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2018 Mini range updates: Apple CarPlay, revised displays coming Q3 2017

Mini has announced a number of range-wide updates this week for July production, including the addition of Apple CarPlay mirroring, along with a new driver's cluster and head-up display.


All models in the line-up - which includes the Hatch, Clubman wagon and Countryman SUV - will get a new cockpit instrument layout with an additional "night" design and a revised fuel level display.

The night mode now features white numbers and letters rather than the current orange, which also applies to the head-up display (HUD). A new function for the vehicle's key also allows owners to save individual settings for the HUD, exterior mirrors and optional electrically-adjustable seats with memory.

Operation of the head-up display and selectable driving modes has also been revised as part of the update, with a new toggle switch under the air-conditioning controls (driver modes) and through the infotainment system (HUD).

Meanwhile, the Clubman and Countryman model lines will be the first in the Mini range to offer Apple CarPlay compatibility as part of the 'Media Pack XL' or 'Tech Pack' options through the larger 8.8-inch central display, though it appears the smaller Hatch 3-Door and 5-Door models miss out for the time being.

However, the Hatch and Convertible do exclusively get a new 'Alertness Assistant', which is essentially a driver fatigue monitor, which assesses driving behaviour during longer trips and will prompt drivers to take a break with a graphic displayed on the central screen.

Additionally, the Mini Convertible will have the option of the Always Open package, which adds niceties like keyless access, heated front seats, a wind deflector, and a timer which records how long you have driven with the roof open.

The Mini range updates will come into effect from July 2017 production.


Australia

Mini's local arm has confirmed these updates will make their way to the Australian market, which should be available from late in the third quarter of 2017.

However, the Mini Convertible's 'Always Open' package remains under consideration at this stage.

"This is in the assessment pipeline for us, to see how it could fit within our existing option package structure," said Adam Davis, product communications manager at BMW Group Australia.

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