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The modern day MINI, it's been in production at the Oxford plant since 2001 with a new
generation coming out in 2006. Now in its 3rd generation you would be forgiven if you
assumed there had been no changes, but never assume! Don't go anywhere, stay with me so
I can show you what is new about this new new MINI
These headlights and big front grille stick out more prominently, the body panels have
more styling lines, this plastic trim does a good job of protecting this trendy car from
car park dings and these big tail lights are a modern take on the original 1959 model.
a previous criticism of the MINI has always been a lack of user friendly controls, but
now there is a proper Connected Drive controller for the infotainment system [demo go through
some of the features] which is much easier to navigate - it's optional, but really intuitive
and well worth the extra cash.
MINI hasn't done away with the retro toggle switches though and has modernised it further
with a really cool colour changing LED ring around the centre console - which changes
depending on what function you select.
Further changes include the plectrum-style starter button, which has moved from beside
the steering wheel to the centre console, while the central speedo is replaced by a
conventional speedo and rev counter mounted ahead of the steering wheel.
The new MINI has a
great choice of engines ranging from an entry level 1.2 petrol in the MINI One that returns
61.4 miles to the gallon and emits just 108g/km of CO2. The MINI Cooper gets a new 1.5 3 cylinder
petrol with more power yet achieves slightly better fuel economy at 62.7 miles to the gallon
and 105 g/km of CO2. Even the top-of-the-range MINI Cooper S returns almost 50 and doesn't
break the bank with horrendous road tax costs like the first MINI Cooper S did in 2001.
The real economy stars though are the diesels, which return over 80 miles to the gallon and
are free to tax! The manual gearbox is the cleanest and links nicely into each gear,
although the clever automatic has a coasting function to improve fuel economy
this car is bigger and safer than ever before, with improved crash protection and some really
clever tech including options such as rear view camera, heads up display and a pop up
bonnet incase you are unfortunate enough to hit a pedestrian plus plenty of airbags to
keep you safe in the event of an accident.
there is also an all new suspension set up that makes this MINI just as fun to drive
as the original. The sport mode even likens the handling to that of a go-kart -- LOOK
- There's very little roll in the corners and this MINI is without doubt one of the
most fun hatchbacks currently on the market.
the seats are more supportive and the driving position lends itself to this enhanced driving
experience. However, I must say it will be a little too firm for some, making long journeys
a bit of a drag, and that brings me onto a few complaints about the new MINI. That brilliant
handling might be a bit too grown up for playful drivers who liked the movement of the previous
generation...and by the time you've added all that fantastic tech it makes the price
tag a bit steep. A Citroen DS3 does offer better value.
Stop and walk to back seats and get in partly adlibbing and then cut to back seats
and despite the extra dimensions and more room for passengers...
the back seats are still a bit of a squish, especially if Mat is driving and you want
to sit in the back, so probably best that I drive and Mat sits in the back
I know technically that's the same thing but it might be a good trick into the driver's
seat.
Anyway, boot space, yes it's better! BUT it's still small - both the Audi A1 and Citroen
DS3 are bigger.
But size isn't everything, good things come in small packages. Yes I know what you're
thinking, this MINI isn't actually that small...but hey it's still the coolest kid in town and
that doesn't necessarily mean it ticks all the other boxes. You buy a MINI because you
want a stylish small car, not because you need a big boot. Overall on closer inspection
it is massively improved over the previous generation and there's no denying that they
hold their value well in the used market.
If you are still unsure then watch the Audi A1 video here and the Citroen DS3 video here
and don't forget to subscribe to the Carbuyer channel by clicking here