Cover image via Motoring File.
Lebanese designer Elie Saab just took haute couture for a spin…literally. For the 2025 amfAR Gala in Salzburg, Saab teamed up with MINI Austria to create a one-off Cooper S that blends fashion, luxury, and a meaningful cause.
With a metallic gradient finish, the MINI by ELIE SAAB boasts a sculptural, ever-changing look under the lights. The wheels have a satin finish, and they’re etched with the iconic Saab logo as a nod to the designer.
The interiors are fully upholstered in quilted brown leather which also feature the Saab logo. According to Motoring File, their team worked to incorporate his fragrance Golden into the design, so the car releases notes of bitter orange and cedar wood to complete the experience.
For the car experts: the Cooper S sticks to its F66 roots, powered by BMW’s 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder with 204 hp. Saab focused on style and experience, leaving the MINI team to handle performance.
Elie Saab partnered with MINI to design and build this car exclusively for auction! Proceeds will go to amfAR’s HIV/AIDS research, making it the car a statement piece that blends Lebanese craftsmanship, German engineering, and a meaningful cause.
Saab described the project as more than luxury. It’s a celebration of purpose, art, and human-centered design. MINI has a history of pairing fashion collaborations with philanthropy, but this MINI stands out for its multi-sensory approach.
From the gradient exterior to the scented interior, the MINI by Elie Saab proves that cars can be canvases. It’s a rolling piece of art designed to make a statement, support a cause, and leave a lasting impression.
What do you think about the MINI by ELIE SAAB? Make sure to check out the #Lebanese Designers section for more content like this.
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Beirut.com printed logo on the left side. Available in Black, White, and Olive Green.
High quality t-shirt that is available in either round neck loose fit made of 100% cotton with short sleeves, or fitted cropped with a round neck and short sleeves (95% cotton,5% elastane).