MINI buyer’s guide
How Mk3 Brit baby can be yours used from just £ 7,000
WHEN the original Mini arrived in 1959, nobody could have foreseen what a phenomenon it would become. More than 40 years later, BMW introduced an all-new MINI for the 21st century and pulled off a major coup, with the car proving to be a massive success.
Since the first cars were launched in 2001, BMW has used every trick to exploit the Mini heritage, with special editions, sporty models and, for the first time ever with the Mk3, a five-door hatchback.
Some reckon the third-generation BMW MINI doesn’t look as desirable as previous versions, but there’s no denying that it represents a big advance over its predecessors in pretty much every way.
History
THE third-generation MINI hit dealers in March 2014. Codenamed F56, the range comprised One (102bhp 1.2), Cooper (136bhp 1.5) and Cooper S (192bhp 2.0litre) petrol models. Diesel buyers could
pick from One D (95bhp 1.5) and Cooper D (116bhp 1.5-litre) versions. All engines were turbocharged three-cylinder units, apart from the four-cylinder Cooper S.
In September 2014 the range gained five-door (F55) and Cooper SD options, the latter featuring a 170bhp 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine. The 228bhp John Cooper Works (JCW) appeared in spring 2015 and was the most powerful MINI yet. In July 2017 the instrumentation was improved on all models.
Just last month a facelift brought standard LED headlights across the range. Also fitted as standard was improved infotainment with Apple Carplay and wireless phone charging.
Which one?
ALL engines were hooked up to a sixspeed manual gearbox as standard, with a six-speed auto optional; from December 2017 a seven-speed dualclutch box was also offered. From last month, this became the standard
automatic option. The manuals work well, the autos are fine but not quite as slick, while the dual-clutch is great.
Air-con had to be specified at the time of ordering as a no-cost option on the One/one D and Cooper/cooper D models, so check it’s fitted. The One is spartan, so we’d go for at least a Cooper.
Pin down what options or option packs are included on any potential purchase; the list is extensive. The Pepper and Chili packs bring different features depending on the trim level.
Alternatives
PERHAPS the MINI’S closest rival is the Audi A1, another premium small hatch that comes in three or five-door forms. It’s beautifully built and packs some excellent engines. But the German model’s design both inside and out is very sober compared with the MINI.
The Fiat 500 still looks desirable even though it’s 10 years old, but it’s best viewed as a 2+2 thanks to its cramped
rear seats. Also getting on is the DS 3, but it’s still desirable with its sharp looks, tough engines and relatively keen prices. The Ford Fiesta is a less exclusive choice, but it’s better value, more fun to drive, roomier and cheaper to run.
Verdict
IN 2016 the MINI was crowned Best Premium Small Car at our New Car Awards for the third time in a row. It was our overall Car of the Year in 2014.
When it won we said: “The MINI hatch is the perfect Car of the Year – it’s a small car that’s big on talent. We love the way it drives, the quality, the efficiency and the big car tech on board. It’s also built brilliantly in Britain – a car the UK can be proud of.”
Then and now, the MINI is up against some stiff competition, but we reckon that none of its rivals can match the ever-popular model’s cheeky looks, efficient engines, engaging dynamics and low running costs.