On the Road: FQ test drives the MINI of the future

10 April 2025
By Fashion Quarterly

Iconic design meets next-gen innovation in the newly reimagined MINI - a bold blend of cutting-edge technology and sustainable luxury.

The MINI Aceman. Credit: Supplied.

When Team FQ jumped behind the wheel of the reimagined MINI we weren’t just taking a car for a spin – we were stepping into a new kind of lifestyle. One that’s sustainable, smart, and undeniably chic.

The MINI has come a long way in its 66 years. While it still carries the iconic design and performance it’s always been known for, the latest version is packed with modern updates that speak directly to the way we live (and drive) now. Think customisation, high-tech features, thoughtful design and a focus on doing better for the planet. In short: it’s a very stylish step into the future.

A new era of personalisation

First things first, this MINI knows how to set a mood. With eight distinct Experience Modes, the car offers an unprecedented level of customisation that allows the driver to tailor every aspect of the driving experience. Each mode transforms the vehicle’s lighting, sound, and even the driving dynamics to create a completely immersive atmosphere. 

In Go-Kart Mode, the interior lighting shifts to a striking red hue, while the suspension, steering, and throttle response tighten, preparing the driver for an agile, dynamic ride. Personal Mode, on the other hand, invites the driver to upload their favourite image to the central console, with the lighting subtly adjusting to reflect the colours in the photograph – a truly bespoke touch. Our favourite ‘easter egg’? Selfie Mode. Thanks to the in-built interior camera, every road trip or parking-lot glam shot can be captured with ease. Because why shouldn’t your car be as content-ready as you are?

Sustainability at the forefront

While the MINI’s charm and innovation are undeniable, its commitment to sustainability is equally impressive. The latest models showcase a strong investment in eco-conscious design, with 99% of production waste now being recycled. MINI has also transitioned to using light-alloy cast wheels made from 70% secondary aluminium—a shift that reduces CO₂ emissions by up to 80% compared to traditional manufacturing methods.

In addition, the brand’s move to eliminate leather and chrome across all models represents a significant step forward in sustainable luxury. By opting for recycled textiles and raw materials, MINI has reduced emissions by up to 98%. As the brand continues its journey towards a fully electric future, these innovations reflect a bold and meaningful commitment to both environmental responsibility and the evolution of modern driving.

The MINI legacy, reinvented

For 66 years, the MINI has stood as a symbol of compact brilliance, combining iconic design with a sense of individuality and charm. The latest model, however, represents a bold leap forward. In a world where style, substance, and sustainability are no longer mutually exclusive, the new MINI offers a remarkable blend of all three.

Team FQ left our test drive feeling genuinely impressed. Clever, endlessly customisable, and brimming with personality, this next-generation MINI ticks every box—style, performance, and sustainability—all while maintaining its signature sense of fun.

This isn’t just a car that gets you from A to B. It’s a companion that makes every journey feel intentional, elevated, and effortlessly enjoyable.

For more information and to test drive the new MINI yourself, visit mini.co.nz

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