2026 MINI Cooper 1998 GT Edition
By Lorenzo Bianchi September 16, 2026
The limited edition is based on the MINI Cooper C 2 Door and takes its 1998 GT name from the car's 1,998cc turbocharged engine.
Midnight Black Metallic is paired with orange 1998 GT graphics, 17 inch JCW Sprint Spoke Black wheels and a JCW aero kit.
U.S. pricing totals $36,875 before $1,350 destination and handling, with production beginning in October 2026.
The 2026 MINI Cooper 1998 GT Edition reaches back to the Mini 1275 GT and MINI 1499 GT for inspiration, but applies those references to the current Cooper C 2 Door. It is a limited-run U.S. model and the sixth of eight MINI Icon Drops scheduled through the end of 2026.
There is one naming detail worth noting. MINI's specification table on page three identifies the underlying vehicle as the 2027 MINI Cooper C 2 Door, while the press release is dated September 2026.
Orange Graphics Break Up the Black Body
Midnight Black Metallic covers the body, roof and mirror caps, creating a dark base for orange lower-body graphics carrying “1998 GT” lettering. GT badging and further orange accents continue the theme.
The familiar short MINI proportions are retained, but the exterior gains a John Cooper Works aero kit in Gloss Black. MINI also fits 17-inch JCW Sprint Spoke Black wheels with all-season tires.
JCW Details Carry Into the Cabin
Inside, the 1998 GT uses John Cooper Works Sport Seats trimmed in Black Vescin with Black Knit. A heated three-spoke JCW steering wheel receives exclusive GT badging.
The smaller details are specific too. MINI adds 1998 GT floor mats and door entry sills, a dedicated key fob cover and a special center-console storage box lid. The specification sheet also lists a unique steering-wheel insert and wheel center caps.
1,998cc Turbo Gives the Edition Its Name
MINI confirms that the car uses a 1,998cc turbocharged engine, which provides the numerical reference for the 1998 GT badge.
That makes this primarily a design-led GT rather than a separately documented performance derivative.
Limited U.S. Run Starts at $36,875
The underlying Cooper C 2 Door has a $29,500 base MSRP. Once its specified paint, Signature Plus Trim with Comfort Package, JCW Style, aero kit and $1,225 1998 GT Edition content are included, the total reaches $36,875 before the $1,350 destination charge.
Production begins in October, with a limited number reaching U.S. MINI dealers from November 2026.