Special edition MINIs tend to be outrageously
expensive and this year’s JCW Hardtop International Orange Edition carried a
base price of nearly US$ 40,000 before options and destination charges were
factored in. Thankfully, MINI has gone in another direction with the 2019
Oxford Edition which costs about half as much as the aforementioned model.
Designed to appeal to college students and recent
graduates, the Oxford Edition starts at US$ 19,750 for the three-door hatchback
and US$ 20,750 for the five-door model. Of course, that’s excluding an US$ 850
destination and handling fee.
While the prices are relatively low, the model comes
with US$ 6,900 worth of optional equipment as standard. The company didn’t release
detailed specifications, but confirmed the car has a panoramic moonroof and
17-inch alloy wheels with either a silver or black finish.
Most of the upgrades occur in the interior as
drivers will find heated front seats, an anthracite headliner and a MINI
Connected infotainment system with a 6.5-inch display. The model also features
MINI Teleservices, a rear-view camera and park distance control.
Power is provided by a 1.5-liter TwinPower Turbo
three-cylinder engine that produces 134 hp and 219
Nm of torque. It is paired to a standard six-speed automatic transmission, but
a six-speed manual is also available. With the latter gearbox, the three-door
hatchback can accelerate from 0-96 km/h in 7.4 seconds and return up
to 32 mpg highway.
Now for the bad news. The model is only available to
students who are currently enrolled in an accredited two- or four-year college
or university. MINI will also make the car available to students enrolled in
post-bachelor degree programs as well as graduates who completed their degree
within the past year.
The MINI Oxford Edition is currently available at
dealerships and MINI USA’s Randy Clements said it “represents a tremendous
value for college students and recent graduates who are looking for a fun,
stylish car that won’t break the bank.”
