Let’s address the most controversial topic from the beginning. This is not a small car. In fact it is 20cm longer than the outgoing model of which hardcore fans claimed was already too big. The simple fact of the matter is that Mini is no longer about one car. It is an ethos, a design language, a philosophy. If Mini still built one tiny little car from the 60’s it would be out of business by the middle of next week. In my eyes the Countryman allows those who need more practicality to continue enjoying the things they love about Mini.

Now a fully fledged C-Segment SUV, the 2017 Mini Clubman in Cooper S trim certainly looks more grown up than its “cute” predecessor. A more rugged visage has been applied using plastic cladding, a raised ride hight,  and a more squared off design. Familiar Mini traits such as those rounded headlights and even the step in the roof from the old model are retained. Our test car looked sharp in its contrasting black and white scheme, and the addition of bonnet stripes and sporty bumpers further builds its character. Unmistakably a Mini, the new Country takes this model to a new more premium level. Those roof rails also come standard across the range.

The interior continues this highly polished theme with a wealth of soft touch materials lining the dashboard and doors. New vertical vents gives the Countryman its own identity along with a bespoke interior lighting arrangement. A wide touchscreen infotainment display houses the Mini equivalent of iDrive of which is the most ergonomic in almost any car. A slicker interface makes it pleasing to the eye and the touch input is supplemented by a scroll wheel. The heated leather seats in our Cooper S provided ample support thanks to their bolstering. This cars increased length  is notable for rear passengers as legroom for the outmost occupants is plentiful. Headroom is much the same. The middle passenger does have to contend with a transmission tunnel, but the rear bench redeems itself by being able to slide and adjust. Open the tailgate to reveal a wide opening and 450 litres of boot space. Fold those seat flat, something that can be done individually for all three, and that expands to 1,390 litres. A nice little feature is Mini’s “picnic bench” which is a little cushion type arrangement that folds out and onto the rear bumper. This is perfect to perch on and take shelter under the boot door whilst taking off muddy boots.

Under the bonnet of our 2017 Mini Countryman Cooper S is a turbocharged four cylinder engine producing 192hp and 280 Nm of torque. That performance potential is channeled to Mini’s ALL4 all wheel drive system via an 8 speed automatic transmission. 0-62 MPH comes and goes in a respectable 7.4 seconds. The inevitable bouts of rain in the UK that confronted us allowed the extra security of all wheel drive to shine through. High levels of grip enables you to exploit the Countryman’s performance even in treacherous conditions. The aforementioned gearbox is quick to respond when commanded by wheel-mounted paddles, but also competent and smooth when left to its own devices. There is a strong pull as the turbo comes into play and the exhaust emits the occasional crack and pop. Whilst the steering is not brimming with feel, the car doe retain the agility you would expect from a Mini. Body control is good for a tall car, however, the trade for this is a ride that is firmer than the competition. Around town control weights are well judged meaning that this big Mini is never a task to manoeuvre. Visibility is also pretty good, but the reversing camera may come in handy for those upsizing from a smaller Mini. When it comes to the motorway the Cooper S has enough grunt to banish dawdlers to the rear view mirror. A Cooper D is also available, and due to its plentiful torque, that is the model we would recommend for regular trips up the M4.

The 2017 Mini Countryman is a real step-up from the car it replaces. Costing from £22,465 the Mini is still a premium choice, but it is unique and certainly makes a statement in the carpark. It might not be the most engaging car in the range to drive, but that Mini DNA has an undeniable charm. For those who have always desired a Mini but could never justify it due to needing more space, the Countryman is your answer.

