The next generation of electric models from Mini could switch to rear-wheel drive. Although nothing has been officially confirmed yet, the upcoming BMW Neue Klasse models built on the new architecture that will debut next year will only be compatible with rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations. This could mean that Mini will have to adapt to the new setup.
So far, every Mini model since the legendary first-born in 1959 has been front-wheel drive, with the exception of the All4 versions on some Countryman, Paceman and Clubman trim levels, which have all-wheel drive. However, everything could change in the coming years.
The new platform, which debuts on the new BMW iX3 this year, supports various drive options, but the base single-engine versions can only be rear-wheel drive, as the rear-mounted engine is the only one that includes an integrated gearbox.
According to BMW Group engineers, there are currently no plans to adapt the Neue Klasse platform for use with front-wheel drive.
Mini's electric range is still relatively new: the Cooper and Countryman were introduced in 2023, and the Aceman electric car saw the light of day in 2024. But at some point, Mini will inevitably have to adopt a new platform that promises significant advances in range, active safety technologies, and charging speed, while also benefiting from the scale of the BMW Group.
An alternative solution for the Mini brand, however, would be to collaborate with another automaker that could potentially supply them with a front-wheel drive architecture, although at this stage this is pure speculation.