The BMW-Mini Thread

Mini Cooper Facelift (2018) International Launch Review

Pricing

Mini regards itself as a premium brand so the pricing is on the higher side, especially if you consider rivals such as the upcoming Volkswagen Polo GTI and Ford Fiesta ST are also exciting forthcoming attractions. Mini sells itself on individuality and its cars are bought with the seemingly infinite trim/wheel/roof/bonnet/dash options you can choose from, something you don’t get from the others mentioned above.

The facelifted Mini Hatch, Convertible and 5-door will be available locally from June 2018. They will be covered by 5-year/100 000 km maintenance plans.

One Hatch R302 200

One Hatch auto R323 200

Cooper Hatch R370 300

Cooper Hatch auto R391 300

Cooper S Hatch R430 577

Cooper S Hatch auto R450 186

John Cooper Works Hatch R491 095

John Cooper Works Hatch auto R512 865


One Hatch (5–door) R312 300

One Hatch (5–door) auto R333 300

Cooper Hatch (5–door) R380 400

Cooper Hatch (5–door) auto R401 400

Cooper S Hatch (5–door) R441 057

Cooper S Hatch (5–door) auto R459 780


Cooper Convertible R423 200

Cooper Convertible auto R444 200

Cooper S Convertible R496 836

Cooper S Convertible auto R515 559

https://www.cars.co.za/motoring_news/mini-cooper-facelift-2018-international-launch-review/44936/
 
Mini Convertible 25th Anniversary limited-run model launched

Celebratory model arrives a quarter of a century after Rover Mini Cabriolet

Mini has launched a 25th Anniversary edition of its Convertible in its most luxurious form, with just just 300 being produced.

It has been 25 years since the launch of the Rover Mini Cabriolet. The celebratory 2018 model builds on the base of the Cooper S Convertible with lounge leather-covered seats, white mirror caps and 18in Mini Vanity wheels.

Each car is painted in Starlight Blue and wears contrasting white bonnet stripes. The fabric roof has a Union Jack pattern.

The kit list is based on that fitted to Chili pack models, so includes the top-spec sat-nav and a Harman Kardon sound system, while a numbered plaque has been added to signify the car’s anniversary status.

No changes to the engine have been made, so the 2.0-litre unit remains capable of 189bhp and 207lb ft of torque. It enables a 0-62mph time of 7.2sec and a top speed of 143mph.

Prices for the limited-run model start at £32,995. This is £9165 more than an entry-level Cooper S Convertible, although much of the cost increase can be attributed to the additional standard features of the 25th Anniversary variant.

https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/...e-25th-anniversary-limited-run-model-launched

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DRIVEN: Mini Convertible Cooper S Steptronic - CAR magazine

MALLORCA, Spain – The modern Mini is one of the few highly successful retro design stories in the motoring world. Although nothing like the size of the original Mini, which was a brilliantly engineered super-compact car, the modern version has enough of the classic’s cheeky aura combined with a certain degree of go-kart manoeuvrability, to satisfy the eager public for many years to come.

And so the story continues. Yes, we headed to Mallorca to take the facelifted Mini range for a test drive, on some suitably twisty mountain roads. We had three variations to sample: the three-door hatch, five-door hatch and convertible.

Concentrating here on the Cooper S version of the latter, what impressed me the most was the amount of work that has clearly gone into stiffening the body shell. There is no scuttle shake, which is something usually very noticeable by simply closely observing the rear-view mirror and monitoring vibrations.

Space, however, is scant in the rear (and suitable for small children only), but that’s to be expected with a compact design and the need for room to stow the roof. The latter first opens like a sunroof before much of the assembly is electrically folded away.

From the start, Mini has always offered a high level of personalisation. And just when you thought there was nothing left to offer, along comes a fresh catalogue of goodies. The latest comes in the form of “Mini Yours” customisation. You order your personal choices via an online shop, after which your items will be 3D-printed at facilities in Germany and delivered.

Your choice of name and colour for the side-scuttle rubber inserts is the starting point. We noticed one of the test cars with the name “Alec” on the side, seemingly as a tribute to the designer of the original Mini, Sir Alec Issigonis. But then we spotted some other names, such as Elizabeth, Margaret, Harry and Andrew. So, if you fancy nostalgia, royalty or a even touch a vanity (with your own name on the side), the choice is entirely yours.