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We first drove the new Mini Convertible on its launch in Portugal earlier in the year, but this is the JCW, the daddy, and actually the fastest drop-top Mini has ever made. It certainly keeps up appearances with large intakes and grills adding to a sporting character. It still has plenty of charm with those large round headlights and typical Mini proportions, but one look at that huge dual exhaust pipe poking out of the back and you know that this is no Barbie car. Intricately stitched into the fabric roof of our test car is the Union Flag, a rather unique touch. Finished in Rubber Green this example was suitably subtle. That is until you start the engine…

The interior is a very upmarket affair as it carries over all of the new design traits found in its hot hatch counterpart. A glossy finish to the dash board along with trendy ambient lighting sets a premium tone. Bolstered leather seats hug you as a masculine JCW steering wheel is presented to you. A widescreen infotainment system derived from BMW iDrive provides well designed ergonomic interaction. This incarnation of the Mini Convertible does offer more space for rear occupants, but as an adult those seats are more for occasional use. Whilst in the back you can admire the finely crafted headrest backing of the front seats that mirrors the roof design. Its 215 litre boot provides exactly the same storage space as the hatchback but adds a handy folding tailgate.

Flick that aircraft inspired starter switch and the 228 BHP 2.0 litre turbocharged engine burbles into life. The car instantly feels alive and its pulse, even at rest, hints that this is no ordinary Mini. Place the car in its most timid “green mode” and Mini claimed 47.9 MPG combined. The ride is indeed firm thanks to the sporty suspension and large alloy wheels, however, adjustable dampers can be optioned. Around town the compact size of the Mini Convertible John Cooper Works can be exploited and the standard rear reversing camera further makes life easier. Select “mid-mode” and you instantly feel the car become more responsive. Everything is a tad sharper and clearly displays that much loved Mini tribute of agility. This 6 speed automatic gearbox is quick off of the mark and deals with everything from daily dawdling to rapid manual inputs from the paddles. However, this model really comes into its own when you select “sport mode”, drop the top, and place it on some challenging forest roads. 0-62 MPH tales just 6.5 seconds and it will go onto a top speed of 150 MPH. As 320Nm of torque from that turbo surges the car onwards the now open valve in the exhaust makes some deliciously dirty noises. As it burbles, pops, and bangs, its way through the gears it simply wills you to push it hard. Minus the roof you can enjoy that rude orchestra all the more. Plentiful levels of grip and some impressively communicative brakes means you have the confidence to do so. Precise and well-weighted steering promotes a dynamic change of direction and solid connection between man and machine. The 2017 Mini Convertible John Cooper Works is not only a little pocket rocket, but a genuine drivers car. It is a real hoot to drive as both you and the car nail apex after apex. The laws of physics dictate that the tin top is slightly sharper to drive, but the engineers at Mini have done an astonishing job to maintain good structural rigidity in this convertible.

Of course a model such as this remains a niche, but as a performance Mini it is incredibly well accomplished, roof or not. £26,635 is not a small amount of money for a small car, but in the 2017 Mini Convertible John Cooper Works you are buying something rather unique. If you wish to have more than a simple “wind in your hair” sensation, more like tornado in your barnet, then there is no better soft-top hot hatchback out there.

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Based upon the Cooper S hatchback, this little pocket rocket incorporates much of the John Cooper Works in terms of visuals. Larger grills, that boot spoiler, and some contrasting 17 inch alloy wheels, give it a real sporting attitude. Being a Mini is has plenty of character including those big round headlights and signature proportions. Our test car finished in red with matching roof looked smart, not too in your face, but enough draw to recognise that this isn’t a standard Cooper S.

This generation of Mini has pushed upmarket in terms of interior. High quality materials and ambient lighting crates and atmosphere that feels mature and premium. This Mini Cooper S Works 210 also receives a chunky JCW steering wheel. Our test car has the chilli pack and so that means a pair of body hugging seats are included. The console is dominated by a round facia that houses the widescreen infotainment display. Being iDrive based, it utilises a scroll wheel and touchpad for inputs. The system itself is easy to navigate and is certainly one of the best amongst competitors. Head and leg room in the back is fine for children, but more of an occasional use when it comes to adults. Boot space is 211 litres.

