Mini Philippines gives the Cooper a mild update

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August 4, 2018

After its world debut at this year’s North American Auto Show in Detroit, the refreshed 2019 Mini Cooper makes its way th our shores. And Mini Philippines brings in the whole range of models, which include the 3-Door, 5-Door, and Convertible.

While it may be a mild styling update, the 2019 Mini Cooper gets new LED headlights with daytime running lights, as well as a cool new Union Jack inspired taillight assembly. This latter bit gives the Cooper a style all its own, not to mention letting the world know of its British roots.

As with the exterior, the cabin gets new trims, a revised steering wheel, and an updated 6.5-inch infotainment screen. One can even choose to spec the cabin with lighter trims or dark Piano Black accents. There is also Union Jack illumination for the dash.

Besides being able to customize the Mini Cooper to their liking, buyers can also choose from a host of engines. There is a 1.5-liter three-cylinder turbo with 136hp and 220Nm, a 2.0-liter 192hp and 280Nm inline turbo four, and a 2.0-liter TwinPower turbo with 231hp and 320Nm of torque. The last choice is exclusively for the John Cooper Works (JCW) variant equipped with a 7-speed Steptronic dual clutch gearbox. This allows the 3-Door JCW model to sprint from rest to the century mark in just 6.1 ticks and hit a 246kph top speed.

Speaking of the Steptronic DCT, it is linked to the navigation system and allows the tranny to anticipate road conditions ahead. This will then prompt the system to use the appropriate gear for the most efficient use of power and get the best fuel economy.  Sportier S variants receive paddle shifters to give drivers more control on the move

Mini Philippines pegs retail prices as follows:

  • Mini Cooper 3Door: P2,550,000
  • Mini Cooper S 3Door: P3,000,000
  • Mini Cooper JCW 3Door: P3,850,000
  • Mini Cooper 5Door: P2,650,000
  • Mini Cooper S 5Door: P3,100,000
  • Mini Cooper Convertible S: P3,350,000

Photos by: Paolo Lesaca

About the Author

Mr. Gerard Jude Castillo
Gerard has been a self-confessed car nut ever since he was a little boy. As a grown-up, he indulges in his passion by collecting toy cars (which he started since childhood) and reading up on the latest cars out there.  As Associate Editor, he will ensure that you get your fill of the latest cars in the market, as well as a load of automotive features.