After years of anticipation MINI has released the first photos of the all new MINI hatch. Camouflaged of course. But that doesn’t mean there aren’t some interesting things to look at. So follow along as we break down what we can see (and infer) beneath the skin of that crazy camo.

First let’s give some quick background. What you’re looking at is the Chinese built all electric MINI hatch which will be released in 2023. It’s a slightly smaller car on the outside with a similar interior volume according to sources. The petrol powered version (not seen yet) will be built in the UK and will be based on a modified version of the UKL platform underpinning the current F56. Naturally MINI Design has styling both so the exterior and interior styling will mirror each other albeit with the petrol powered version having a slightly larger footprint.

Now let’s take a deep dive into the photos and see what we can uncover.

next generation MINI
The proportions are right. That was our first thought as we started to open up these images. Even the belt-line to wheel ratio seems better judged than the current F56 generation of cars.
next generation mini
MINI has tried to hide the lights and the horizontal bar that dissects them – but it’s clearly visible as is the dual LED design. Also visible is that the next generation light enclose will be smaller given that MINI is trying to hide its size by using the current dimensions as camo.
next generation mini
The overhang has been reduced but if you look closer the camo is actually making it larger that it is. Notices the way the faux light trim extends beyond the actual lights?
next generation mini
Another good look at that dual light design with the bisecting horizontal bar. Also note the more sculpted wheels which harken back to the R50 – a common complaint for the current generation of cars is how flat the shape is.
next generation mini
That is a massive center screen given what is draped over it. And clearly there’s plenty MINI wants to hide in front of the driver as well. We’d expect a large digital cluster, 10-12″ center screen and a much larger HUD.
next generation mini
Slimmer side mirrors will mark the end of the round design we’ve seen on MINIs since 2001. Also present is the integrate turn signals which free up the side scuttles to either be eliminated or just styling elements. What you see here is meant to throw us off and look like the current car.
next generation mini
Finally around back things get weird. That cut line around the taillights indicates a funky hatch similar to the Ora Cat (which will share some DNA with the Chinese built electric MINI hatch. Those taillights are likely completely fake and are there to hide what is coming. Also note the odd indents or vents in the lower portion of the hatch. Finally that’s the smallest rear overhang since the R50.

Have anything to add? Let us know in the comments section below.