Iconic British small car brand Mini, which is now a part of the BMW Group, arrived in the Indian market back in 2012. Since then, the brand has enjoyed immense attention, especially among the younger breed of premium car buyers.
Mini has now launched the new 2015 Mini 3-door and Mini 5-door hatchbacks, at an event in Mumbai. For the first time in its history, the brand has introduced a 5-door version of the standard hatchback. Prices for the 3-door model start at Rs 31.85 lakh, while the 5-door model costs Rs 35.20 lakh. All prices ex-showroom, India.
Starting with the design, both the models get chrome surround headlamps, a hexagonal radiator grille, black body bordering and tail lamps embellished in chrome. Standard equipment includes innovative features like a head-up display, park assist and a rear-view camera. Additionally, there’s also active cruise control, collision and pedestrian warning with initial brake function, high beam assistant and road sign detection. Speaking on the safety front, Mini has included front and side airbags, side curtain airbags, three-point automatic belts and tyre pressure control as standard.
The new Mini range is based on the front-wheel-drive UKL architecture and benefits from a host of mechanical changes including upgrades to the chassis. For instance, the 3-door model carries a larger footprint than before, with increase in length by 98mm, width by 44mm and height by 7mm. The wheelbase, too, has been extended by 28mm. The 5-door model, on the other hand, is longer still with 72mm additional wheelbase. The latter has been designed for enhanced cabin space and additional two doors.
The 2015 Mini range is available with three engine options including a new twin-turbo, 1.5-litre three-cylinder engine that develops 135bhp of power and 220Nm of torque. A bigger 2-litre, four-cylinder unit produces 191bhp and 280Nm. Lastly, there’s the 2-litre, four-cylinder diesel engine that produces 168bhp of power and 360Nm of torque.
Although the global 2015 Mini range can be had with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic gearbox, India-bound models are available only with the automatic gearbox.
The new standard Mini range costs between Rs 31.85 and Rs 35.20 lakh and is offered as a completely built unit. At such a price point, the range competes with other premium small cars like the Mercedes A-Class and the Volvo V40 Cross Country.
