Mini is preparing to bring two distinctive models to the Indian market, with the new-generation Cooper SE and the exclusive Paul Smith Edition scheduled to launch on November 27. The announcement is likely to attract attention from electric-car buyers as well as enthusiasts who appreciate Mini’s blend of retro styling and modern technology.
While the company has confirmed the launch date, it has not revealed the variants, prices or complete India-specific specifications. The new Cooper SE will arrive with a larger battery pack and an updated design, while the Paul Smith Edition will add exclusive styling inspired by the British fashion designer. Here is what prospective buyers can expect from the upcoming models.
Launch
Mini India has confirmed that the new Cooper SE and Paul Smith Edition will be launched on November 27. The company is expected to reveal more details about the models, including their prices and variant line-up, closer to the launch.
The Cooper SE is not a completely unfamiliar name in India. Its first-generation version went on sale in February 2022 before being discontinued in December 2025. The latest-generation model made its global debut in October 2023, and its arrival will bring the updated electric hatchback to Indian customers.
The Paul Smith Edition will be launched alongside the standard model. However, Mini has not yet confirmed which body style will be offered in India. This detail will be important because the special edition is available in several body styles in international markets.
Performance
The new Mini Cooper SE is powered by an electric motor producing 215bhp and 330Nm of torque. These figures should give the compact electric hatchback lively acceleration, particularly in city driving.
Mini claims that the car can accelerate from 0 to 100kmph in 6.7 seconds. That makes it a performance-focused option in the premium electric hatchback segment, where quick acceleration and responsive power delivery are important selling points.
The electric motor is paired with a larger 54.2kWh battery pack. This is a notable upgrade for the new model and should help improve its usability for buyers who want an electric car for both urban journeys and occasional longer trips.
Range
The new Cooper SE is claimed to deliver a WLTP-certified driving range of up to 402km on a full charge. Actual range in India will depend on several factors, including traffic conditions, driving style, weather and the use of air conditioning.
The larger battery should make the car more practical than its predecessor, although buyers should wait for India-specific range information before making a purchase decision.
Charging performance is another important part of the package. The Cooper SE supports DC fast charging at up to 95kW. According to the claimed figures, charging the battery from 10 to 80 per cent takes approximately 30 minutes under suitable conditions.
This should make quick charging stops more convenient, particularly when travelling beyond city limits. However, charging time can vary depending on the charger, battery temperature and other operating conditions.
Design
The latest Cooper SE retains several familiar Mini design elements while introducing a cleaner and more contemporary appearance. The round LED headlamps remain, preserving the brand’s recognisable front-end styling.
The headlights also feature selectable light signatures, allowing owners to change their appearance. Another noticeable update is the octagonal front grille, which gives the electric hatchback a more modern identity.
At the rear, the car gets flush-fitted tail lamps that contribute to its cleaner design. Overall, the new model aims to retain the traditional Mini character without looking like a simple update of the older car.
The compact proportions and distinctive styling should continue to be major attractions for buyers looking for an electric car with a strong visual identity.
Interior
The cabin receives a substantial technology-focused update. One of its main highlights is the large circular OLED display, which serves as the central interface for the infotainment system and several vehicle functions.
Mini has also used textile finishes on the dashboard, adding a different material texture to the interior. The cabin combines this design approach with modern digital features.
Other equipment includes a voice assistant and a parking assistant supported by 12 ultrasonic sensors and four cameras. These systems are designed to make low-speed manoeuvres and parking easier in tight spaces.
The car also supports a smartphone-based digital key, allowing compatible smartphones to be used for vehicle access. This feature adds convenience by reducing the need to carry a conventional key.
The final equipment list for India will be confirmed at launch, so buyers should check which features are included in the locally offered version.
Edition
The Paul Smith Edition is a special version inspired by the British designer’s distinctive approach to colour, patterns and detailing. It combines Mini’s familiar styling with exclusive exterior and interior touches.
Globally, the special edition is available across multiple body styles, including three-door, five-door, electric and three-door convertible versions. However, Mini India has not confirmed which configuration will be introduced locally.
This means buyers should not assume that every international version will be offered in India. The company is expected to clarify the body style and specifications at the launch.
Styling
The electric Paul Smith Edition gets exclusive cosmetic details that distinguish it from the standard Cooper SE. One of the available exterior colours is Midnight Black, paired with a black roof featuring glossy and matte black stripes.
Statement Grey is another colour option. Nottingham Green accents add contrast to the exterior, appearing on the mirrors, octagonal grille and wheel hub caps. The hub caps also feature Paul Smith lettering.
The special edition rides on 18-inch Night Flash Spoke Black alloy wheels, giving it a distinctive appearance.
Inside, the cabin receives Nightshade Blue seats and black knitted surfaces with tone-on-tone stripes. The door-opening experience is also personalised with a projected ‘Hello’ light.
Further details include Paul Smith’s signature stripes on the steering wheel and a floor mat featuring the designer’s hand-drawn rabbit. These small touches give the special edition a more individual character without changing the fundamental design of the Cooper SE.
Expectations
The Paul Smith Edition is expected to focus mainly on cosmetic upgrades rather than mechanical changes. Based on the international specification described, there is no indication of a separate powertrain or performance package for the special edition.
That means its appeal will likely come from its exclusive colours, materials and designer-inspired details. Buyers who want the Cooper SE’s electric performance with a more distinctive appearance may find this version particularly interesting.
Pricing will be a key factor. Mini has not announced the prices of either model, and the special edition could command a premium over the standard Cooper SE depending on its equipment and positioning.
The November 27 launch should answer the biggest questions surrounding both cars, including India-specific specifications, available body styles, features and prices.
The new Cooper SE brings a larger battery, a claimed 402km WLTP range and updated cabin technology to Mini’s electric line-up in India. The Paul Smith Edition adds a more exclusive design direction for buyers who want something different. With prices and local specifications still under wraps, the launch announcement will determine how competitive and appealing these new arrivals are in India’s premium electric-car market.
