Header: BMW Group
Two of the most recognizable names in British creativity are working together again. Following a series of interesting concepts over the last few years, the new MINI Paul Smith Edition has arrived to join the current MINI Cooper family. This partnership moves beyond simple branding to focus on shared values of craft and innovation. Premiering at the Japan Mobility Show in Tokyo, this edition applies Paul Smith’s famous “classic with a twist” approach to the MINI Cooper 3-door, 5-door, and Convertible models. It is a colorful, clever package that highlights the independent spirit of both companies.
Exterior colors and Nottingham green accents
The design team focused heavily on color to tell a story. Buyers can choose from three distinct paint finishes. The first is Statement Grey, a bluish-tinted shade that offers a modern update to the classic Mini Austin Seven color from 1959. For a brighter look, Inspired White pays homage to the popular beige seen on classic Minis of the past. The third option is a sleek Midnight Black Metallic from the current MINI lineup.
No matter which body color you choose, the car features specific accents in Nottingham Green. This color is a direct nod to Sir Paul Smith’s hometown. You will find this deep green on the side mirrors, the octagonal radiator grille, and even the wheel hub covers, which also bear Paul Smith lettering. The wheels themselves are 18-inch Night Flash Spoke aluminum rims finished in black with a dark steel tinted clear coat. To finish the exterior branding, the MINI logos on the front and rear are done in a newly designed Black Blue, while a black handle strip on the tailgate features the designer’s signature.
Roof designs and signature stripes
The roof of the MINI Paul Smith Edition receives special attention as a canvas for design. One version of the roof is painted in that same Nottingham Green and features the “Signature Stripe.” This colorful band is a central feature of the designer’s work and sits at the rear on the driver’s side. There is an alternative roof option that uses Jet Black stripes in varying thicknesses, mixing matte and glossy finishes for a subtle effect. For those who prefer the open air, the MINI Cooper Convertible version comes with a classic black soft top.
Inside the cabin
Opening the door reveals an interior that mixes British restraint with pops of color. The dashboard and door panels feature black knitted surfaces. The structure of the dashboard itself draws inspiration from Paul Smith’s tone-on-tone stripe fabrics. The seats are sport models finished in Nightshade Blue Vescin, featuring a knitted textile in the shoulder and headrest areas.
The steering wheel shows off more of the designer’s influence with decorative stitching on the textile band in bright colors derived from the Signature Stripe. Even the technology gets a makeover, as the round center display offers three different Paul Smith background themes when the driver selects Personal Mode.
Hidden details and playful touches
A key part of this collaboration is the sense of fun hidden throughout the vehicle. When you open the door, a projection on the floor greets you with a handwritten “Hello.” The door sill features the motto “Every day is a new beginning,” reminding the driver of the positive mindset behind the project. Another charming discovery is found on the floor mat, which features a stylized rabbit graphic hand-drawn by Paul Smith.
A history of creative cooperation
This release is the latest chapter in a story that began back in 1998. That year, Paul Smith designed a limited edition of the classic Mini in a special blue with anthracite alloy wheels. In 1999, he celebrated the car’s 40th birthday with a famous one-off painted with 86 stripes in 26 colors. More recently, the duo released the minimalist MINI STRIP in 2021 and the electrified MINI Recharged in 2022. To celebrate this newest launch, Paul Smith is also releasing a collection of bags inspired by the car’s design details.
The MINI Paul Smith Edition succeeds by focusing on the small things. It does not shout for attention but instead uses color, texture, and wit to create a car that feels special. By mixing heritage colors like Nottingham Green with modern materials and playful hidden graphics, the collaboration honors the past while looking forward. It is a car that offers drivers a unique personality and a daily reminder that good design can be fun.
