Iconic British car-maker Mini has finally entered the Indian car market. The BMW-owned manufacturer will bring in four models, namely the Cooper, Cooper S, Cooper Convertible and Cooper S Countryman into India as completely built units (CBUs). The Mini range will be sold through three exclusive dealerships – Deutsche Motoren and Bird Automotive in New Delhi and Infinity Cars in Mumbai.
The Cooper hatchback is the most affordable car in the line-up. However, with an asking price of Rs 24.9 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), the Cooper is by no means cheap. Styling harks back to the original design; it’s classic yet looks contemporary at the same time. There are plenty of retro touches inside the cabin as well such as the large circular dials for the speedometer and tachometer. While the Mini Cooper can seat four, its small dimensions and three-door body style make it a car best suited to two occupants. The Mini Cooper comes with a 1.6-litre petrol engine that is good for 122bhp at 6000rpm and 16.3kgm of torque at 4250rpm. Those wanting more power can opt for the Mini Cooper S that features the same engine but with a twin-scroll turbocharger. Power is 184bhp at 5500rpm while max torque of 24.47kgm is produced between 1600-5000rpm. The Mini Cooper S has been priced at Rs 27.9 lakh.
The third model in the Mini line-up is the Cooper Convertible. The convertible adds the joy of open-top motoring to typical Mini charm. But given India’s extreme weather conditions, the Convertible’s fabric roof could prove impractical. The Convertible comes powered by the same 1.6-litre, 122bhp petrol engine that does duty on the Mini Cooper. Priced at Rs 29.99 lakh, the Cooper Convertible is still the cheapest convertible on sale in India today.
The Mini that makes most sense for India is the Cooper S Countryman. It features five doors with decent space for four occupants so it is sure to find favour with family buyers. Moreover, its raised ride height will do a better job at dealing with pothole-laden Indian roads. The Countryman costs Rs 31.99 lakh and uses a 184bhp 1.6-litre turbocharged engine.
Mini has not announced any plans yet of brining in its diesel powerplant, however the manufacturer has confirmed all India-bound cars will come with six-speed automatic transmissions.