MINIs are already distinctive on UK roads. While they might not be as diminutive as they once were, the shape and styling of all the model’s variants will always turn the heads of passers by.
However, some new MINIs will soon become even more difficult to look away from, when they are revealed in limited edition paintwork.
Despite not living up the brand’s typical quirkiness, the colour is eye-catching for very different reasons.
The ‘Frozen Black’ metallic paint with a textured, shimmering matte finish, makes the car look fierce, with tinted black windows giving it a more mysterious presence. MINI has described the colour as both “striking and expressive” – which isn’t too far off the mark.
This will only be available in the Countryman and Paceman models, meaning those who fall in love with the exterior will have to fork-out for the top of the range models.
It is expected to be a very sought-after feature of the new MINIs, not only because the finish is becoming increasingly popular instead of traditional shiny bodyworks, but because it will only be available on a limited number of cars, due to the extensive production and labour process that is required to achieve the menacing look.
Created during a complex manufacturing process, which is exclusive to the BMW group, the finish is achieved through innovative technology and high levels of manual craftsmanship.
“The special surface treatment encompasses the base layer for grip and corrosion protection, the colour layer as well as the clear lacquer finish, which has added silicates to create the matted impression as well as the velvet effect which can be seen and felt,” MINI revealed in a statement.
We all understand that, don’t we? Great! Let’s move on.
For those who decide to splurge on the dark-hearted MINI, there is a duty to protect the impressive look.
While the paint comes in the same high-quality as other colours in the range, including abrasion resistance and colour fidelity, owners will have to be careful when putting it under a hand wash, as waxing or polishing give the car an unwanted gloss effect.
However, the car is resistant to weather and car washes, which should put drivers at ease – slightly at least!
For those who are worried about damaging the paintwork, the BMW Group offers care products, which are designed solely for the Frozen Black finish.
Matte finish cars provide a stealthier look than its shimmering cousins, but that doesn’t mean it will go unnoticed. In fact, as the car strays away from the norm, it’s likely to draw even more attention to itself.
There are no distinct reasons why the matte effect has become so popular in recent years, although Sebastian Vettel has previously stated that he is a fan.
However, the matte black Dodge Charger SRT8 featured in the fifth and sixth installments of the Fast and Furious film franchise might have played some part. Similarly, the most recent version of the Batmobile, as driven by Christian Bale in the Christopher Nolan trilogy, also came in a similar finish.
If Batman drove around Gotham in a MINI, this is how it would look.
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