A light projection onto the ground when you open the door can be similarly specified, as can names or statements on the passenger-side facia. One more nod to the model’s British origins is a partial Union Jack outline in the rear lamps (and a full one on the fabric material of the convertible roof). Additionally, a very long list of options and packages can be specified, so many that making your choices could take quite some time. Naturally, this will push up the pricing, in some cases considerably.

While the manual version we drove is still my transmission of choice due to the sheer slickness of gear-changes through the six ratios, the new dual-clutch with paddle-shifters is perhaps the way to go for the majority of drivers, thanks to its overall sportiness and the option it gives to leave cog-swapping up to the computers. The paddle-shifters do cost an extra R3 300, but are worth every penny.

Mini steering has always been very quick and direct. This remains, but a twitchiness has crept in so that a very delicate touch must be maintained on the wheel to keep the car pointing in a straight line. Power is more than sufficient at 141 kW for the Mini in Cooper S guise, while the ride on 17-inch wheels is firm but nothing quite as rock-hard as that of a 1960s Mini. No kidney belt required.

Twisty corners are the Mini’s main diet and there were thousands of such bends in Mallorca. We also had to make good use of the brakes as there are as many cyclists on the island as there are cars. They have the right of way, but everyone shares the road and takes their turn to enjoy the journey.

Ultimately, these small updates, along with the addition of a new dual-clutch transmission and yet more personalisation options, look set to keep the retro-inspired Mini brand on as healthy a footing as ever.

Model:Mini Convertible Cooper S Steptronic
Price:R514 800
Engine:2,0-litre, 4-cyl, turbopetrol
Power:141 kW
Torque:280 N.m
0-100 km/h:7,1 sec
Top Speed:228 km/h
Fuel Consumption:5,8 L/100 km
CO2:126 g/km
Transmission:7-spd dual-clutch
Maintenance Plan:TBA

http://www.carmag.co.za/car-reviews/driven-mini-convertible-cooper-s-steptronic/
 
Pricing! Facelifted Mini hatch and convertible zip into SA

The facelifted Mini hatch and convertible have officially arrived in South Africa, with the range priced from R302 200.

The updated versions of the three- and five-door Mini hatchback, as well as the refreshed convertible (which we’ve since driven in Spain), were first revealed in January 2018. Have a closer look and you’ll likely notice the redesigned headlamps and tail-lights (the latter complete with the Union Jack design), as well as the fresh alloy wheel designs.

There’s also the debut of the latest Mini logo, while inside you’ll find a new multifunction steering wheel and a standard 6,5-inch colour screen. Yet more customisation options also arrive, along with three new paint finishes and the optional Piano Black Exterior package, the latter seeing the surrounds of the headlamps, tail-lights and grille finished in high-gloss black instead of chrome.

The 75 kW three-cylinder petrol engine that powers the Mini One now draw its oomph from a capacity of 1,5 litres (rather than 1,2 litres), with maximum torque up 10 N.m for a total of 190 N.m.

As an alternative to the standard six-speed manual transmission, a new seven-speed dual-clutch debuts in the One, Cooper and Cooper S. As a reminder, the Cooper models use a 1,5-litre turbo-triple worth 100 kW and 220 N.m, while the Cooper S derivatives employ a 2,0-litre turbo-four worth 141 kW and 280 N.m.

And the three-door JCW hatchback you spy in the pricing list below? Well, this model is seemingly unaffected by the facelift, but for the record, its 2,0-litre churns out 170 kW and 320 N.m…

Pricing:

Mini One Hatch 3-door: R302 200
Mini One Hatch 3-door AT: R323 200
Mini Cooper Hatch 3-door: R370 300
Mini Cooper Hatch 3-door AT: R391 300
Mini Cooper S Hatch 3-door: R430 577
Mini Cooper S Hatch 3-door AT: R450 186
Mini John Cooper Works Hatch 3-door: R491 095
Mini John Cooper Works Hatch 3-door AT: R512 865

Mini One Hatch 5–door: R312 300
Mini One Hatch 5–door AT: R333 300
Mini Cooper Hatch 5–door: R380 400
Mini Cooper Hatch 5–door AT: R401 400
Mini Cooper S Hatch 5–door: R441 057
Mini Cooper S Hatch 5–door AT: R459 780

Mini Cooper Convertible: R423 200
Mini Cooper Convertible AT: R444 200
Mini Cooper S Convertible: R496 836
Mini Cooper S Convertible AT: R515 559

http://www.carmag.co.za/news/pricing-facelifted-mini-hatch-convertible-zip-sa/

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Facelifted Mini range launched in South Africa

MINI's range of compact cars in South Africa (3-door, 5-door and Convertible) have been updated to feature a raft of new technologies and style upgrades.

