Lexus, Electric MINI Cooper Arrive in Mexico

Seven Lexus models from Japanese manufacturer Toyota and the British electric MINI Cooper announced their long-awaited arrival to Mexico, while most of the Mexican automotive industry focuses on the signing to legalize illegally imported cars.

The MINI Cooper SE is the first fully electric vehicle sold by the British automotive brand MINI, owned by the German car manufacturer BMW. Only 100 total units of this modern, yet classically designed MINI Cooper model will be available in Moonwalk Grey, Enigmatic Black and White Silver. All three models come with yellow rearview mirrors, Union Jack design LED head and taillights, a panoramic roof and 17-inch Bitono rims.

Its digital dashboard’s 8.8-inch screen connects to Apple CarPlay and MINI Navigation. Drivers can also check the MINI app to see charging history and battery’s state of charge. The car’s 184 hp potency allows an acceleration in 7.3 seconds from 0 to 100 km/hr, 50 km/hr below its 150 km/hr limit.

The 2022 MINI Coopers come with a tag price of MX$875,000 (US$43,306). Although numbers are currently limited, more electric MINI Coopers are expected to become available in the future.

Meanwhile, Lexus’ long-awaited Mexican arrival has finally been given a date. On December 10, five dealerships will open up across the country: three in Mexico City (Lexus Polanco, Lexus Santa Fe and Lexus Universidad), one in Monterrey (Lexus Vasconcelos) and one in Guadalajara (Lexus López Mateos).

While only the sedan models Lexus LS and Lexus ES will become available in December, the new generation SUVs Lexus LX and NX before the crossover UX, the Sedan IS and the new SUV RX will become available during the second half of 2022. Vehicles purchased will include a 4-year guarantee, a 6-year corrosion guarantee and three free maintenance services.

Contrary to the limited launch of its electronic MINI Cooper, Lexus has a sales goal of between 2,500-3,000 units in its first year as it aims to make Lexus the preferred luxury car brand for Mexico. To do so, Lexus will have to compete with 11 brands in the Mexican premium sector, of which 80 percent are controlled by BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Audi.

Director of Lexus Mexico Héctor Hirata is not intimidated, saying he hopes to see 60 percent of sales made up of hybrid models similarly to the sales Lexus sees in the EU. Although the Association of Automotive Distributors predicts a 30 percent contraction in new car sales as a result of AMLO’s “chocolate” car decree, these foreign companies have big plans for Mexico.