The internal combustion Mini is set to continue on for another few years, based on a heavily modified version of the current F56 model’s platform, and our spies have caught the hot hatch version testing in Germany. Although the Mini John Cooper Works was given a mild refresh for the 2022 model year, this will be a much more meaningful update to the vehicle. The camouflage is still significant but would appear to be concealing a thoroughly reworked front end.
The front overhangs look slightly
shortened, even though it’s hard to tell because of the camo. The surface it
hides, however, looks considerably different and less complex than the existing
front bumper. With fewer levels and clear vents, the brand may be looking to
make the car’s front end simpler and cleaner – though that may make it less
aggressive, too. The headlights don’t look production-ready, so Mini may be
planning changes there, too. Moving back slightly, the wing mirrors look bigger
and appear to have integrated signals.
At the back, the taillights are very
familiar, despite their controversial detailing. At the very bottom, behind a
hitch, we can see a centrally mounted exhaust outlet. Unlike the model on sale
today, there is only one exhaust tip, though that may change by the time the
JCW makes it to market. Big changes are also expected inside. As is the case
with most modern cars, the new Mini should get a big touch screen, though we
expect it to be round, as tradition dictates. Buttons are expected to be
eschewed in favor of touch controls and our spies report that the shift knob on
cars with the automatic transmission will move to the right under the big round
screen.
Details remain scant but Mini has
previously said that it won’t unveil the new JCW until 2023, suggesting it will
be a model year 2024 vehicle. It will sit alongside the new Mini EV in the
lineup.
