OHLALA GOT BEHIND THE WHEEL OF THE NEW MINI COOPER S, A FUN, FAST AND FABULOUS MOTOR CAR.
How can one not get excited when getting behind the wheel of a brand-new MINI Cooper? This month, thanks to the team at MINI Bahrain – Euro Motors, OHLALA was fortunate enough to experience the latest release. The encounter left us even more infatuated with this iconic brand.
REFRESHED EXTERIOR
Laying eyes on the new MINI Cooper S was like seeing a long-lost love who had gotten better looking over time. Although the familiar shape of the MINI we have all come to appreciate over the years was still obvious, the improvements to the exterior have given it a more mature posture.
We found the brand’s ‘less is more’ approach to design clearly reflected in the sleek lines, clean surfaces and balanced proportions of the 2025 model.
From head-on, the captivating presence is defined by several features. These include its octagonal front grille, short overhangs and round adaptive LED headlights. Not only has BMW ensured the latest MINI model comes with powerful LED technology as standard, but it also offers optional cornering lights delivering improved side visibility. There are three different light signatures for owners to choose from.
No matter the angle from which we viewed this three-door, we found it an agile-looking compact car with a modern personality.
At the sides, we appreciated the posh alloy wheels, constructed from recycled aluminium to reduce both weight and carbon footprint.
At the rear, we liked the prominent new triangular taillights that give an additional dose of distinctive charisma. Interestingly, no visible exhaust pipe is present on the 2025 model.
CLASSY INTERIOR
Once inside the Cooper S, the modern yet familiar cabin captivated our interest. This 2025 model houses a minimalistic interior that combines clear forms with surprisingly generous space, along with a new central instrument. The fit and feel of the fabric, knitted in a unique 2D technique, proved first-class. We also loved the design of the chunky steering wheel with a stylish fabric strap replacing the third spoke.
From the supportive and comfortable front seating, we were struck by the large central OLED display, situated where the rev counter of the older models used to sit. This distinctive 240mm display is the first circular OLED display in the world and is made from high-quality glass. It serves as both instrument cluster and onboard infotainment and assistance hub.
“No matter the angle from which we viewed this threedoor, we found it an agile-looking compact car with a modern personality.”
As the Cooper S includes no gear lever, there is instead a large storage space including a pair of sizeable cup holders. Our favourite feature of this section was the small area for a smartphone, complete with an elastic belt that keeps the device pressed against the charging mat. A generously sized glove box adds to the cockpit’s convenience.
We loved the little ways in which the interior design paid homage to the original MINIs. This is best displayed through the inclusion of the starter switch panel. Reminiscent of the original design, this small section now comprises five intuitive controls for the most important driving functions. These include a small key-like starter switch, volume control, experiences, drive select and the handbrake. Everything else can be controlled through the OLED display.
Space-wise, there was ample room in the cockpit, as well as plenty for two sixfooters in the rear. The 210-litre boot also offered more space than expected, fitting a large luggage bag comfortably. This area can be effortlessly increased to 725 litres by folding down the 60-40 split rear seating.
UPDATED TECH & INFOTAINMENT
Although we loved the exterior and interior designs, it was the in-car tech that really shone.
The previously mentioned OLED display pushes MINI to the forefront of forward-thinking mechanisation. By combining all vehicle information, this outstanding control system provides access to convenient operating functions for the driver and all occupants. We could also select between two visualisations.
We took our time going through the new MINI operating System 9, which was intuitive and easy to operate. Using the unique OLED display and voice-controlled MINI Intelligent Personal Assist, we found occupants now have more control, connectivity and personalisation options than in previous models. By simply saying ‘Hey MINI’ or by pushing the talk button on the steering wheel, we could activate the new voice assistant enabling us to operate the navigation, make phone calls, control the temperature, access journey information or just have a chat. Brilliant.
In addition, the OLED display offers a brand-new innovation in the form of in-car gaming. MINI, AirConsole and Mattel, Inc., have collaborated with UNO, the beloved card game, allowing stationary drivers to invite any passenger to a UNO Car Party via the infotainment system. We spent an hour or so taking advantage of this new inclusion and can report it to be very entertaining – a fantastic inclusion for the kids.
The 2025 MINI’s range of free intelligent connectivity features can be upgraded at any time. They are also kept up-to-date via free, over-the-air software updates.
SUPERB RIDE QUALITY
One of MINI’s many claims to fame is its go-kart-feel driving capabilities. The new MINI Cooper S did not let us down in this area, and we spent a substantial portion of the day taking it through its paces.
Although the familiar feel of fun and freedom was certainly present on our test drive, we must add that the Cooper S seems to be a grown-up version compared to previous MINI models. The drivability has been polished, perhaps via the mindset of its BMW creators.
The 156hp, three-cylinder engine achieves a torque of 230Nm and can accelerate from 0-100km/h in a respectable 7.7 seconds. When combining a quick-shifting gearbox with direct steering and a precisely coordinated suspension and damping system, we experienced nothing less than premium British small car, agile handling.
We were impressed by how effectively the car ironed out any bumps on the road, as well as the responsive steering and effective braking. These ensured we had full control over the vehicle at all times.
Thanks to the window design, the visibility of our surroundings was clear, with the side mirrors greatly increasing our peripheral vision. The standard head-up display also ensured we could always keep eyes on the road ahead.
Lastly, we found MINI Navigation to be extremely helpful. It assisted us with 3D visualisation and augmented views. It also provided up-to-the-minute information on traffic conditions and even offered information on free parking spaces.
Safety-wise, we appreciated the camera and radar-based assistance functions. These included steering assistance and lane-keeping functionality when required. We were able to handle the stop-and-go situations confidently due to the inclusion of automatic speed and distance management.
OUR VERDICT
Whether focussing on exterior or interior designs, in-car tech or driveability, the new MINI Cooper S does not disappoint.
For more information,
please call MINI Bahrain – Euro Motors on 1775 0750.
@minibahrain