Mini Cooper S Review | Remedy for Banality

In an increasingly banal and formatted automotive world, there are cars that sow joy. And which, better still, do not ruin you. The Mini Cooper belongs to this category. Often unclassifiable and sometimes irrational, this car nevertheless has the merit of making you smile and its driving, of having fun.

At first glance, we immediately recognize the features that have nothing in common. According to the stylists, no exterior panels from the previous generation have been retained. On the other hand, the technical architecture has remained the same, but has been subject to enough modifications to earn it a different code name (F66 instead of UKL1). It should be noted that the electric version (see our boxes) will have the privilege of being equipped with a completely new platform.

The nomenclature of this new Mini remains embryonic at this stage with two body types: 3 and 5 doors. Two engines are offered. At the entry level, there is a 1.5-liter three-cylinder, while the S version retains the services of a 2-liter four-cylinder. Both benefit from the magic of turbocharging. Both, always, drive the front wheels (traction) through a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, the only one offered.

Merry-go-round

Before even asking the question, here is the answer. Yes, the Mini still drives like a kart. The well-measured assistance of its steering ensures that it is never too heavy or too light. Just as much to its advantage, it communicates with rare acuity the liveliness of the front axle. It clings to the tarmac with tenacity – thanks to the tires – and Mini has the courage to delay the intervention of the electronic crutches as much as possible. This gives more latitude (and satisfaction) to whoever is behind the wheel. This Cooper turns, twirls, pivots like no other small car on the market. It invites you to a real ride that will leave you with a smile split from ear to ear.

Let's come back to earth.

The Mini is also a “butt-kicker”. How could it be otherwise with such a wheelbase and such low-profile tires?

The (numerous) scars on our roads disturb it and the occupants feel it. It is impossible to solve this problem, no doubt, but sticking to the 17-inch tires (standard) will allow some to space out their visits to the chiropractor. Maybe even the ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist since soundproofing is not this car's strong point either.

The S's 2-liter engine produces more horsepower and torque, but the gains are rather modest in terms of fuel consumption. And, as misfortune never comes alone, this engine only consumes high-octane gasoline. We don't skimp on that, but it still influences the cost of using it. It must be taken into account. That said, this engine, which lacks neither tone nor flexibility, is a sign of solid performance. The automatic transmission that accompanies it does its job perfectly, but it requires regular maintenance and, in the event of a breakdown, is rather expensive to put back into service.

It bursts the screen

Despite a renewed plastic and a refreshed interior, the Mini remains a (very) small car. The occupants of the bench seat, with its very low seat that forces you to look at your knees, will be the first to make this observation because the space in the back is so limited. Access and exit? Let's not talk about it, except to say that contortionist skills are an essential prerequisite. Even for young children. The only pleasure they will find is watching the landscape pass by through windows that, for once, do not have the appearance of laughable murderers. By sacrificing the rear seats, it is the volume of the trunk that gains and allows you to consider a weekend for two without leaving a suitcase behind.

Up front, it's a joy. You might shed a tear when you discover that the aviation-style switches have disappeared, as has the gear selector, in favor of cheap controls for a car of this price. With use and wear, you pay little attention to it, as the instrument cluster, round as a clock, amazes us with the quality of its resolution. Alas, (almost) everything is concentrated there. To get an idea of ​​the speed at which this Mini is going, you either have to take your eyes off the road or rely on the archaic head-up display system. Luckily, it's one of the standard features. This is not the case for 9 of the 10 exterior colors offered ($800 if it's not Chili Red) or the heated steering wheel included in an options group. Mini in size, no doubt, but not for its price.

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