Next Mini Cooper to be inspired by 2001 ‘R50’ – and could go RWD
The decision would also have significant ramifications for the petrol Cooper, which is expected to carry on through the 2030s – possibly with the addition of hybrid powertrains, still driving the front wheels.
Although they share a fundamental design, the current petrol Cooper is an overhauled version of the previous-generation car, while the electric Cooper is based on the Chinese JV platform; opting for the new BMW architecture could bring a bigger gulf between the look of the two models.
Familiar look
Regardless of any technical revolution, Hampf is resolute in his commitment to maintaining the brand’s signature look.
“You can ask a Brit or a German or an Italian, you can ask a five-year-old, and they will recognise a Mini based on the proportions of the car,” he told Autocar.
“Especially when it comes to the three-door hatch, it’s a very short car with wheels at its corners, short overhangs, with some signature elements such as the facial impression. This is the most important to me: the combination of round headlights and grille.”
Referring to future versions of the flagship hatch, he added: “Every five-year-old will know this is a Mini. It’s my job to treat it with respect.”
Hampf said his “number-one” priority is maintaining the Mini’s proportions and “this is non-negotiable”.
Mini’s long-running commitment to retro design will also become a virtuous circle with the next generation of the hatchback. Hampf suggested this will take inspiration from the ‘R50’, the first of the BMW Minis.
He said: “Many people out there don’t actually have a recollection of the classic Mini but they do have a recollection of one of the Minis we have done in BMW’s ownership in the past 25 years. I will make sure to connect to this past.
“And this isn’t to say that we will become vintage, not at all. It’s an interpretation in the modern way of what we’ve done: a clever use of space or some smile-creating surprises in the car. Certainly some Britishness.”
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