MINI Hatchback (2006 - 2013) 1.6 D Cooper (08/10 on) 3d Owner Review

I've always loved Minis, the original classics in particular and couldn't wait to try the new MINI back in 2001 when it went on sale. I was impressed with the build quality and driving dynamics but it was out of my price range at that time. I bought a MINI Cooper in 2017 with the 1.6 litre diesel engine with a high specification but a used model about five years old. I managed to buy a car with just the right spec for me with low mileage too. It drives pretty well but I have a few niggles that have bothered me. The gear change can be vague and it can't be rushed up and down the cogs. I believe my car is fitted with the Pepper pack with firmer dampers and it's also running on 16 inch alloys with run-flat tyres which seem to exacerbate the firm feel on the road under 40mph. It does still drive very well with a grippy chassis for a bit of fun now and again. Economy is decent too plus it doesn't cost anything to tax.