MINI

Cooper SE 2023 appears in more futuristic leaked images

Just over a month ago, MINI itself was showing the first images of the new generation of MINI in this modern era under the umbrella of BMW. A first appetizer for a debut that looks like it will have to wait until 2023. However, it won't be necessary to wait any longer to see this new body of the iconic British model without camouflage, as some photos arrived from China that already show the appearance of the fourth generation of the MINI without any type of filter. Although its origins are somewhat uncertain and have been taken in installations in China, many journalists and famous social media accounts such as Greg Kable have shared these leaked photos that show the new look of the famous utility vehicle in its MINI Cooper SE version, with a three-door configuration and powered by an electric motor that will be more prominent than the current one, but traditional combustion mechanics, both diesel and gasoline, will also be available.

These are images that show a model with a more modern appearance than it seemed at first, with headlights where a round luminous signature as a frame continues to be the protagonist, but which is accompanied by two horizontal lines. This differs from the appearance of the prototype revealed by BMW, it is still not known why the brand wanted to lose sight or why they are different versions. This look is accompanied by very smooth lines in the body and a grille with an almost octagonal and partially closed design, typical of electric models, which also gives its touch of modernity to this new MINI. But where this new 2023 MINI completely breaks with tradition until it appears to be a more modern than a retro model, is at the rear, where headlamps emerge that abandon the characteristic rectangular shape with rounded corners to propose a curious, much sharper style, but what if maintains is the characteristic floating roof.

However, in addition to aesthetics, in a way this new MINI suggests a return to the origins, with apparently a little more compact dimensions, specifically in its length, or at least the return of a much shorter overhang that gives this very particular touch to the MINI both in terms of aesthetics and driving.

This leak also makes it possible to partially discover its new interior, which bets on a minimalist and very clean design, where a large touch screen with a round design stands out, replacing the traditional instrument panel and making clear the brand's commitment to technology. However, another possible novelty of size is that the British brand will renounce leather inside this new delivery, while at the same time investing in sustainable fabrics, such as the MINI Strip, accompanied by a range of bright colors.

The MINI range will once again include the convertible body that will accompany the traditional bodies, and this time, production will take place in Oxford rather than being the responsibility of car manufacturing company VDL Nedcar in the Netherlands. Enthusiasts are hoping that a John Cooper Works will also arrive, which will likely be the last with a combustion engine, as the MINI wants to be all-electric by 2030. Before that happens, plans have already been announced to bring a John Cooper Works MINI Electric of zero emissions to the market, with the objective that it continues to offer the same sensations behind the wheel. Both for some and for others, an evolved version of the BMW Group's front-wheel drive FAAR platform is expected, which will make it possible to offer both gasoline and diesel models, which will remain alive for at least another generation, such as the aforementioned electric models.

Since these first images of the fourth generation are starring the 100% electric version of the model, it is expected that it will improve remarkably in terms of efficiency, so that the range exceeds 300 km. It should be remembered that the current model can cover a distance of just 234 km, so that all efforts will be focused on improving its battery technology.

Autonews