There have been a few iterations of the BMW-built Mini since the new car’s original design back in 2001. The latest significant change got made in 2014, and since then Mini sales have gone through the roof!
BMW’s philosophy on cars is to ensure they are well-built, efficient and maintain a good residual value. While there are cheaper cars on the market in its class, the Mini is still a firm favourite with those seeking small vehicles.
The third-generation Mini hatch offers vast improvements over its outgoing brothers. However, the question remains: is it worth buying one? If you want the quick answer, it’s “yes.” But, if you want a more detailed explanation, let me tell you why:
Source: Flickr
Improved efficiency and performance
As I’ve already mentioned, part of BMW’s design ethos is to create efficient vehicles. But, how can you make a car like the Mini more efficient than it already is? Well, one place to start is under the bonnet.
The latest generation of Mini hatch cars boast TwinPower technology, as used on various BMWs built today. Let’s face it; you’re not going to see those tired old 1.0-litre carb engines found in the “classic” Minis, are you?
Today’s Mini hatchbacks feature a plethora of efficient petrol and diesel engines. In fact, there’s an engine to suit everyone’s needs. Do you want something uber-frugal? If so, there’s the 1.5-litre diesel in the Mini One D that boasts an impressive 83 mpg and low CO2 emissions of just 89g/km!
And what about if you’re after a fire-breathing monster (or something powerful) under the bonnet? You need to check out the Mini John Cooper Works. As standard, it comes with a 231 bhp 2.0-litre TwinPower petrol engine!
Source: Flickr
It’s larger than its predecessors
We all know that the Mini hatch is never going to give you the cavernous space an SUV might offer. But that doesn’t mean BMW can’t tweak with the dimensions and make newer generations just that little bit bigger!
The third-generation Mini hatch is 98mm longer than the outgoing model, 44mm wider and even 7mm taller too! That might not sound like much on paper, but it does make a big difference in real-world terms.
People sitting up front have more legroom, and it’s even a bit more comfortable for rear seat passengers too. Although if you’re 6-foot something, you probably ought to avoid sitting in the back!
According to feedback from the guys at CooperMini, one of the reasons cited for buying the latest Mini hatch, is because it’s size. Despite the increase in cabin space, the exterior of the car is still recognisable as the Mini we all know and love.
There’s more technology than you can shake a stick at
Last, but not least, a huge selling point for the new Mini hatch is the tech featured within it. In fact, drivers of the latest BMWs will feel at home in the third-generation Mini because it shares much of the same gadgetry!
If you get the chance, I recommend taking a trip to your nearest Mini dealer and checking out the latest Mini hatch in the flesh.
