Ultimate MINI driving experience
The word Toy has nine definitions in the dictionary. Four of them are incredibly relevant to the MINI. Read them carefully:
If the last MINI was too small
Like every good manufacturer these days, BMW/MINI has increased the overall dimensions of the Cooper. It is now 60 mm longer and only slightly taller. Most passer-bys will not notice the changes that the MINI has undergone, mostly because the car's proportions have been kept in check. The new wheels are still pushed at every corner and overhangs are still minimal.
A keener eye will notice that the headlights have been reviewed; they are no longer fixated to the hood though, they remain in place when it goes up. The grille, although very similar to the previous car, is restyled as is the rear-end treatment.
More funk onboard
I recall noting in the past that nothing looks like a MINI. This is still true today and nowhere is it more apparent than inside the greenhouse. The total layout of the commands and controls is essentially unchanged except for the audio system which is now integrated into the even more gynormous center-mounted speedometer. The toggle switches are still very present for the power windows, fog lights and, located on the headliner, controlling the sunroof and the color-changing ambient interior lighting. In an effort to keep up with the Jones, MINI has devised a circular saucer-style key that slides into a slot for accessories. To start the Cooper, the start-stop button located to the right of the slot must be depressed.
The word Toy has nine definitions in the dictionary. Four of them are incredibly relevant to the MINI. Read them carefully:
- An object, often a small representation of something familiar, as an animal or person, for children or others to play with; plaything.
- Something that serves for or as if for diversion, rather than for serious practical use.
- A small article of little value but prized as a souvenir or for some other special reason; trinket; knickknack; bauble.
- Something diminutive, esp. in comparison with like objects.
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| A sharply-dressed toy that would seduce anyone who would dare take its wheels for a spin. |
If the last MINI was too small
Like every good manufacturer these days, BMW/MINI has increased the overall dimensions of the Cooper. It is now 60 mm longer and only slightly taller. Most passer-bys will not notice the changes that the MINI has undergone, mostly because the car's proportions have been kept in check. The new wheels are still pushed at every corner and overhangs are still minimal.
A keener eye will notice that the headlights have been reviewed; they are no longer fixated to the hood though, they remain in place when it goes up. The grille, although very similar to the previous car, is restyled as is the rear-end treatment.
More funk onboard
I recall noting in the past that nothing looks like a MINI. This is still true today and nowhere is it more apparent than inside the greenhouse. The total layout of the commands and controls is essentially unchanged except for the audio system which is now integrated into the even more gynormous center-mounted speedometer. The toggle switches are still very present for the power windows, fog lights and, located on the headliner, controlling the sunroof and the color-changing ambient interior lighting. In an effort to keep up with the Jones, MINI has devised a circular saucer-style key that slides into a slot for accessories. To start the Cooper, the start-stop button located to the right of the slot must be depressed.
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| A unique styling for a unique drive. |