For those who firmly imagine that greater is all the time higher, MINI is outdoing BMW within the exhaust sport. The brand new John Cooper Works hatchback and convertible characteristic a centrally mounted exhaust tip bigger than something you’ll discover on an M Efficiency or perhaps a full-fledged M automobile. This surprising element was revealed by MINI Head of Design Holger Hampf. He beforehand led BMW Group Designworks and has held his present function since October 1, 2024.
In an interview with BMWBLOG at Auto Shanghai 2025, Hampf informed us that a lot of the design discussions centered on the automobile’s rear finish. The again of the F66 and F67 modified essentially the most in comparison with the outgoing era. He acknowledged that some lovers miss the outdated dual-exhaust setup. Moreover, he famous a broader pattern within the business: the return of seen exhaust ideas. For instance, BMW is becoming quad pipes even on M Efficiency fashions as small because the M135 and X1 M35i.
As reported a couple of month in the past, the most recent gasoline JCW fashions nonetheless technically have a twin exhaust system. Hidden beneath the rear bumper is one other single tip. Nonetheless, it solely turns into energetic when the engine revs above 3,000 rpm or when it’s chilly. This secondary pipe is routinely engaged and might’t be triggered manually. From our test drive, it was extra noticeable from contained in the cabin than from the skin.
For followers of combustion-powered MINIs, there’s excellent news: the Oxford-based model has dropped its plan to go totally electrical by the tip of the last decade. Meaning ICE energy will stay on into the 2030s, although how lengthy it lasts stays unclear. Logically, the transition to a totally electrical lineup will occur steadily, possible starting in markets with the strictest emissions requirements. We’re primarily speaking in regards to the 27 international locations that make up the European Union.
Within the meantime, there’s nonetheless loads of alternative to get pleasure from a gas-powered MINI with a BMW B38 or B48 below the hood. You can even get a B47 diesel within the Countryman D. Simply don’t count on a guide gearbox as a result of the stick shift is unfortunately not making a comeback.
