Comparison: the J01 MINI Cooper vs F56 MINI Cooper

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The new J01 MINI Cooper is a massive step forward in many ways. But how does it compare to the previous generations? Is it an evolution or revolution? And more specifically does look better than the F56 – the previous generation MINI Cooper? Let’s take a close look.

Note: This week MINI is launching its next generation with the new MINI Cooper Electric and MINI Countryman Electric. In anticipation of this release, MINI invited us to experience the new cars in Munich and talk to the people that created them. We’ve taken that knowledge and poured it into exclusive in-depth articles, reviews and videos you won’t want to miss.

MINI Cooper EV: Premier | MINI Cooper EV: Hands-On Review | MINI Cooper EV: Video Review

MINI Countryman EV: Premier | MINI Countryman EV: Hands-On Review | MINI Countryman EV: Video Review

New MINI Family: 1st Look Video | MINI Circular Display & MINI OS9 Hands-On Review

When the F56 was released it was panned by MINI faithful for its large mouth and huge overhang (compared to the previous generations). It went on to be the most successful new MINI ever and those views have generally softened. Which makes this comparison pretty interesting. The J01 clearly is similar to the F56 but as you look at the two closer you start to notice some distinct and important differences.

It’s easy to see that the J01 is simpler and more minimal. But what you only get after repeated views is how many small but important differences there are. The higher belt-line makes the car look more aggressive and upright as does the taller but more taught hood.

Also interesting are the lights. The J01 does away with the surrounding trim yet they somehow look smaller because of how simply they are in comparison. They also sit slightly higher on the car and thus feel more upright.

Then there’s the clean sides which have real curve to them vs the very flat F56. The J01 introduced dimensionality we’ve never seen on a Cooper before. The result is a car that looks more athletic and aggressive.

Around back things get pretty interesting. We’ve had the luxury of time with the J01 so the rear lights don’t look so shocking to us anymore. Maybe because of that we actually like the fact that they’re smaller and simpler than what those on the F56. We also prefer how angular they are compared to the F56’s which are a bit bulbous in comparison.

But what do you think? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below. Is the J01 a worthy successor or has MINI gone too far?

The post Comparison: the J01 MINI Cooper vs F56 MINI Cooper first appeared on MotoringFile.

The post Comparison: the J01 MINI Cooper vs F56 MINI Cooper appeared first on MotoringFile.

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