by Kelly Fisher
Ah, a pocket rocket with real charm. I’ll be honest—I’ve never considered myself a Mini person. When I was shopping for a car, the Mini didn’t even make my shortlist. But then I drove the new Cooper S, and suddenly, I got it. Not Mini as a whole, but this—this little firecracker of a car.
Big personality, small footprint
The new Mini Cooper S looks sharper and more refined while still holding onto its playful DNA. The signature round headlights remain, but now with a sleeker LED design, and the rear light clusters feature that unmistakable Union Jack motif. It’s a modern evolution rather than a revolution, and that’s exactly what Mini fans want. It’s still compact, still quirky, and still turns heads.
A cabin that’s all about the experience
Inside, it’s classic Mini—but with more tech and fewer distractions. The massive 9.4-inch circular OLED touchscreen dominates the dashboard, replacing most physical buttons. It’s fun and futuristic, but if you’re used to conventional controls, it takes some getting used to. The materials feel premium, the toggle switches remain, and the ambient lighting gives it a high-end, lounge-like vibe.
I did struggle to get Android Auto working—maybe user error, maybe not. Either way, I had a similar issue in another Mini I tested recently, so it’s something to be aware of.
Smiles for miles
Under the bonnet, the Cooper S packs a punchy 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder, pushing out 150 kW and 300 Nm. That might not sound crazy on paper, but in something this small, it translates to pure driving joy. The throttle response is immediate, the steering is direct, and the whole car feels alive. It’s quick, but not in a frantic way—more like a well-bred athlete who knows exactly how to use its power.
The verdict? A proper driver’s car
At the end of the day, the Mini Cooper S isn’t just about getting from A to B. It’s about the way it makes you feel while doing it. If you’re after a car that’s engaging, stylish, and unapologetically fun, this is it.
I may not be a Mini person. But I am a Cooper S person.