While still thriving on its current third-generation iteration, MINI Philippines has imported the special limited edition Cooper S in its uniquely packaged Resolute Edition seen here. The Resolute edition is a package (iconic retro-modern styling) that is applied throughout both the internal combustion engine-powered model range and the current 135 kW EV as a swansong before the all-new redesign is sold building on the current chassis.
Yes, for model year 2024 and 2025 the ICE-engined models with the redesign will use the same platform while the all-new fully electrified 4th generation models (the Cooper E uses a 40.7-kWh battery and a single electric motor rated at 181 hp while the Cooper SE will feature a 54.2-kWh battery and a single electric motor good for 215 hp with the promise of up to 402-kilometers of range and sub-7-second acceleration from naught-100 km/h), in line with the 2030 target of complete electrification, will use a dedicated all-new EV platform developed by the joint venture between MINI’s BMW Group parent and China’s Great Wall Motors.
The MINI Cooper S Resolute Edition (189 bhp @ 5000-6000 rpm / 206 lb-ft @ 1350-4200 rpm, 7-speed DCT with steering wheel paddleshifts, 0-100 km/h in 6.5 seconds, top speed of 236 km/h, 6 L/100 kms. overall fuel economy) comes in three unique exterior colors; the signature homage Connaught Green used on the Austin 1100 Mini Cooper is enjoyed in what they call Rebel Green for the new finish, the second color is Enigmatic Black, and the third is seen here in our test unit in Nanuq White.
All the Resolute models get the same the roof and mirror caps in Pepper White, combined with unique hood stripes featuring tones of black and bronze with a matching foiled interior dashboard, very special bronze exterior trim on key design points that include the fuel cap with contrasting piano black (on the logos, central dual-exhaust, and front grille frame), 18” Resolute Pulse Spoke alloy wheels in polished black (the MINI Electric Resolute Edition model gets two-tone 17” MINI Electric Resolute Spoke alloys), unique door sill finishers, the front Sport bucket seats and matching rears are upholstered in bright and energetic Light Chequered cloth with contrasting stitched Black Pearl SensaTec leatherette upholstery, and uses an anthracite headliner.
The Resolute Edition packaging is really lovely and fun, which is very consistent with the dynamic character of the quintessential fun-to-drive subcompact hot hatch. Get past the bespoke trim and you have the finest Cooper S 3-door brilliance that we all covet. The suspension is at its most compliant ever, yet it can still be punishing on less than perfect road surfaces.
Still best used with no more than four adults on board, the MINI Cooper S is essentially the fun little premium hatch that we love. However, it truly comes to its own driven solo out of town where you can drive spiritedly and genuinely enjoy its extremely agile “go-kart” handling. You still get the transient overboost of 15 lb-ft (20 Nm) when you are in Sport mode and consistently drive with purpose so you can get as much 221 lb-ft of torque when the computer thinks you need it best.
The instruments are fully digital now, replacing the analog dials a few years back is a 5.5-inch gauge cluster that is mounted above the fully adjustable multi-function sport steering wheel. For the retail price of PhP 3,350,000.00 however, I wish the stock 6-speaker audio system was replaced with the optional 360-watt 12-speaker Harman /Kardon premium audio. Thankfully the standard audio does alright but it is not great, which is a pity since the sharp 8.8-inch central infotainment system with the cabin ambient lighting are very nice and uplifting. The retail price is steep but the MINI Cooper S Resolute Edition is truly special. For those particular buyers who have been dreaming about owning a high-quality sporting modern icon for years with full factory support and personality then it is irresistible.