New Mini Hatch With Combustion Engine Spied Winter Testing In Sweden
Mini is probably putting the finishing touches on the next-generation three-door hatchback. Our photographers spied a camouflaged prototype testing in winter conditions in Sweden and we can see that the vehicle already appears to be wearing its production lights front and rear. The yellow-black livery covers the entire car and doesn’t let us take a closer look at some of the exterior details.
Initially, it was thought that the next-generation combustion-powered Mini hatch would differ from its electric cousin in terms of rear design. However, new information from the company claims that the two vehicles will share identical design on the back. There’s not much to say about the rest of the exterior as this isn’t the first new Mini prototype we’ve spied – and we know it will represent an evolution over the outgoing model in terms of design.
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The same strategy also applies to the substrate. The facelifted Mini will ride on a heavily modified version of the car’s current UKL1 platform. Still, the hardtop model will be slightly longer and wider compared to the model currently available at dealerships. The wider track and stretched wheelbase will be complemented by larger wheels.
Combustion and electricity Minis will remain at the same time. In fact, every ICE-powered new Mini will have some form of electrification, at least a 48-volt mild hybrid powertrain. The Mini EV, in turn, will be very similar to its fossil sibling but will ride on a dedicated electric platform. We’ve heard speculation that there will be two EV variants – a base Cooper with a smaller battery for a range of under 200 miles (322 kilometers). Above that, an electric S could offer 200 hp (149 kilowatts) and a range approaching 250 miles (402 km).
We expect to see the new Mini hardtop towards the middle of this year. A new convertible has already been confirmed, though it won’t arrive until 2025. As for the three-door hatchback, we expect to see it in the US for either the 2023 or 2024 model year.