Buyers can expect new engine-transmission combinations, an extended array of standard features, refreshed headlights and rear lights, and upgraded connectivity technology for the infotainment.

Exterior tweaks across the range comprise LED headlights with Matrix function for high beam mode, LED rear lights featuring an embedded Union Jack design, a new MINI logo with enhanced body finishes in Piano Black, and new light-alloy wheel designs.

Inside, there's an extended range of leather trim, refined interior surfaces and new colour lines. A multi-function steering wheel and radio with 16.5cm colour screen, USB and Bluetooth interface are standard across the range.

Optionally, radio and navigation systems with a touchscreen monitor are available, as is wireless charging for smart phones.

The entry level MINI One also gains an increase in engine capacity from a 1.2-litre petrol turbo to a 1.5 turbo, raising torque by 10Nm to 190Nm, while power stays the same at 75kW.

All engines across the MINI range have been fettled with to ensure improved fuel consumption and reduced carbon emissions. However, the biggest news comes in the form of a seven-speed double clutch automatic gearbox that can be fitted to the MINI One, the MINI Cooper and the MINI Cooper S models.

MINI says that the new transmission is characterised by fast shifts, enabling extremely sporty acceleration without torque interruption to the drive wheels. It is operated using a new electronic gear selector lever. The MINI Cooper S comes with shift paddles on the steering wheel for particularly spontaneous gearshifts.

The Clubman and Countryman models are excluded from the latest upgrades.

The original Mini was one of the most popular cars ever produced, and nearly 5.4 million were sold until production ceased in the year 2000 to make way for an all-new model.

Since MINI's rebirth, under the stewardship of BMW, the diminutive brand has garnered a cult following amongst hip, trendy, and fashion-forward car buyers. Today, it's a sought after marque that offers value on the low end with its One derivatives and tar-ripping performance on the other end in the form of John Cooper Works models.

KEY SPECIFICATIONS

THREE-DOOR

MINI One

Power: 75kW and 190Nm

0-100 km/h: 10.1 seconds (10.2 seconds auto)

Top speed: 195 km/h (195 km/h auto)

Fuel consumption: 5.0 – 4.9 litres/100 km manual; 5.0 – 4.8 litres/100 km auto

MINI Cooper

Power: 100kW and 230Nm

0-100 km/h: 7.9 seconds (7.8 seconds auto)

Top speed: 210 km/h (210 km/h auto)

Fuel consumption: 5.2 – 5.0 litres/100 km manual; 5.0 – 4.8 litres/100 km auto

MINI Cooper S

Power: 141kW and 300Nm

0-100 km/h: 6.8 seconds (6.7 seconds auto)

Top speed: 235 km/h (235 km/h auto)

Fuel consumption: 6.1 – 6.0 litres/100 km manual; 5.3 – 5.2 litres/100 km auto

MINI John Cooper Works

Power: 170kW and 320Nm

0-100km/h: 6.3 seconds (6.1 seconds auto)

Top Speed: 246km/h (manual and auto)

Fuel Consumption: 6.6l/100km manual; 5.7l/100km auto)

FIVE-DOOR

MINI One: 75kW and 190Nm

0-100 km/h: 10.3 seconds (10.5 seconds for the auto)

Top speed: 192 km/h (192 km/h for the auto)

Fuel consumption: 5.1 – 4.9 litres/100 km manual; 5.0 – 4.8 litres/100 km auto

MINI Cooper

Power: 100kW and 230Nm

0-100 km/h: 8.2 seconds (8.1 seconds auto)

Top speed: 207 km/h (207 km/h auto)

Fuel consumption: 5.2 – 5.1 litres/100 km manual; 5.0 – 4.8 litres/100 km auto

MINI Cooper S

Power: 141kW and 300Nm

0-100 km/h: 6.9 seconds (6.8 seconds auto)

Top speed: 235 km/h (235 km/h auto)

Fuel consumption: 6.3 – 6.2 litres/100 km manual; 5.4 – 5.4 litres/100 km auto

CONVERTIBLE

MINI Cooper

Power: 100kW and 230Nm

0-100 km/h in 8.8 seconds (8.7 seconds auto)

