German tuner works its magic on latest generation ICE-powered hatchback
- AC Schnitzer has given the Mini Cooper S aerodynamic and chassis upgrades.
- The model comes with a new body kit, 19-inch alloy wheels and visible exhaust tips.
- There’s no power boost, but owners can choose to lower the springs and spacers.
Mini is gearing up to launch full-blown John Cooper Works variants for ICE and EV hatchbacks, but until then, the Cooper S remains firmly at the top of the list as the hottest car you can buy. Meanwhile, AC Schnitzer is looking to get a piece of the action with a new package that enhances the Cooper S’s attitude with a new body kit, custom wheels, and visible exhaust tips.
In the latest generation of Mini Cooper S, even the sporty JCW version has hidden exhaust pipes. AC Schnitzer has none of that. They installed a set of centrally mounted exhaust pipes, each 100 mm (3.9 inches) in diameter, with carbon fiber trim to create a more aggressive edge. This is a detail that a factory should have.
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In addition to a louder, more menacing exhaust note, the tuners also added some aerodynamic tricks to enhance the Mini’s appearance. A two-tier splitter at the front connects to reinforced side skirts and a serious rear diffuser. Completing the makeover is a larger rear wing, black accents between the taillights, and decals for extra style.
For Mini owners who want the signature AC Schnitzer stance, there’s a new set of 19-inch AC1 alloy wheels available in two-tone or black finishes. The tuner showed off both options (one on each side) in their demo car, a Mini Cooper S JCW Trim with a Chili Pepper Red exterior.
The Mini Cooper S is known for its fun driving characteristics, but for some, lower is better. AC Schnitzer’s optional lowering springs bring the Mini 15-25 mm (0.6-1 in) closer to the ground and can be combined with 10 mm (0.4 in) spacers.
Interior modifications are kept to a minimum – just a new aluminum foot pedal and an equally sleek key holder. Simple, but effective.
As for power, AC Schnitzer has yet to crack the Mini’s turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. So you’re still looking at the factory’s 201 hp (150 kW / 204 PS) and 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) of torque. However, AC Schnitzer’s history with previous generations of the Mini Cooper S suggests we’ll soon see more horsepower added.
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