MINI creators combine classic and contemporary for winning formula

MINI's round headlights and hexagon grille are the friendly face of the brand, which has smiled to the world for more than half a century.

The design of the new MINI, unveiled in 2001, was a key reason behind the car's success as it brought the simple 1960s model up to date with 21st century styling.

From the earliest 1959 prototype to the latest models, MINI designers have been guided by the concept of "from original to original".

The new-generation MINI features frameless coupe-style glass, which makes the roof appear suspended. The design transforms the small car into something bigger, stronger and more dynamic.

A side view of the new-generation MINI shows off the sporty lines and gives a nod to the car's tradition of "wheels in the four corners".

The ethos behind MINI's design has always been to maintain the original while keeping up with contemporary trends.

The new MINI has the same wheelbase as the classic but for safety reasons is about 6 cm longer. Its exterior has also been enhanced for a more masculine and sporty feel.

A new frontage with a larger front grill is another characteristic of the new MINI. The license plate at the front is embedded into the front grill, flanked either side with the iconic headlights.

The slightly raised body makes the new MINI more dynamic and stretches its length, making it appear smoother and more elegant.

The larger rear windows give the driver and passengers better views.

MINI proudly shunned the "plastic craze" of the 1970s and 1980s and was praised for its wide use of chrome throughout the decades.

Today the use of chrome is more marked than ever and can be seen on the new MINI's windshield, rear window, grille, headlights and rear lamps.

Designers said the chrome features make MINI stick to its promise of "from original to original."

Creating as much space as possible in a small area has been the fundamental concept behind MINI's interior design since its first generation. Innovative and concise instrument panel design create a more spacious driving seat in the new model.

The classic round instruments and large chrome buttons remain and only enhance the go-cart-like driving experience.

Tailor-made experience

MINI's compact design allows drivers to swiftly navigate traffic and park quickly and easily in the tightest of spaces, all with great style and personality.

"Our situation is that almost every MINI on the road is different. It is almost impossible to find two identical MINI cars," said a MINI designer.

The new interior uses top materials including leather, wood and aluminum for greater comfort and space.

Changing the iconic central control panel is taboo for MINI designers but minor adjustments, which are allowed, make all the difference.

To cater to the increasing number of buyers looking for tailor-made cars MINI now offers drivers more choices in paint types and color. Buyers can stamp their personalities on the car according to their style, be it sporty, classic, elegant or lively.

Among the new MINI's 11 body color choices, five are newly added colors including Volcanic Orange, Blazing Red and Thunder Grey.

The MINI design team has always looked for a balance between old and new, to keep the essence of the original alive but move with the times and meet the needs of today's drivers.

Contact the writers at xuxiao@chinadaily.com.cn and zhangzhao@chinadaily.com.cn

(China Daily 04/20/2014 page10)