Top speed: 208 km/h (206 km/h auto)

Fuel consumption: 5.4 – 5.2 litres/100 km manual; 5.4 – 5.2 litres/100 km auto

MINI Cooper S

Power: 141kW and 300Nm

0-100 km/h: 7.2 seconds (7.1 seconds auto)

Top speed: 230 km/h (230 km/h auto)

Fuel consumption: 6.4 – 6.3 litres/100 km manual; 5.6 – 5.5 litres/100 km auto

PRICES

Mini One Hatch 3-door: R302 200
Mini One Hatch 3-door auto: R323 200
Mini Cooper Hatch 3-door: R370 300
Mini Cooper Hatch 3-door auto: R391 300
Mini Cooper S Hatch 3-door: R430 577
Mini Cooper S Hatch 3-door auto: R450 186
Mini John Cooper Works Hatch 3-door: R491 095
Mini John Cooper Works Hatch 3-door auto: R512 865

Mini One Hatch 5–door: R312 300
Mini One Hatch 5–door auto: R333 300
Mini Cooper Hatch 5–door: R380 400
Mini Cooper Hatch 5–door auto: R401 400
Mini Cooper S Hatch 5–door: R441 057
Mini Cooper S Hatch 5–door auto: R459 780

Mini Cooper Convertible: R423 200
Mini Cooper Convertible auto: R444 200
Mini Cooper S Convertible: R496 836
Mini Cooper S Convertible auto: R515 559

https://www.iol.co.za/motoring/late...-mini-range-launched-in-south-africa-15809101
 
What mid-life crisis? The new Mini Cooper will forever be a fan favourite in SA

Nearly six decades ago the first Mini Cooper was penned to paper. The brief was simple; design a car from the ground up that can counter the economic crisis the world was facing, whilst at the same time making it suitable to life in the city. Sound familiar?

Not long after, the British-built Mini Cooper was created and by 1968 more than 68 000 little city cars found new homes. It’s a success story like no other and to date the car has been seen in numerous movies and television series.

Perhaps the two most notable: The Italian Job and Mr Bean. And, says Mini South Africa, over the years they’ve aimed to reproduce the Cooper (and later on the other models in the range) with the very same goals the original car was tasked with.

In doing so, they’ve managed to attract new customers whilst keeping existing customers happy.

What mid-life crisis?

Mini’s success in South Africa should also not be discounted: in 2017 they’ve managed to sell 2080 units, and in 2018 - up until the end of June - the count stood on 1049 units. Not bad for a car made to counter any crisis experienced in life.

The range

Mini South Africa launched the latest generation Cooper in both three- and five-dour guises but each model in the range can be fitted with different engine and gearbox options/combinations.

In total, the range comprises of 18 models, of which four are convertible.

The three- and five-door models have a basic model to kick off their respective choice-list, called the Mini One. It is driven by 1.5-litre three-cylinder engine that develops 75kW and 190Nm.

As the frugal engine in the range, Mini says the car will return as little as 4.8 litre/100km. The Cooper is powered by the same engine but power has been increased to 100kW/220Nm.

The Cooper S, driven by a 2.0-litre engine, churns out a very lively 141kW and 300Nm. Mini claims a 0-100km/h sprint time of 6.7 seconds and a top speed of 233km/h.

All engines are turbocharged and power is sent to the front wheels.

The convertibles, in Cooper and Cooper S guises, are powered by the same engines bar the 75kW unit. A six-speed manual gearbox forms part of the range, as well as a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic.

An eight-speed automatic step-tronic gearbox with paddle shifts is fitted to the John Cooper Works (JCW) models.

The highlights

What’s made the Mini Cooper a favourite amongst buyers over the years is that it has always managed to stand out from the crowd and with the latest car it is no different.

As part of the package, the range features full LED headlights and selected models’ taillights feature the Union Jack flag.

Union Jack signage are also spread across the interior hinting at Mini’s British heritage.

Furthermore, there are numerous options for conneting smartphones, BMW’s SOS service and the Internet.

Interestingly, for those listening to AM radio, the new Mini only has FM frequency.

It’s also enabled with a projection logo underneath the side mirrors that display the new Mini logo - launched in 2015.

A multi-function steering wheel and 6.5" colour screen are standard.

Perhaps the biggest highlight aboutis that Mini offers a host of customisable options. Owners can now order removable panels for their Cooper and even have their name engraved into it.

