BMW resolves Mini's major issue - lingering query remains

Over the years, I have reviewed numerous Mini cars and one consistent issue has been the ill-fitting infotainment display. Despite the interior design adopting a round central device, reminiscent of the original 1960s Minis, the transition to a digital display never quite worked out.

The rectangular display inserted into the middle of the round design resulted in wasted space at the top and bottom. I mentioned this in several reviews, including ones from 2017, 2018, and during the launch of the Mini Electric in 2020.

While Mini has not officially announced the next-generation Mini Electric, it is expected to release a 2024 model later in 2023. Mini has started discussing this upcoming model and has revealed a radical redesign of the central display.

Recently, I had the opportunity to see the new interior, and I am thrilled about the change that I have been advocating for years. The dashboard has undergone a complete redesign, and the central round device now functions as one large OLED display, encompassing the entire area.

This OLED display measures 240mm in diameter, equivalent to a massive 9.5 inches. Thanks to its OLED technology, it delivers deep blacks, vibrant colors, and from what I have witnessed, it looks absolutely sensational.

This expanded display provides ample space for the infotainment system, which offers a range of different views and animations. According to Mini, there are eight different designs that users can swipe through. This aligns perfectly with Mini's fun and playful personality, catering to younger buyers who seek an exhilarating go-kart driving experience.

The significant changes do not end with the central round display. Mini has also incorporated a feature from the Mini Aceman Concept, revealed in 2022, into the production model. This feature involves the use of internal projectors that can project color across the dashboard, with the projector positioned behind the screen. This builds upon the ambient lighting trend that has prevailed in the automotive industry for the past decade.

As a result, there is no longer a driver display, as all necessary information can be easily accessed on the central display. Driving-related information will likely be provided through a heads-up display. The exact balance of this setup will only become clear when we have the opportunity to test it firsthand. Nevertheless, the current Mini dials are already quite minimal.

Furthermore, this change signifies the adoption of Mini Operating System 9. This operating system will be based on Android, although it will not be Google-certified. Therefore, it will not solely revolve around Android apps, although it will support wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The new system will introduce an enhanced navigation experience, including an augmented reality view on the central display, as well as support for AirConsole gaming (where the phone serves as the controller) and services like Spotify. Compared to the previous infotainment offering, this will be a remarkable improvement.

Addressing one of Mini's major challenges with its legacy cars, this redesign resolves the issue with the infotainment display. However, there is still one remaining concern: electric range.

The second significant problem I have encountered with the Mini Electric is its limited range of approximately 140 miles. While a smaller battery results in a lower price, range anxiety remains a valid concern, and a greater range would always be advantageous. Currently, Mini has not disclosed any technical details about the performance of the new Mini Electric, but it has confirmed that it will be an electric vehicle. Mini refers to it as the "new Mini Cooper Electric." With a fresh design and a stunning internal display, it presents an electrifying prospect.