Category: Hot Hatchbacks 
Price Range: No data available
Unassailable image, fantastic interior, strong residuals, excellent to live with, TLC package.
Pricey, limited room in the back, cheap seat tilt mechanism, dull engine note, not frantically fast.
The Mini has grown up a little and, although it lacks some of the sparkle of the original, it's still a cracking car - if not really a full-on hot hatch.
The Mini's still really just for two - the rear seats offer little space for anyone to sit comfortably, especially if those in the front have longish legs, but at least they'll be sitting pretty. The front seats have been reshaped to offer better back and leg support over long distances while still holding you relatively snug when the roads get twisty.
The centrally mounted speedo is now even bigger and remains in place even if you specify the optional sat nav system - the speedo runs around the side of the screen. The audio controls and display are now integrated into the speedo, which keeps everything easy to see and reach. The revcounter sits on top of the steering column, keeping it directly in the driver's line of sight.
The retro toggle switches for the windows and other controls have increased in size, and are accompanied by an additional set in the roof lining that takes care of the interior lights and sunroof, where fitted. You can change the interior ambient lighting from blue to pink depending on your mood.
Standard equipment includes 16" alloys, electric mirrors, white or black-painted roof plus single CD player with MP3 socket. There's also a smattering of chrome inside and out, large rear spoiler, twin exhausts, leather steering wheel and gearknob, sports seats and unique cloth trim to distinguish the Cooper S from lesser Minis.
The boot isn't exactly cavernous at just 160 litres - increasing to 680 when the seats are folded - but is enough for a couple's shopping.
Latest Readers' Drives About the MINI Cooper S
wrote on 16 12 2007
wrote on 23 01 2007