MINI Hatchback (2001 - 2006) 1.4 D One 3d (03) (2003/03) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Bit of a show-off and a bit individual (they were less common in 2003).

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

Liked it, but thought it was a bit small.

Would you buy this car again and why?

No, the reliability was mediocre and the price is beyond us now. I would particularly warn anyone on a budget against buying a used one without a long and comprehensive warranty.

What are you likely to buy next?

Some sensible small hatch with a good reliability reputation and price, eg. Kia Rio.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Franchised

Did you buy this car new?

Yes

What price did you pay?

£0

When did you buy the car?

August 2003

Did you get a good deal and why?

Got trip computer thrown in for nothing but no other discount.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

My wife was absolutely desparate to own one, I said it had to diesel for the economy.

What was the dealer like?

Ocean Mini Falmoutha: abosolutely superb service throughout ownership.

What's it like to drive?

Brilliant! Involving, fun, taught handling, tons of grip, 6-speed box worked well and brakes spot on, climbed hills better than the petrol One and Cooper. Great in town, on country lanes, on the motorway. Ride firm but not harsh.

What's it like to park?

Easy, though rear vision not very good.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Quite a few, eg. central locking at one year, rear suspension arms at two years, steering rack at three and half years (replaced for free despite being out of warranty. Warm starting problems from four years, 60K miles and getting worse. Traded in at 5 years 85K miles with that fault still, then heard on the grapevine that the head gasket had gone.

What's most practical about your car?

Fuel economy, traction control, electronic staibility control. Least practical = boot and access to rear seats.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Trip computer: the MPG figure put a smile on our faces! Aircon also good and the Liquid Yellow paint was cool.