What’s Next for the ICE MINI Cooper & the MINI brand Itself

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In a major shift in strategy, MINI will extend the production of internal combustion engine (ICE) models beyond 2030. However, it remains unclear which ICE models MINI will offer or, alarmingly, whether the MINI brand itself will survive as we know it past that date. Based on sources—and a bit of our own guess work—here are five strategies BMW might pursue as it plans the future of both the MINI Cooper and the larger MINI brand.

Since 2019, MINI has proudly proclaimed its intention to go fully electric by 2030. In fact, the original plan was to discontinue ICE versions of the Cooper entirely once the J01 launched. Thankfully, MINI quickly abandoned that concept, as the world has become a much more complicated place, with isolationist policies driving tariffs globally. To adapt without spending billions, MINI heavily revised the F56 (based on the UKL architecture) and integrated the new design language that debuted with the J01.

The result is that MINI is aligning with BMW’s “Power of Choice” strategy by offering a combination of its all-new EVs (sold mainly in Asia and Europe) alongside globally available ICE (internal combustion engine) models.

	Production Timeline	BMW Architecture	Europe	Asia	North America
J01 Cooper EV	2024 – 2031	J0	X	X
J05 Aceman EV	2024 – 2031	J0	X	X
F66 Cooper ICE	2024 – ?	UKL	X	X	X
F65 Cooper 5 Door ICE	2024 – TBD*	UKL	X	X	X
F67 Cooper Convertible ICE	2024 – TBD*	UKL	X	X	X
U25 Countryman ICE	2024 – TBD*	FAAR	X	X	X
U25 Countryman EV	2024 – TBD*	FAAR	X	X	X

* MINI has moved from defined end of production (EOP) to TBD on several models.

However, there are challenges with this strategy. For one, the current ICE models are built on an 11-year-old architecture. While solid, it lacks newer technologies and materials that could make the platform lighter, better packaged, and improve design issues—such as the long front overhang that has plagued MINI designers since the F56.

This raises the question: what’s next for MINI? With ICE production now expected to extend beyond the original 2030 end date, MINI faces a critical decision.

What’s next for the ICE MINI Cooper?

The first step is likely the F66 LCI (Life Cycle Impulse, or refresh in BMW terms) launch in 2027. Originally intended to be the final update to the ICE MINI Cooper before production ended in late 2030, these plans are now in flux. It’s possible we’ll see even more design revisions.

The Future of ICE MINI Cooper – Five Options

Option 1: Build an All-New MINI Cooper on a New Platform

The most obvious, but least likely, scenario is for MINI to design, engineer, and produce an entirely new MINI Cooper on a new platform. For this to happen, BMW would need to significantly revise its current FAAR platform, which underpins all front-wheel-drive BMWs and the MINI Countryman, to accommodate a smaller vehicle like the Cooper.

BMW successfully executed this once with the original UKL platform by creating two versions—one for smaller MINIs and another for front-wheel-drive BMWs and the Countryman.

Given BMW’s need to continue ICE production for its front-wheel-drive lineup, this scenario isn’t entirely implausible. It would be the ideal solution for MINI fans, as it would enable an all-new ICE MINI Cooper built on a modernized platform. However, this option is by far the most expensive for the BMW Group and it’s unclear if there would be enough sales volume to justify the expense given that the UK and EU are set to ban non hybrid petrol cars in 2030.

The F56 evolved into the F66

Option 2: Another Major Revision of the Current UKL Platform

A second scenario involves a substantial revision to the existing UKL platform, which has underpinned both the F56 and the upcoming F66. This revision could incorporate new technology, updated engines, and a redesigned body, while retaining the platform’s core mechanical layout and proportions.

This approach seems likely, particularly for the Countryman, as BMW will need to update its lineup to comply with evolving regulations and market demands. It would also represent a cost-effective solution for the BMW Group, allowing MINI to extend the lifecycle of its ICE models without a full redesign.

Option 3: Partnering with Another Automaker

A third option involves partnering with another automaker to co-engineer or purchase a small-car platform for the next-generation ICE MINI. This would mitigate costs and limit BMW’s financial exposure.

While viable, this approach comes with risks. MINI has faced challenges with partnerships in the past, notably with the Prince engine range, which suffered from reliability issues and resulted in costly recalls and warranty claims.

Option 4: Kill the ICE MINI Cooper

Perhaps the most obvious option is to end production of the F66 MINI Cooper family (the five door and convertible) on the original EOP date of 12/30. The replacement is the one staring us in the face – the J01 family of EVs. By that point the J01 Cooper, J03 Convertible and J05 Aceman will be revised at least once and be made in Oxford where it would be much easier to export globally.

MINI could then still offer an internal combustion models with a revised Countryman lineup. This strategy could be the simplest and cheapest for MINI as it greatly reduces its models. It also clearly positions the Cooper as an urban EV while the Countryman can lean into its strengths as a go anywhere, do anything crossover.

Option 5: The Unthinkable—The End of the MINI Brand

The fifth option is one that no MINI enthusiast wants to consider. With the rising costs of electrification, BMW is essentially creating two separate product ranges: one electric and one ICE. This dual-strategy places immense financial pressure on models and even brands that aren’t delivering the highest profits. Complicating matters is the joint venture that BMW entered into with Great Wall Motors called Spotlight Motors. While the company is co-owned by BMW, it’s technically a Chinese company and not able to cost effectively export cars in the current global political environment. BMW might simply divest itself from the relationship which could have ramifications for continuing production of the platform in the UK.

Adding to the strain is the potential for significant U.S. tariffs on imported goods—a lingering threat from isolationist policies like those of the Trump administration. Major tariffs on imports from US allies like the UK and Germany could disrupt MINI’s business model and force BMW Group to make difficult decisions, possibly even discontinuing the MINI brand in its current form.

To be clear we think this last option is not likely. But the next several years will be interesting to say the least.

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