Owners can even have the logo projection or whatever they choose to be displayed. These customisable options are bought in Euro’s and will then be shipped to the buyer. It should be interesting to see how users customise their cars according to their tastes…

The drive

Driving from Cape Town International airport, the starting point for the launch, the convoy made their way through holiday traffic out of town.

The Cooper felt solid as it coped with the open road but road noise filtered through into the cabin. The tyres really announced their handshake with the tar.

Performance-wise the Cooper is obviously not as lively as the Cooper S but does well to shoot off the line and reach respectable speeds.

Those who can stretch their budgets far enough can aim for the JCW versions, though the S has enough performance in its pocket to put a big smile on your face. It transfers its power to the road in an effortless manner, virtually without issue.

Steering is typical Mini - like a go-kart - and it corners wonderfully. The steering wheel does feel a tad too big but that is soon forgotten as the car’s limits are explored.

Mini has managed to instil a new sense of fun in the just-launched Cooper range, without doing away with what made the car a hit for the last sixty years.

It’s still agile in the city, engaging over a mountain pass, and with lekker driving dynamics.

The package speaks to those young at heart and who place niceties such as tech features at the forefront of their priority list but those wanting a fun driving experience will not be disappointed.

The new Mini Cooper range is priced from R302 200 for the manual three-door Mini One hatch to R514 800 for the Cooper S convertible automatic.

https://www.wheels24.co.za/NewModel...ill-forever-be-a-fan-favourite-in-sa-20180704

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DRIVEN: Mini Cooper Hatch 3-door AT

Mini South Africa recently updated its hatchback and convertible ranges, making various tweaks to the line-ups. And the new technology now on offer plus a fresh batch of tasty options make this product even more attractive than before. We took the Cooper derivative for a drive in and around Cape Town during the local launch.

What’s new?

From afar, it may seem as though this facelift has ushered in very little change, but step slightly closer you’ll no doubt notice numerous updates. These include new LED headlamps with so-called Matrix technology for the high beams and rather neat LED rear lights designed to incorporate the Union Jack.

Standard equipment now includes a multifunction steering wheel and a 6,5-inch colour screen with USB and Bluetooth interfaces. Furthermore, there are various fresh individualisation options on offer in the form of the “Mini Yours Customised” programme, as well as new Mini Connected and Mini Connected XL digital services. Ultimately, though, these new features are as much a visual and customisation step forward as they are a connectivity step forward.

Highlights of the customisation programme include the side scuttles, decorative strips for the cockpit facia, LED door-sill finishers and LED door projectors, all of which can feature designs specified from scratch by the customer. An online shop allows buyers to design the visual element of these parts, which are then manufactured using 3D printing and laser engraving. Handily, the next owner will be able to remove these customised parts and replace them with items to their own taste.

Other updates, some of which are not visible, includes lighter alloy wheels and improved claimed fuel consumption.

Behind the wheel

During the launch, I opted for the more run-of-the-mill Cooper, eschewing the chance to spend the bulk of my time with the Cooper S. Under the bonnet beats a 1,5-litre, three-cylinder turbopetrol, which still develops 100 kW and 220 N.m. Although this is no match for the Cooper S’s 141 kW and 280 N.m, the Cooper still offers plenty of punch. The result is that it feels planted and nippy, with quick steering, and delivers a driving experience one would expect from a modern Mini.

Although you have the option to rev the engine all the way to 6 000 r/min, it’s around the mid range where the most fun can be had. Equipped with a new seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, gearshifts are quick, while the system, compared to the six-speed manual, also allows the driver to relax should he or she wish to.

From the driver’s seat, there is no doubting the unique cabin atmosphere that these Minis offer. The variety of switches plus the combination of colours and instruments make it an exciting environment in which to perform your driving duties.

Summary

The Mini range continues to offer a driving experience unique to the brand. As high-end manufacturers offer clients customisation to an extent last seen in the early to mid-20th century, it is interesting to watch the makers of more relatively affordable products such as Mini embrace buyers’ desires to stand out from the crowd.

