The next-generation Mini Cooper Electric could make a major change to the model’s traditional driving layout. According to a report from Autocar, Mini is considering moving the electric Cooper from front-wheel drive to rear-wheel drive. The change would come as the company develops the next-generation EV around BMW’s newer Gen6 platform, which could also bring significant improvements in performance and driving dynamics.
BMW Gen6 Platform Could Enable Rear-Wheel Drive
The next Cooper Electric is reportedly being developed around BMW’s Gen6 architecture, which underpins the Neue Klasse i3 and iX3. The platform is designed primarily around rear-wheel drive, unlike the architecture used by the current Mini Cooper Electric. Its larger rear motors use integrated gearboxes, while the smaller front motors currently lack the same configuration. This makes rear-wheel drive the more natural setup.
More Power Could Be On The Way
The platform change could also give the Cooper Electric a substantial increase in performance. The current model offers up to 215 HP, while the next generation could receive a significantly more powerful electric drivetrain. Mini has not confirmed an output figure yet. However, the move to BMW’s newer platform could give engineers greater flexibility when developing high-performance versions of the small electric hatchback.
Rear-Wheel Drive Could Transform Driving Dynamics
Switching to rear-wheel drive would represent a major change for the Mini Cooper. Front-wheel drive has been a defining feature of the modern Cooper, helping the small hatchback deliver predictable handling and strong traction. A rear-driven electric motor could instead improve weight distribution and allow the front wheels to focus primarily on steering. This could create a more engaging driving experience.
Mini Could Prioritise Driving Fun
BMW development boss Joachim Post has reportedly indicated that Mini will choose the layout that provides the best overall package. He also highlighted driving pleasure as a key priority for the brand. That approach could support the move to rear-wheel drive if engineers determine that it offers better handling and performance. However, Mini has yet to officially confirm the drivetrain configuration.
Combustion Cooper Could Also Go Rear-Wheel Drive
The layout change may not be limited to the electric model. A separate report suggests the BMW 1 Series could return to a rear-wheel-drive architecture in 2028. Since the combustion-powered Cooper shares its current platform with the 1 Series, Mini could potentially make a similar transition. This would create a more consistent rear-driven character across the Cooper family.
EV & Petrol Cooper Use Different Platforms
Although the electric and combustion-powered Cooper share similar styling, their technical foundations are different. The current EV uses a newer dedicated architecture, while the petrol model is essentially a heavily revised version of the previous-generation Cooper. This gives Mini greater flexibility when developing future versions. The next EV’s move to BMW’s Gen6 platform could therefore represent a much larger technical change.
Mini Cooper Design Will Retain Its Identity
Despite the potential drivetrain transformation, Mini does not plan to abandon the Cooper’s familiar proportions. Design chief Holger Hampf has said that preserving the model’s proportions and visual identity remains non-negotiable. Therefore, the next-generation EV could introduce major mechanical changes underneath while maintaining the compact dimensions, distinctive silhouette and recognisable design language associated with the Cooper.
Rear-Wheel Drive Could Create A New Cooper Character
A rear-wheel-drive electric Cooper would give Mini an opportunity to redefine the driving experience without changing its core design philosophy. Electric motors can deliver instant torque, while rear-wheel drive could provide a more playful balance. At the same time, engineers will need to maintain the compact packaging and everyday usability expected from a Mini. The final setup will depend on development priorities.
Prices In The Middle East
Mini has not announced pricing for the next-generation Cooper Electric in Middle Eastern markets. The new model is still several years away, and specifications have yet to be confirmed. If introduced in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain and Oman, pricing will depend on battery capacity, power output, equipment and local market costs. Higher-performance versions could command a significant premium.
Launch Timeline & Middle East Availability
The next-generation Mini Cooper Electric is expected to arrive in the coming years, although Mini has not confirmed an exact launch date. A move to BMW’s Gen6 platform could make the model significantly different from the current EV. If the rear-wheel-drive configuration is confirmed, the next Cooper Electric could combine Mini’s traditional compact proportions with a new BMW-based electric architecture and a more performance-focused character.
