Some things should never change. But when it comes to MINI, a new model is as much about getting closer to the heart of what makes driving great, as it is about moving with the times. This couldn’t be more the case than with the fresh new MINI originals: the MINI 3-Door, MINI 5-Door and MINI Convertible.

These are the models where it all began – they’re the cornerstone of all things MINI. That fun, fast, low-to-the ground go-kart driving experience, amazing design, personality and individual style. In short, the keys to everything that makes city living so exhilarating.

While they may be new, the updated holy trinity of originals are more MINI than ever. At the heart of MINI’s trademark zippy pace and handling is its low centre of gravity, wide track and short overhangs. Back in the ’50s, when the very first MINI was designed, these elements were the secret that made it a sporting legend, injecting fun into a new generation’s experience of city driving. This is still very much in the DNA of MINI’s three hatches.

From the front, the new MINIs are even more expressive than ever before. The instantly recognisable circular headlights are accentuated with a striking black panel on the standard halogens, and given extra personality on the LED headlights with rings appearing on the daytime driving lights and indicator lights. But the rear lights steal the show: in homage to MINI’s British origins, they now appear in a Union Jack design. You’ll also notice a slightly refreshed, two-dimensional “flat design” of MINI’s logo, which features on the steering wheel, central instrument screen and remote control.

Everywhere, the new MINI’s are more customisable than ever, allowing you to express yourself with a broader palette of choices. MINI now comes in three new additional colours: Emerald Grey metallic, Starlight Blue metallic and Solaris Orange metallic. While a broad selection of seat surfaces, interior surfaces and colour lines add a touch of individual style to the interior. The MINI Excitement Package offers a projection of the MINI logo onto the ground in front of the driver’s side door when you open it.

If that’s not enough, the MINI Yours Customised programme takes the possibilities even further. You can now create your own designs for customised side scuttles, decorative strips for the interior on the passenger side, LED door sill finishers and even LED door projectors. The options to make your MINI your own are endless.

The MINI updates go deeper than looks. The engines for the new models have had detailed updates, which not only means more driving fun, but also lower fuel consumption and less CO2. They’ve tweaked the basic engine as well as the MINI TwinPower Turbo Technology, electronics and more, so that the improved efficiency comes with a reward of added fun! On some models, a 7-speed Steptronic transmission with double clutch is optionally available, making for super-fast gearshifts and sporty acceleration.

But modern city life is about being connected as much as it’s about getting out and around in style. So, with that in mind, MINI Connected – MINI’s intelligent services and apps – deliver more information and entertainment to your MINI than ever before. MINI Connected hooks up with your smartphone, marks events on your calendar, maps out your route, helps you dodge traffic and generally aims to keep your life stress-free. You can even check where your car is, and how much fuel it has from your phone.

The addition of Concierge Services transforms your MINI into a personal assistant, helping you book restaurants, find places to stay when you’re travelling and even recommending places you should visit. At the touch of a button, it essentially opens the doors of the city to you and your MINI. Other cool optional extras include wireless charging for your smartphone, and optional preparation for Apple CarPlay.

While staying up-to-date with the world is important, it’s vital to stay true to your roots. That’s what makes these three new MINIs geared to lay on the ultimate experience of the city today, just as their ancestors revolutionised city life in the ’60s. It’s why, if you love an urban adventure, you’re going to want to embrace it in the car that feels the same way you do.

Want to explore your city with the updated MINI 3-Door, MINI 5-Door or MINI Convertible? The new originals will be introduced in South Africa during Q2 of 2018. Sign up now to stay updated.