Car News

Mini Gives New Trim, New Tech to Three and Five-door, Convertible

Mini is bringing an updated Cooper to the 2018 Detroit auto show. The three-door, five-door, and convertible are getting some visual changes inside and out along with some new tech options and standard features.

The changes start on the outside. The Minis get new Mini logos front and rear and new alloy wheels. Mini also added a new body finish to help further customize the car. They have added optional piano black trim to the headlight surrounds, radiator grille, and rear lights. That replaces the standard chrome finish.

Optional LED headlights are now available. They have a new Matrix technology that lets them maintain high beam while dimming in small areas to avoid blinding other drivers. That means bright light down the road and off to the side without impairing the driver coming the other way. The rear lights get a new Union Jack design, recreating the flag with tail lights, turn signals, and LEDs. The Mini Yours customization program offers 3D printed fender badges and lights. That program isn't available yet but an announcement is expected later this year.

Inside, Mini has added new leather choices including new shades of brown. More piano black trim is also available. The steering wheel has been updated and there is now a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system standard. Bluetooth is now standard, and an 8.8-inch touchscreen is optional as is wireless phone charging.

Mini Connected, Mini's smartphone integration system, sees connectivity added with traffic info, 4G LT, and Apple CarPlay, It also has a new assistant feature that uses the user's calendar to plan routes and departure times.

The updated Mini three-door, five-door, and convertible arrive in April with pricing to follow.