Model:Mini Cooper Hatch 3-door AT
Price:R391 300
Engine:1,5-litre, three-cylinder turbopetrol
Power:100 kW between 4 500 - 6 000 r/min
Torque:220 N.m at 1 250 r/min
0-100 km/h:7,8 seconds
Top Speed:210 km/h
Fuel Consumption:4,9 L/100 km
CO2:115 g/km
Transmission:7-speed, double-clutch
Maintenance Plan:5-years/100 000 km
Notes:*All claimed figures

http://www.carmag.co.za/car-reviews/driven-mini-cooper-hatch-3-door-at/

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New Mini 1499 GT special-edition model confirmed for SA

Mini South Africa has confirmed that just 30 examples of the 1499 GT special edition will be offered locally from October 2018.

The news follows the unveiling of the 1499 GT in the United Kingdom in October 2017. As with that model, the local 1499 GT is finished in Midnight Black paint with gold “1499 GT” side stripes and pays homage to the classic 1275 GT of 1969.

The three-door 1499 GT is powered by the BMW-backed brand’s turbocharged 1,5-litre three-cylinder petrol engine, which churns out 100 kW and 220 N.m, and facilitates a 0-100 km/h dash in a claimed 7,8 seconds. A seven-speed dual-clutch transmission comes standard.

This special edition also boasts the John Cooper Works styling pack (complete with its distinctive front and rear bumpers, side skirts, rear spoiler and door entry plates) as well as black 17-inch alloy wheels, gold Union Jack side-mirror caps, gold Union Jack side scuttles and a panoramic sunroof.

Inside, you’ll find JCW leather sports seats, a JCW steering wheel trimmed in perforated leather (with “Chilli Red” stitching) and a neat 3D-printed panel on the facia reflecting the car’s build number (for example, 1/30). The Visual Boost radio system and Piano Black interior trim, along with Carbon Black interior detailing and an Anthracite headlining, are also included, as is a sports suspension.

The price? Some R447 000, which represents a R55 700 premium over a base-spec self-shifting Cooper three-door hatchback.

http://www.carmag.co.za/news/new-mini-1499-gt-special-edition-confirmed-for-south-africa/


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Mini Cooper S 5dr - epic to drive, but worth the money?

The Mini Cooper S is arguably one of the best hot hatchbacks on sale in South Africa when it comes to providing sheer driver-seat thrills. But, it does come with quirks.


Take for instance this quirk; the latest five-door model we had on test last week said Cooper S on the boot lid, but its alloy wheels said John Cooper Works on the centre caps.

Odd, right, because there’s an actual 170+kW John Cooper Works model for sale in the Mini line up.

This additional badging strikes me as the Mini marketing folk trying to cash-in, in an M-badge-on-a-320i kind of way. Nevertheless, it looks hot and odd at the same time with chiselled bumpers, deep air dams and racing stripes that add a nice flavour to the car’s look.

Inside the car, the seats are so plush you’d think the Mini design team raided the BMW 7 Series parts bin to get their hands on the seat- and door-cover materials.

Our car was even fitted with a heads-up display if you find that the centre-mount instrument cluster on the dashboard to be positioned too far left of the driver’s seat.

New Minis are ‘connected’ too, with apps like Spotify for music, a concierge service to help you with car-service queries, satellite radio capability if you like to stream overseas music channels and the ability to use your smartphone to connect the car to the internet to browse the web.

As a techno-fest, luxury-infused, premium car it certainly ticks all the boxes that a modern Mini customer (or any car buyer for that matter) would want to be ticked.

I was, however, shocked when I glanced at the spec sheet provided with our test car, which showed that it cost a shade under R600 000 (with options). And, I can tell you that the price also startled a few people in Drive360 the office (including some of my friends who drive older generation Mini hatchbacks).

But let’s not get stuck on the price of the new Mini Cooper S five-door with John Cooper Works styling pack; let’s unpack what you get for your money, first.

All new Minis come with LED headlights with Matrix function for the high beam as well as LED rear lights in a ‘Union Jack’ design. You’ll also spot a refreshed Mini logo, new body finishes and piano black treatment on particular elements around the outside of the car (like the boot lid on our test car). Our car also projected a sharp and crisp Mini logo on the floor when the car was unlocked. It’s a great way to illuminate puddles and remember what make of vehicle you drive.

There’s a refreshed range of alloy wheels available, but the 18-inch units fitted to the test car are the ones to go for when appointing your new car. It looks sporty, but because it still runs a reasonable 205-section tyre, there’s not much road noise when compared to hot hatches running 225 or 235-section rubber on the rims.

