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Why the 2015 Mini Cooper Matters:
When Mini introduced itself as a brand some years ago, the lynchpin of the revival was the Cooper hatchback, the spiritual successor to the tiny three-door that helped mobilize much of the world. The modern-day Cooper led the expansion of the brand that re-emerged under the stewardship of BMW, and subsequently grew to include the Countryman and Paceman crossover utility vehicles, and the Mini Coupe, Roadster, and Convertible.
The '15 Cooper will set the message for the next generation of Mini models, as the brand continues to surprise enthusiasts with front-wheel drive variants on a cheeky theme.
What’s New for the 2015 Mini Cooper:
2015 Mini Cooper: Styling and Design
There are no major changes to the overall shape and styling of the 2015 Mini Cooper hatchback, which retains three doors, wheels at the corners, and a contrasting roof/body combination. The '15 model seems to have a slightly higher beltine, which gives the appearance of stoutness with little effect on outward visibility.
On the Cooper S model, seen here, the twin exhaust pipes are center-mounted, and a prominent spoiler juts out from the black roof. We like.
2015 Mini Cooper: What’s Under the Hood
The 2015 Mini Cooper's engine choices will break from the current roster of four-cylinder-only offerings, even as the new model is larger than the one it replaces.
A 1.5-liter, three-cylinder engine will become the standard bearer for Cooper models, and will produce 134 horsepower -- more than enough to remain competitive against compacts and subcompacts alike. The Cooper S model will retain a four-cylinder engine, which is a 189-hp 2.0-liter unit.
Mini will continue to offer 6-speed automatic and manual transmissions on both the Cooper and Cooper S.
2015 Mini Cooper: Features and Technology
One of the most significant innovations on the 2015 Mini Cooper is the availability of Driving Modes, which allow the driver to control efficiency and driving character with the flick of a switch. While we believe think hope that most Cooper and Cooper S drivers will prefer Sport mode, Green mode and a Mid (normal) setting will allow them to optimize fuel economy above all else.
We'll wait to reserve judgment on the enhancements made to the Cooper's driving character -- including camera-based cruise control, a head-up display, and parking assistance technology.
2015 Mini Cooper: What Autobytel Thinks
We're excited for the next evolution of the Mini Cooper hatchback, which promises improvements and upgrades to the hatchback that we've come to love. Overstyled exterior features aside, we are glad to see the familiar shape retained, albeit a little bigger in its latest evolution.
If the 2015 model can retain the sporty driving characteristics and overall tossability afforded by the current model, the Cooper should be able to fend off competition from America, Japan, and elsewhere.