But really this Mini is all about driving because, for our rather batter British roads, it has the best of both worlds. Lacking the firm suspension of the JCW the ride is more forgiving, but a 2.0 litre 210 HP turbocharged engine means that it will do 0-62 MPH in about 6.5 seconds. The manual gearbox in this Mini Cooper S Works 210 has a positive shift and certainly adds engagement when driving at a pace. Its chassis is very well engineered, demonstrating good body control. Plentiful bite from those front tyres allows you to push on. Responsive steering brings that key Mini trait of agility to the party.  A strong 280Nm of torque is delivered making its surge of acceleration all the more intoxicating. However, my favourite feature of the 210 is its rather rude exhaust pipe. The law of the land prohibits cars from being too loud, the regular John Cooper Works sits about on this limit, and you can’t have a physical button that modifies this above X number. Mini have cleverly got around this with a Bluetooth button that wirelessly turns things up to 11. Whilst not technically suitable for the road in this state, it is an absolute hoot listing to this little car shout so loudly at the world around it. Pops, bangs, and crackles , are all emitted from the dual exit. You can’t help but smile.

Our brief time with the Mini Cooper S Works 210 left us wanting some more playtime in what has instantly become one of the best cars in the range. You can have one for yourself from a reasonable £21,690.

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Visually the 2016 Mini Clubman All4 looks identical to its front wheel drive sibling, not necessarily a bad thing. Now, whilst proportionally this may look like a long car, it is a trick of the eye as this model is actually shorter than a Volkswagen Golf. Those big round headlights are pure Mini, but this is defiantly the most grown-up car from the brand. It looks premium with chrome detailing and its floating roofline. In SD form the bonnet scoop, sportier bumpers, and dual exhaust pipes, add a subtle sporting note. I rather liked this new blue featured on our test car too.

That word “premium” can be again used when it comes to the interior as the Clubman, much like the latest Mini hatch, has increased its perceived quality and design. Glossy plastics and metallic inserts look expensive and the interesting design of the centre console makes for a unique interior that could only be that of a Mini. Supportive leather seats are comfortable as well as heated. Amongst the aircraft inspired switchgear you will find dual zone climate control and the ergonomic controls to the cars infotainment system. The rear bench seats three with the two outermost posts happily accommodating adults, however, the middle passenger does have to straddle the transmission tunnel. Colourful ambient lighting, akin to that found in a trendy wine bar, that changes dependant on the cars mood is a nice touch. Open the Clubman’s signature double boot doors and you have access to a 360 litre boot with a nice flat floor. The only downside is that rear visibility is impaired by the divide those doors cause and so a reversing camera is a must.

Powering this Mini Clubman All4 SD is a 2.0 litre turbocharged diesel engine producing 187 BHP and a highly usable 400 Nm of torque. An 8 speed automatic transmission is the only gearbox option for the SD, but it is very good at its job. Upon request it will swap cogs quickly and smoothly to the point where passengers will likely not notice it happening. When left to its own devises it is rather unflappable too. Power can be sent to all four wheels  via an electronic differential. During normal driving the car is primarily front wheel drive, but when the onboard computer sense a loss in traction all four wheels are powered. All wheel drive is also engaged during more spirited driving enabling better displacement of the Clubman’s power. This is notable in a faster 0-62 MPH time of 7.2 seconds. Top speed, incase you were curious, is 138 MPH. Select “Sport Mode” and enjoy weightier steering, faster gear changes, and a sharper throttle response. Whilst the Mini Clubman All4 does have a firmer ride than its competition, the reward is brilliant control over lateral body motion. In typical Mini fashion it is quick to change direction and feels alert. Factor in the added stability and grip from having all wheel drive and a strong argument for this being the best Clubman  variant arises. Head onto the motorway and again the Mini pleases. Other than a bit of road noise refinement levels are good. Setting the radar guided cruise control, the car is very happy to munch motorway miles like they are going out of fashion. It has no issue with disposing of dawdlers either as you can responsibly summon it torque and be on your merry way. Mini claims that this All4 will do 58.9 MPG on the combined cycle and emit 126g/km CO2.

This Mini Clubman All4 SD is a very well rounded package offering all of the fun-loving Mini traits and a good dose of practicality. Specifically this car is now more versatile and equipped to deal with harsher weather conditions more confidently than many C-Segment alternatives. You can have the Clubman All4 from £24,285 in Cooper S guise or £27,390 as an SD. Trinkets such as satellite navigation come standard. The All4 is on sale now.