A seven-speed Steptronic transmission with a double clutch system was fitted to our test car and although I did miss a clutch pedal and manual shift selector the DCT box is simply sublime to work with. In fact, I’d consider this auto box as one of those must-have options when building your new Mini, as it gives the car genuine day-to-day capabilities considering traffic congestion. (No more burnt-clutch smell is a blessing too).

Unlike the Renault Clio R.S.18 we had on test a few weeks ago, the Mini Cooper S (in Sport mode) always finds itself in the right gear for the moment, and when you pull on a paddle behind the steering wheel or tip the gear lever between the front seats it shifts up or down without hesitation. It gives the driver the confidence to overtake safely and provides a genuine connection with the car when driving spiritedly because it does what you ask it to do.

Powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, the Mini Cooper S boasts one of the largest engine displacements in its class. It’s fantastic to have this ‘large’ engine with a hefty torque characteristic up front pulling you through the gears. It feels like there’s a never-ending wave of torque available, and you don’t have to rev the life out of it to go quickly.

Power is rated at 141kW and torque at 300Nm, but it feels like it has more grunt than that thanks to the way accelerates. It also helps that you sit low, with a low dashboard in front of you and with a nice heavy-weighted steering wheel in your hands. It’ll hit 100km/h from a standstill in a claimed 6.8 seconds, so it is indeed a properly fast little car too.

Mini hatchbacks are known to be rather harsh in terms of ride comfort, but this test car actually drove surprisingly comfortably on its low-profile tyres and sports suspension. Tyres are run-flat too, so you do get a decent size boot that’s large enough for a weekend getaway with a partner. And, it can work as a runaround car, thanks to the five-door layout and the ISOFIX compatibility it offers. But, again, it’s rather pricey to use as a runaround and you’ll need to consider roof racks if you cycle or carry outdoor gear on the weekends.

Priced at R459 780 in starter-pack format, if you can call it that at this price level, the Cooper S comes lavishly equipped in standard trim, but once you start adding things like the John Cooper Works pack, and a heads-up display, panoramic sunroof, etc. you can quickly get to the R598-odd thousand asking price of the model we drove.

You’ll be pleased to note, though, that if you do part with cash for a Mini Cooper S of your own, you’ll also receive a five-year/100 000km Motorplan maintenance contract that works in a similar manner to BMW’s Motorplan (covering service and particular wear-and-tear items on the car).

VERDICT

I love the ‘new’ Mini, quirks and all. In terms of premium feel in a hatch, the bar has been raised when it comes to technology and you can really feel the research and development (that honed in feeling) when driving this latest iteration.

But, it is expensive, considering that an equally fast VW Polo GTI will cost less than R400 000, maybe a shade more if you take a few (rare) options. If, however, you have a decent budget for a new car, go test drive a Cooper S before you sign any OTPs this weekend.

https://www.iol.co.za/motoring/road...dr-epic-to-drive-but-worth-the-money-17173381

D45072A6-4E4B-4BCF-A9BD-38D7AE93479B.jpegC5227687-CAEC-4603-9677-1B4417DA9240.jpeg3D7BF533-7B5D-4938-9D9C-E87E9E8A295F.jpeg902750CC-1915-479D-8190-1C5F78969722.jpeg
 
FiestaST said:
The three-door 1499 GT is powered by the BMW-backed brand’s turbocharged 1,5-litre three-cylinder petrol engine, which churns out 100 kW and 220 N.m, and facilitates a 0-100 km/h dash in a claimed 7,8 seconds.
Click to expand...

That's slower than my almost 20 year old 1.8l NA roadster... and hellishly more expensive too.
 
When are we going to get an electric version? Friend in France has an electric Renault and its a joy to drive. So silent you need to keep looking out the window to see you are moving. She gets about 230km before the yellow "charger bientôt" light comes on
 
chrisc said:
When are we going to get an electric version? Friend in France has an electric Renault and its a joy to drive. So silent you need to keep looking out the window to see you are moving. She gets about 230km before the yellow "charger bientôt" light comes on
Click to expand...
All-electric Mini is coming out next year. If it will hit SA next year is hard to say just yet.

A concept model was previewed late last year:

https://www.netcarshow.com/mini/2017-electric_concept/

Mini Electric Concept 1.jpgMini Electric Concept 2.jpgMini Electric Concept 3.jpgMini Electric Concept 4.jpg
 
Marvellous. In Shanghai recently. 95% of the cars there are electric. Whereas 5 years ago the sun was a blob in the sky, the place is as clean as Cape Town. No more sore throat by lunchtime
 
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