BMW Mini Korea announced on Thursday the launch of 11 special edition models this year, starting with the highly anticipated All-Electric Mini Cooper Paul Smith Edition. This move aims to solidify its leading position in the premium compact car market in Korea.
The decision follows overwhelming demand for the All-Electric Mini Paul Smith Edition, with the initial 100 pre-ordered units selling out within a month. To meet this strong interest, the company has secured additional inventory. An internal combustion engine (ICE) version of the Paul Smith Edition is also planned for release in the latter half of the year.
“We have witnessed significant demand for our limited-edition models,” stated Jung Soo-won, head of BMW Korea Mini, during a press conference in Seoul. “These special editions allow us to showcase Mini’s rich heritage and distinctive design identity while catering to the specific preferences of our customers.”
Under its “Customization 2.0” strategy, Mini plans to introduce 11 unique models categorized into three distinct themes: three heritage-inspired editions, four design-focused editions, and four bespoke models exclusively available through dealerships.
The Paul Smith Edition spearheads the heritage lineup, celebrating Mini’s long-standing partnership with renowned British designer Paul Smith, which dates back to 1998. In that year, 1,800 limited-edition Paul Smith Minis were released before the end of Classic Mini production.
The new All-Electric model maintains Mini’s iconic compact form while incorporating signature design cues from Smith. It is available in three exterior colors: Inspired White, Statement Grey, and Midnight Black, complemented by Nottingham Green accents on the roof, grille, mirror caps, and wheel caps. Smith’s signature stripe pattern is prominently featured on the roof and B-pillar.
This electric vehicle boasts a 54.2-kilowatt-hour battery, providing a driving range of up to 300 kilometers on a single charge. Fast charging from 10 percent to 80 percent can be achieved in approximately 30 minutes.
The starting price for the All-Electric Mini Cooper Paul Smith Edition is 59.7 million won (approximately $42,000 USD), with potential regional electric vehicle subsidies reducing the price by up to 9.15 million won.
Since its entry into the Korean market in 2005, BMW Mini has sold 134,103 vehicles. The brand remains the only one to consistently surpass 10,000 annual sales in the premium compact import segment. The company is also accelerating its transition to electric vehicles, with battery-electric models accounting for approximately one-quarter of its Korean sales by 2025.
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