Jump in and you will be heartened by the distinguishing, yet attractive features that are now standard when sitting in a MINI. The rev counter is in front of the driver while the speedometer is off to the left with the sat-nav in the middle of the speedo. It may be a quirky to some but it makes the MINI range individualistic and a break from the norm.

The driving position is excellent with a low-slung seat and there is plenty of adjustment if needed.

The Coupe is 5mm longer than the hatch but the wheelbase is the same and that makes the car feel surprisingly roomy. Comfort-wise, the two-seater Coupe is merely adequate though. There are decent amounts of leg- and head-room for a driver and passenger of average height but those over six foot may struggle a little. Up front the seats give ample support for long trips.

Road tyre and wind noise is relatively well suppressed for a car of this size thanks to a well-insulated cabin, although the engine is quite vocal when at high revs.