Internal combustion isn’t dead in the Mini just yet. A petrol version of the 2023 Mini Hatch has been spied during road testing near the Arctic Circle.
Don’t get this Mini Hatch prototype confused with the all-new, all-electric hatch that Mini is developing alongside this facelift of the current-generation ICE model, as they’re entirely different vehicles under the skin.
This spied prototype with its swirly yellow camouflage is built on a heavily modified version of the existing car’s UKL1 platform. This platform is currently used in the BMW 1-Series, 2-Series Gran Coupe, X1, X2, as well as the Mini Countryman and Clubman. It’ll be built at Mini’s Oxford plant in the UK as well, like the existing Mini Hatch.
The ICE-powered Mini prototype retains the fundamental F56-generation Mini Hatch styling with its bubbly, rounded hatchback silhouette and familiar tail lights with its Union Jack lighting signature.
It’s not yet confirmed, but the powertrains are expected to carry over from the current generation Mini. Currently, the Mini Hatch powertrain lineup consists of a selection of turbocharged three- and four-cylinder engines. Some powertrains could receive some modifications to meet the latest safety emissions although it’s uncertain which ones will.
Mini has confirmed the three-door Hatch will launch in time for the 2023 model year. It’ll be followed by a convertible, a larger Countryman crossover, and a smaller crossover to bridge the size gap.
Come 2030, every single Mini will be electric, so regard the facelift spied here to be the last-gen ICE-powered Mini – ever! Electrification will also include the performance-oriented John Cooper Works brand.
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