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In life there are some things that just go together, classic parings that should never be apart. Salt and pepper, knife and fork, fine whine and cheese. Another inseparable combination is a bright sunny day and a convertible. The UK is actually one of the leading markets for buying such cars which is odd considering the vast amount of rain it receives. But when the sun is out the roof is down! The best selling drop-top in the United Kingdom for the past 10 years has been the Mini Convertible and so this all-new model has to hit the ground running. Unfortunately the weather back home is its usual unpredictable self and so we are in Portugal driving the 2016 Mini Cooper S Convertible Open 150.

Clearly this car was always going to carry the matured looks of the latest generation Mini. Traditional traits such as those lovable round headlights and proportions, that can only be associated with a Mini, are present and correct. We managed to bag the keys to this very smart limited edition Open 150 which possesses a unique interior and exterior colour combination as well as every toy under the sun. As the name suggests, just 150 of these cars will be produced. Stylish 18 inch alloy wheels fill the arches whilst Cooper S characteristics, such as bonnet scoop and more aggressive body elements, complete the look. Something totally unique to the new Mini Convertible is its hood which features and embroided design. Like having pinstripes on your posh umbrella, it adds eye catching detail and sophistication.

The grown-up theme continues inside where the perceived quality has been boosted considerably over the previous generation car. Textured finishes on the dashboard and ambient lighting combine to create a modern interior that feels worthy of a premium product. Bolstered seats crafted from fine brown leather are intricately stitched together and offer plenty good support. The front pair in this car are also heated. A widescreen infotainment display sits in the middle of a coloured halo that changes depended what setting the car is in. The system is easy to use and is operated via an intuitive touch sensitive scroller with shortcut buttons. Moving rearward, this Mini boasts that there is now more space than ever with the larger proportions of the hatch being taken advantage of. Increased leg room now means that the children have a bit more wiggle room. For adults the rear seats are only really for occasional use. The boot is also larger at 215 litres, it actually equals that of the hatchback, and has an ingenious function called easy load. In a nutshell, pulling two leavers widens the aperture allowing for easy loading of bulkier items. The folding tailgate can hold up to 80kg of weight making it an ideal bench or picnic seat for those light enough. With the roof up or down the Mini Convertible does have restricted rear visibility, but every car comes standard with a reversing camera negating the issue. Said roof can be quietly raised or stowed in 18 seconds at speeds of up to 18 MPH. With the wind deflector in place this Mini isn’t too blustery. Partially retracting the fabric will give you 40cm of sunshine.

The 2016 Mini Cooper S Convertible is powered by the same 2.0 litre turbocharged engine as its hatchback counterpart. That means 190 BHP and 280Nm of torque is at your disposal. 0-62 MPH takes just 7.1 seconds and a top speed of 142 MPH makes this a bit of a rag-topped rebel. Utilise the Cooper S selectable drive modes and you will find different characters. Green mode aims to preserve fuel and get you closer to that claimed 50.4 MPG combined. Normal mode gives you lighter steering which is great when navigating a busy town or city, but the throttle is more responsive than when in Green Mode. Click it over into Sport and it is here the 2016 Mini Cooper S comes to life. The cabin lighting turns red, the steering gains a pleasing level of weight, gear changes from the 7 speed automatic gearbox become faster, the adaptive suspension becomes stiffer, and a valve opens in the exhaust to allow for a childishly exciting sound. As you pick up the pace it pops and bangs with the enthusiasm of a child that has eaten too many sweets. Without the roof the symphony of gunfire is more audible than in the hatch. Attack some twisting road and the usual Mini agility shines through. Loads of grip, strong brakes, and masterful body control promotes a confidence inspiring drive. Usually the loss of something as structurally integral as a roof has detrimental effect on the chassis, but that isn’t the case here. Whilst the hatchback might be just a touch sharper, the extra bracing has done its job making the new Mini Convertible just as enjoyable to thrash around in. Precise steering and even a hint of lift-off oversteer is a real treat for those who love feeling the car work beneath them.

