Mini updates its 2022 model lineup with revised looks and better tech

In a world where every other carmaker is going the all-electric way, Mini is certainly the odd-one-out as it updates its entire model lineup for the 2022 model year. What’s new? Exterior bits and bobs, new wheel designs, colors, and a “build-your-own” experience on the consumer website. Even with the addition of features like adaptive cruise control and heated steering wheel, prices remain more-or-less similar to the current models on sale. 

First off, the 2022 Mini Cooper Hardtop & Convertible. The most famous of the Minis now come with integrated air curtains on the front bumper and no fog lights, while a new hexagon grille sports a safety bar below a body panel to help with aerodynamics. The Cooper S and John Cooper Works variants get a couple of intakes with glossy surround, found on either side of the central intake.

At the back, the rear apron mimics the hexagon at the front with a new framing for the twin-tailpipe exhaust. Those who opt for the JCW models can also get their diffuser. Two new wheel choices and three color choices including Island Blue, Rooftop Grey, and Zesty Yellow complete the exterior.

On the inside, every Cooper buyer gets an 8.8-inch screen as standard, which, according to Mini, is “modernized and features a new user experience and two available color schemes.” A redesigned steering wheel (heated) with integrated buttons and driving assistance features like lane departure warning and active cruise control is standard. The 2022 Mini Cooper Hardtop 2 Door starts at $22,900 with the JCW Hardtop model starting at $32,900.

Second on the list, the 2022 Mini Cooper Clubman & Convertible. Both the models underwent a major update last year, so there isn’t much to differentiate between the current models on sale and the 2022 model year cars. Although the top speed has marginally increased – 155mph as opposed to 149mph. 

All the models in Clubman and Countryman range now come with a lane departure warning system and a 12-month subscription to satellite radio. The Signature and Iconic variants of the JCW versions of both the models get the Driver Assistance package with park assist, HUD, active cruise control, as well as the Convenience Package with an alarm, rear armrests with cupholders, and a picnic cushion.

The Clubman can now be had in two new colors – Island Blue and Rooftop Gray, while the Multitone Roof on the Iconic spec can be paired with all colors apart from Chili Red, British Racing Green IV, and Coral Red. No color changes on the Countryman, sadly. However, both the models stay the same, price-wise – base-spec Clubman starts at $29,900 (+ $3,000 for AWD) and the Countryman starts at $29,100 (+ $2,000 for AWD).

Next up, the 2022 Mini Cooper SE. Perhaps the best-looking EV out there. At least in my opinion. The updates on the 2022 Mini Cooper SE include everything on the 2022 Mini Cooper model, including new bumpers and grille. The SE also comes with a yellow-accented S and closed radiator grille. New wheel options in the form of 16 and 17-inches complete the look.

On the inside, as expected, the Cooper SE boasts a bigger screen, new heated steering wheel, lane departure warning, and satellite radio as standard, while the higher trims get front parking sensors, parking assistants, and active cruise control. The company is also giving the SE two new colors, Multitone Roof, special Electric Collection wheels, new upholstery, and new interior surface aluminum. Prices remain the same – $29,900 excluding destination.

Power outputs remain the same for all the models: the JCW models can be had with 134hp, 1.5L, turbocharged, in-line-3, a 189hp, 2.0L, turbocharged, in-line-4, and a 228hp, 2.0L motor. Powering the Mini Cooper SE EV is a 181hp, 199 lb-ft of torque unit. The JCW Clubman and Countryman models make 301hp from the turbocharged 4-cyl engine whereas the Cooper SE Countryman delivers 221hp in total.

With all the updates, Mini Coopers aren’t cheap as they used to be, for obvious reasons, but with more safety, power, and tech, the front-wheel-driven cars should be fun to take a ride in. Probably more than ever before.