Special edition MINIs tend to be outrageously expensive and this year’s JCW Hardtop International Orange Edition carried a base price of nearly $40,000 before options and destination charges were factored in. Thankfully, MINI has gone in another direction with the 2019 Oxford Edition which costs about half as much as the aforementioned model.
Designed to appeal to college students and recent graduates, the Oxford Edition starts at $19,750 for the three-door hatchback and $20,750 for the five-door model. Of course, that’s excluding an $850 destination and handling fee.
While the prices are relatively low, the model comes with $6,900 worth of optional equipment as standard. The company didn’t release detailed specifications, but confirmed the car has a panoramic moonroof and 17-inch alloy wheels with either a silver or black finish.
Most of the upgrades occur in the interior as drivers will find heated front seats, an anthracite headliner and a MINI Connected infotainment system with a 6.5-inch display. The model also features MINI Teleservices, a rear-view camera and park distance control.
Power is provided by a 1.5-liter TwinPower Turbo three-cylinder engine that produces 134 hp (100 kW / 135 PS) and 162 lb-ft (219 Nm) of torque. It is paired to a standard six-speed automatic transmission, but a six-speed manual is also available. With the latter gearbox, the three-door hatchback can accelerate from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in 7.4 seconds and return up to 32 mpg highway.
Now for the bad news. The model is only available to students who are currently enrolled in an accredited two- or four-year college or university. MINI will also make the car available to students enrolled in post-bachelor degree programs as well as graduates who completed their degree within the past year.
The MINI Oxford Edition is currently available at dealerships and MINI USA’s Randy Clements said it “represents a tremendous value for college students and recent graduates who are looking for a fun, stylish car that won’t break the bank.”