The 2016 Mini Convertible Cooper S is a worthy machine to be crowned one of the best convertibles on sale. It remains all of the cheeky Mini mannerisms we love whilst pushing upmarket. You can have a Cooper S variant from £22,430 but we would suggest the adjustable dampers to make life a bit more comfortable back home in the UK. If you want an Open 150 you and your £29,990 needs to move quickly in the direction of a dealership.

Its compact shape and peppy performance made the new Mini Convertible the ideal companion on these challenging Portuguese roads. Another perfect paring.

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Sporting the new proportions of the latest generation hatchback, this pocket rocket is everything you would expect of a modern Mini. From its big round glowing headlights that form that familiar cheeky face to its dimensions that sees a wheel tucked into each corner, the persona this car emits hasn’t changed in decades. Yes, it’s got a bit bigger and die-hard original Mini fans will think it some form of heathen as a result, but the truth is that it is still one of the most characterful cars you will find in any car park. Being the John Cooper Works it sheds its cuter traits in exchange for a shot of testosterone. Prominent grills have grown and now dominate the front facia, Bold 18 inch JCW alloy wheels fill the arches, a boot spoiler has emerged, and a central set of dual exhaust pipes aim like cannons towards the rapidly vanishing horizon behind.

The interior is a particular highlight as Mini portray this car as a fashion conscious premium product. From the moment you enter the cabin it is obvious that a team has agonised over every detail. High quality textured materials form the dashboard, ambient lighting changes colour dependent on the cars current function, and those chromed aircraft inspired toggle switches remain. Our test car was fitted with the “Chilli Pack” which included a set of highly bolstered leather and alcantara seats. These man-eaters give a really sporting feel as well as being function in their supporting of occupants. A chunky red stitched steering wheel proudly wears the Mini logo whilst aluminium pedals, count three of them, shine in the footwell. A widescreen display plays host to an easy to use infotainment system that is controlled via an ergonomic touch pad, scroll wheel, and shortcut buttons. The second row of a Mini hatch has always been a bit of a challenge, the JCW is no different offering a space that is fine for children, but a bit of a squeeze for adults. The boot is big enough for a short trip to the shops.

The 2015 Mini John Cooper Works Manual has three distinctive personalities dependent upon what mode the car is in. Twisting a collar, located at the base of the gear stick, to the left bathes the interior in green lighting. Predictably this is call “green mode” and its aim is to help you achieve the claimed 42MPG combined figure. Via the instruments it will recommend when to change gear and give you an indication of how much fuel saving you are doing. I hate to say it, but this becomes an addictive little game around town. In said urban environment the Mini darts through traffic with well judged steering, although its low speed ride can be a bit firm. We would recommend spending extra on the excellent adjustable dampers which help a lot. Clicking the car into normal mode results in a slight increase in throttle response from the turbocharged 1.6 litre engine, however, the car feels like it is willing you on to turn that dial once more. Doing so turns the cabin red and unleashes this little Mini’s full potential. Foot to the floor fires the JCW down the road using all 228BHP. 0-62MPH takes just 6.3 seconds and it will go onto a top speed of 153MPH. Acceleration is relentless as the exhaust emits a deep base note and the turbo whistles. Come off of the throttle and loud pops and bangs are allowed to resinate via an open valve in the exhausts. It is totally churlish but fantastic fun. The best part? With a six speed manual transmission you are the conductor of this grin provoking orchestra. Challenging country roads are a joy as good grip and masterful body control reinforce the ethos that the Mini is a bit of a weapon on such terrain. The meatier weighting of the steering in race mode adds more precision and the huge Brembo brakes on the car provide truly impressive stopping power. You can feel the weight shifting around your hips and the whole experience is engaging, amplified by the manual transmission.

Starting at £23,050 the 2015 Mini John Cooper Works Manual is not cheap, but it does feel like a quality product. As well as being well engineered and great fun to drive, within that price tag you are buying into the Mini brand and everything it represents. I hold no grudges against anyone who buys the automatic, it is very good, but you save £1,330 with the manual model in addition to the added involvement it provides.

