Overview

If you’re after a stylish small car with a premium air about it, the MINI has to be one of the first hatchbacks that springs to mind. Whether you’ve opted for one of the popular MINI Cooper models or a less potent runaround, you’ll have something that’s fun to drive and stuffed full of personality.

In terms of size and price, it’s a rival for the likes of the Audi A1 and Volkswagen Polo, but it’s also ideal if you’re considering anything small and fun like a Fiat 500 or a Mazda MX-5. The range consists of three- or five-door hatchbacks, but you can also opt for a Convertible or the larger Clubman or Countryman models – covered in their own separate reviews. There’s even a fully battery-powered MINI Electric.

Inside, MINI has served up an interior that’s interesting to look at and packed with plenty of design cues that hark back to the original car from the 1960s. There’s also a huge amount of modern technology on offer, much of which you’d only expect to see in much bigger, more expensive cars.

The distinctive central instrument binnacle no longer contains the speedometer but instead the infotainment system’s details, with the speedo located behind the steering wheel next to the rev counter. A variety of screen sizes are available, depending on the spec of the car, and each runs a more fun-looking version of BMW’s slick iDrive infotainment system.

Whether you’re opting for one of the more pedestrian three-cylinder Cooper models or the firebreathing John Cooper Works hot hatchback, every Mini puts fun at the top of the agenda. This does mean that they’re not quite as comfortable on long journeys as rivals such as the SEAT Ibiza, but on the other hand, they stick like glue to the road and make country lanes an absolute joy.

MINI makes big noises about ‘go-kart’ handling – even going so far as to use it in marketing materials and in the infotainment. That’s a little misleading, as compared with earlier, smaller MINIs the current model is more mature and much less go-karty. But it’s still brilliant fun, and the good handling of the basic models becomes even more impressive as you move up into more powerful cars.

Read on to see what we make of the MINI’s practicality, interior, running costs and driving dynamics – or click here for our verdict.