New Mini hatch leads big push

Next-gen three-door to take the firm into a new era of superminis, SUVs and an MPV

- FELIX PAGE

This is our first look at the next-generation Mini three-door hatchback, which is due to be launched in 2023. It will spearhead a wide-ranging reform of the Mini line-up, under which the brand will enter new segments, overhaul its production processes and go completely electric by the early 2030s.

The hatchback will continue to be built at Oxford (which will also host production of the Convertible variant, currently built by VDL Nedcar in the Netherlands, from 2025), with Mini committing to the future of its British factory as “the home of the Mini brand”.

Despite the car’s heavy camouflage, it’s plain to see that Mini’s flagship model will retain the squat, compact proportions that have been core to its appeal since it was relaunched by BMW in 2000. However, revamped lights at each end hint at the extensive visual refresh for the Fiat 500 rival, which has been on sale in its current form since 2013.