It is not surprising that this little blighter is one of our Inside Lane “Car of the Year” finalists.

The post Review: 2015 Mini John Cooper Works Manual appeared first on Inside Lane.

The rain in Spain falls mainly on the… Mini. Yes, we ventured to not so sunny mainland Europe to be amongst the first to test the all-new Mini Clubman. The previous car was a bit of an oddball and was undoubtably quirky. A lone rear hinged door on one side was rather peculiar but Mini have now taken the car, and indeed the brand, in a new direction. So what exactly does this C-segment model offer and can the biggest Mini ever retain what pleases true fans? We grabbed the keys to a 2015 Mini Clubman Cooper S in order to find out.

It looks like an estate car doesn’t it? That is in fact a trick of the eye as this Clubman is actually 2mm shorter than a Volkswagen Golf. A high belt line and a stout glasshouse produces an elongated effect, one that makes this Mini appear longer than it is. Whilst it is the biggest Mini the company has ever produced, the Clubman is squarely inline with other C-segment rivals. Visually the car has done a lot of growing up and it is now a much more premium affair. Chrome trim details design elements whilst those glowing round headlights again create that signature cheeky face. The Cooper S with its stripes and bonnet scoop hints at it being of sportier endowment than some of the other Clubman siblings. Sitting beneath those twin rear doors is a set of dual exhaust pipes that do like to crackle when the mood takes them.  This incarnation of the practical Mini is certainly less controversial coming across as fashion conscious and civilised.

If you think the exterior represents a transformation for the Clubman, wait until you see the metamorphosis that has taken place inside. The interior is a design statement just as much as the external aesthetics. High quality materials for an intricate and interesting environment in which to sit. It is not just the glossy elements and the interesting shapes, but some of the more textured elements on the dashboard that make the cabin unique. A widescreen infotainment system is surrounded by an illuminated halo that changes colour dependent upon what it, or indeed the car, is doing. The system itself is easy to use and is controlled via a touchpad and  series of shortcut buttons. Whilst road testing this car in Spain I did find the Satellite Navigation to be a bit hesitant, however, this could be because these are early iterations and being abroad likely didn’t help. The front seats are wonderfully upholstered and have a crafted feel to them. Functionally they are supportive in all of the right places. A three spoke steering wheel with a chunky rim feels great in the hands. Moving rearward you will find plenty of leg room for the outer two passengers. There is enough space for a tall occupant to be sat directly behind another giant and still have plenty of space. A protruding transmission tunnel does cut down on leg room for the middle passenger. Our test car was equipped with one of the largest panoramic glass sunroofs which allowed plenty of natural light into the Mini. At night the interior is bathed in mood lighting reminiscent of that found in a trendy night club. Open those rear doors manually, or by waving your leg under the bumper, to reveal a usable 360 litres of boot space. A nice flat floor means that loading and unloading the boot is easy. Also there is a compartment beneath said floor. Alas, those interesting doors do prevent visibility rearward with small glass panels and a dividing line that runs down the windscreens centre. Overall the interior of this 2015 Mini Clubman Cooper S is a nice place to spend time.

Now, just because this is the most practical Mini going don’t think that designers and engineers forgot about what a Mini stands for. This 2015 Mini Clubman Cooper S still promises to be good fun when the road gets interesting. Powered by a 2.0 litre turbocharged four cylinder petrol engine, this variant produces 192HP meaning it will get from 0-62MPH in just 7.1 seconds. Top speed clocks in at 142MPH. At low speed the Mini is perfectly pleasant being nice and easy to drive, despite visibility impairments, with well judged steering weighting and a responsive throttle. About town the the car is very at home and relaxing to drive, but some road noise does begin to enter the cabin a higher speeds. The ride is firmer than competitors, yet, it is a far cry from uncomfortable. The trade of a firmer suspension setup is rewarded by excellent body control. Switch to “Green Mode” with the interior lighting changing to match the mood and Mini claim the Clubman Cooper S will return 48.7MPG. But twist the dial to ‘Sport” and as everything goes red the fun begins. The Clubman has good levels of grip meaning that when you arrive at a corner in a hurry it hugs the road. Strong brakes with nice pedal feel enhances the feeling of being in control along with weightier steering. Acceleration is brisk and the soundtrack is pretty enjoyable too. Listen to the car pop and bang on down changes and you can’t help but smile. This particular 2015 Mini Clubman Cooper S was optioned with an automatic gearbox that was quick to respond when changes were requested via the paddles, but also well versed in selecting appropriate ratios by itself. You can really throw this Mini about and it simply laps complex roads only to ask for more. The standard Cooper S hatchback might be a little bit sharper, but this big Mini retains the keen handling the brand is famed for.

