A must-have option for Mini buyers since the new model was launched back in 2001 has been the Chili Pack option – but not any more, because the firm has fully overhauled the specification process for buying a new Mini.
The multitude of add-on options – including the Chili Pack and its sister Pepper Pack – has been eradicated, with Mini now basing options around three ‘styles’: Classic, Sport and Exclusive.
This, reckons Mini, will make it much easier to buy a car. Indeed, the process has been narrowed down to just five steps, it says: choose model, performance, style, packs, personalisation… and that’s it.
Here’s how it works:
1: Model
There are five: select from 3-door Hatch, 5-door Hatch, Convertible, Clubman or Countryman
2: Engine
One (1.5 petrol), Cooper (1.5 petrol), Cooper D (2.0 diesel) and Cooper S (2.0 petrol) now relate to engine, in the new world of buying a Mini
3: Style
This is the new bit: Classic, Sport or Exclusive
4: Packs
Don’t panic, there are just two here: Comfort or Comfort Plus
5: Personalise
This is where you pick exterior and interior colours and trims, plus other options and is likely to remain the most confusing bit of all. Mini will perhaps be hoping people don’t get too carried away here, and stick to the option packs it details: Comfort, Comfort Plus, Navigation and Navigation Plus.
Even the most basic Mini now gets more standard kit. All have automatic headlights and wipers, ambient interior lighting and the exterior Mini logo projection gadget that shines the badge onto the ground at night.
Mini UK director David George said: “We know that customers today want a simple purchase experience, and this thinking has been central to the development of our new line-up.
“We have reduced complexity in our product offering, and harmonised options across the whole range, ensuring an easy customer journey whether in one of our retailers or on mini.co.uk.”
Yes, online: Mini has launched a buy online sales system – the firm says prospective buyers can configure, arrange a test drive, agree finance and payment details and even get a trade-in value. The retailer steps in at the end to finalise the delivery date.
The new Mini styles
So what do you get with the three new Mini style packs? Here’s the key features for each.
Classic
A 6.5-inch infotainment screen, DAB radio with Bluetooth and intelligent emergency call
Sport
John Cooper Works aerodynamic kit, spoiler, alloy wheels and suspension, John Cooper Works bucket seats and steering wheel, anthracite headliner. Only offered on Cooper and Cooper S
Exclusive
Exclusive alloy wheels, chrome exterior detailing, Mini Yours Lounge upholstery and steering wheel, Mini Yours trim and chrome detail. Again, only on Cooper and Cooper S.