp and a claimed 156-mile range, it was crude but promising. What made the MINI E remarkable wasn’t the hardware but the test program. In 2009, BMW put 450 of them in the hands of real customers in LA, New York and New Jersey. Leasing cost $850 a month, and drivers had to provide feedback. Suddenly MINI wasn’t just quirky and fun — it was pioneering BMW Group’s EV future with real-world testing. Enthusiasts like Pacific Palisades resident Peter Trepp blogged daily about charging, regenerative braking and life without gas stations. Customers discovered the joys (instant torque, one-pedal driving) and the headaches (European plugs without UL approval, brutal range loss in the cold). From MINI E to ActiveE Phase two came in 2012 with the BMW ActiveE, a battery-electric 1 Series coupe with liquid-cooled batteries and more refinement. Range was still only about 100 miles, but the car previewed the powertrain and thermal management that would underpin BMW’s first true production EV, the i3. Lessons That Still Matter The MINI E and ActiveE weren’t sales hits — they were rolling test beds. But they taught BMW how customers charge, what range anxiety feels like, and how utilities might one day use EVs to stabilize the grid. They also laid the groundwork for BMW’s circular economy thinking, repurposing old EV batteries for stationary energy storage. And while Tesla grabbed headlines with the Model S and its 300-mile range, BMW’s methodical path through Project i showed how a legacy automaker could learn by doing. The experiments were messy, sometimes frustrating, but essential. Our Take Looking back, the MINI E and ActiveE feel like scrappy prototypes compared to the polished Neue Klasse EVs about to arrive. But they were the spark. Regulation may have forced BMW’s hand, but what kept the momentum going was curiosity, engineering stubbornness and the willingness to hand imperfect cars to real drivers. Without that, there’s no i3, no iX, no electric MINI Cooper SE, and no forthcoming Neue Klasse. BMW i3 Concept and BMW i8 Concept (07/2011) The post How Leaving F1 and Launching the MINI E Made BMW an EV Leader appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

MINI x Dues Ex Machina have succeeded in creating the most talked about MINI concepts in over a decade. But it’s the details that really set them apart. Join us as we take a look at these concepts with Head of MINI Design Holger Hampf. As Hampf explains, both concepts start from a similar foundation but then take dramatically different paths. A shared white “X” graphic across their roofs ties them together visually, while their design philosophies couldn’t be further apart. The Skeg leans into surf culture and electric performance. Its exposed seams, chunky switches, and unpolished finishes give it a utilitarian honesty, while the electric drivetrain points toward MINI’s future. It’s playful, functional, and distinctly Californian in spirit. The Machina, by contrast, is motorsport distilled. Stripped down, aggressive, and fire-breathing, it channels MINI’s rallying heritage into a modern race-bred form. Where the Skeg looks outward to lifestyle, the Machina looks back to MINI’s competition roots. Walking through the pair together makes it clear: they’re not just design experiments, but provocations. The Skeg and the Machina challenge what John Cooper Works can be — one rooted in culture and the future of electrification, the other in heritage and raw combustion power. Both are MINI. Both are JCW. But they show just how far the brand’s personality can stretch when its designers are allowed to play. The post Video: Inside the MINI x Dues Ex Machina Concepts with Holger Hampf appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

BMW has been teasing the Neue Klasse for years. On MotoringFile, we’ve covered how it represents a full reboot for BMW Group, built from the ground up for electrification, digitalization, and sustainability. Today that future rolls onto the road for the first time with the debut of the all-new BMW iX3, the first production Neue Klasse model. For MINI it represents more than new tech, it represents perhaps the most radical transformation yet. What Makes BMW’s Neue Klasse Generation of Cars Different The iX3 much more than a new BMW EV. It’s the first taste of the technology and architecture that will ultimately underpin MINIs globally and represents a clean-sheet rethink of everything from the wiring harness to the software architecture. That matters because MINI is expected to share this same platform starting in later this decade starting with an all-new Countryman EV. What This means for Future MINIs Think faster charging, longer range, and a more refined driving experience. More importantly, it creates the flexibility for MINI to do something we’ve been reporting on since earlier this year: potentially move to rear-wheel drive. Why? The Neue Klasse platform will allow for a single-motor setup (likely for lower-trim BMW and MINI models), but this motor will drive only the rear wheels due to the platform’s layout. Additionally, the architecture supports dual-, tri-, and even quad-motor configurations, all of which will be rear-biased. as we’ve previously explained, the reasoning behind this approach is that RWD setups provide superior driving dynamics due to better weight distribution and traction advantages. For MINI, that opens the door to new and potentially more balanced handling in its larger models like the Countryman. For the smaller MINIs it’s still unclear if and when this new platform will be adopted. But a rear wheel drive Cooper sounds either exciting and sacrilegious depending on how you view it. In total the BMW iX3 proves that Neue Klasse is real, scalable, and ready for production. For MINI fans, this means: Rear-wheel drive potential for future models Faster charging, with up to 230 miles added in 10 minutes More efficient, higher-density batteries Driving dynamics tuned by the Heart of Joy system Digital experiences powered by the same iDrive X foundation But this isn’t just about electric MINIs. Combustion powered MINIs will also take advantage of elements of the Neue Klasse technology suite. The “Heart of Joy” At the heart of all Neue Klasse BMW’s is a tech stack and processor called “Heart of Joy.” This system blends steering, braking, power delivery, and regeneration in real time. We had a chance to sample this platform in a BMW prototype not long ago and came away impressed. Not just because of the speed but how the car seemed to be more intuitive to control than a typical EV. BMW has been focused on things like predictable feel in corners despite the fact that almost all braking is handled by regeneration. It’s this level of detail that BMW believes will bring handling nuance and even proper steering feel to EVs. For MINI drivers, this could be the single most important innovation of the Neue Klasse era. It directly addresses the concern that EVs might lose the feedback and liveliness we associate with MINIs. Instead, the Heart of Joy promises to enhance it. Digital: What BMW Calls iDrive X, MINI Will Make Its Own Another huge innovation with the Neue Klasse is the iDrive Panoramic. We’ve been tracking whether MINI will adopt the new iDrive Panoramic and from what we know, it’s complicated. Based on our sources, MINI will continue its focus on the iconic center display and will delay the introduction of the Panoramic display for the time being. But the same tech backbone powers both brands, which means MINI drivers will see many of the same benefits: faster and more fluid interfaces, smarter voice control, and driver assistance that feels like a partner instead of a takeover. Design: BMW’s Neue Klasse vs MINI’s Take BMW design chief Adrian van Hooydonk describes the Neue Klasse design language as “reduced, characterful, timeless.” The iX3 demonstrates this with clean surfacing and upright kidney grilles. MINI will bring the same ethos into its own design DNA with round headlights, short overhangs, and a playful personality. Underneath, proportions enabled by the platform are just as important. A long wheelbase, low drag, and flat battery floor free up space inside, helping MINI deliver roomy cabins while maintaining the compact footprint that defines the brand. Our Take The iX3 may never sit in your driveway, but the platform underneath might sit under your future MINI. If BMW delivers on the numbers and MINI embraces rear-wheel drive and iDrive X in its own way, we could be looking at a very big change for the MINI brand. This is not just BMW turning a page. For MINI, Neue Klasse could be the moment the brand reinvents itself while doubling down on the fun-to-drive DNA that made it famous. The post The All-New BMW iX3: A Glimpse Into MINI’s Rear-Wheel-Drive Future appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article