We’ve seen so far spy photos of the 2014 Mini hatchback, but what we have here is probably the first clear shot of the interior. The pic was taken by a Reddit user. The most striking detail about the new dashboard is that Mini’s trademark oversized speedometer placed on the center console is has been replaced by a radio (at least on the car caught by the photographer, which appears to be a base version).
Mini will use a smaller round speedometer instead, grouped with the tachometer into a motorcycle-style unit, which will be placed in a more conventional position, behind the steering wheel.
Another interesting addition is the round frame that circles the central stack, whose glossy appearance may suggest the presence of some ambient lighting. We can also notice the absence of a key, as all new Minis will have keyless ignition.
Coming back to the issue of the center speedometer, Mini has decided to change its position after consumer surveys criticized its awkward placement. But there’s another reason for this too: the new Mini will have almost identical electronics with the upcoming front-wheel drive BMW 1 Series, so keeping the center speedometer would have involved additional costs.
As for the steering wheel of the test car, it is not the real deal, as it was borrowed from a BMW. However, the new Mini’s steering wheel is expected to keep the same three-spoke design of the current car.
By Dan Mihalascu
Story References: Reddit via Motoring File
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