Starting at £22,755 the 2015 Mini Clubman Cooper S isn’t cheap, but for 192HP in this segment it does offer value over German rivals. Mini’s rejuvenation of the Clubman is a success in my eyes and further pushes the brand upmarket. With all of the charm you would expect from a car out of Oxford, the Cooper S is an interesting alternative to the usual suspects.

The post Review: 2015 Mini Clubman Cooper S appeared first on Inside Lane.

What is the 2015 Mini John Cooper Works? Far more than a Cooper S with some stickers and a slick set of alloy wheels. New pistons have been fitted to the 2.0 litre petrol engine as well as a different exhaust system. Uprated Brembo brakes, suspension and damper revisions all factor into this comprehensive new offering. Externally the cute Mini has become a bit rabid with a menacing number of intakes and grills for increased cooling. A prominent spoiler joins an aggressive rear bumper that houses dual exhaust pipes. Finished in “White Silver” and red, our test car also includes the Chilli Pack which adds 18 inch two tone alloy wheels.

The Chilli Pack continues to influence the car inside with large alcantara and leather seats in the front. These black and red posts have some serious bolstering and provide ample levels of support. Just like all new generation Minis, the interior has taken a real step up in terms of design and quality. An intuitive infotainment system takes centre stage with the now traditional aircraft inspired switches sat below. A chunky steering wheel sits close to the driver and is highly adjustable. There is space in the back for children, or a couple of slightly squashed adults, and the boot is of a decent size making the Mini JCW an easy sell to the wife or girlfriend. The cabin overall feels well appointed and befitting of a premium product.

Toggle the starter switch and the Mini booms before settling into a burble of engine noise. There are three driving modes in the 2015 Mini John Cooper Works. “Green” which gives you the most efficient settings for the car, you don’t want that. “Mid” gives you soft dampers and a bit more feel to the steering, you don’t want that. “Sport” sharpens throttle response, weights up the steering, puts the gearbox on high alert, opens a valve in the exhaust and stiffens the dampers. In short, the car is in maximum attack mode and you do want that! Foot to the floor unleashes 22BHP and 320Nm of torque. Optioned with the paddle shifters like our car, this JCW will get from 0-62MPH in just 6.1 seconds with launch control and onto a top speed of 153MPH. You are sucked back into your seat as the sheer amount of shove that this car has somewhat shocks you. It hurtles down the road at a simply exhilarating rate all whilst emitting a rude amount of noise. It spits, pops and fizzes in a positively boisterous fashion. A grin larger than that of the Cheshire Cat is an inevitability. Accurate and meaty weighted steering is a joy to interact with as the car seemingly pivots around your hips. Bags of grip and little in the way of body roll makes for agile handling. Whilst the gearbox is competent enough to get on with things by itself, changing gear yourself is enjoyable thanks to highly responsive shifts. Hit the anchors and the Mini will come to a very reassuring stop. Pedal feel is good and aids the driver to modulate braking when really pushing on. In “Sport” the ride on British roads is bone shattering and should only be reserved for track use, however, the JCW will allow you to customise each setting. This means that you can have all of the go-faster buzz of sport whilst retaining the softer damping of “Mid.” In these parameters this Mini strikes a near perfect balance.

The 2015 Mini John Cooper Works is quite simply brilliant. It pushes all of the right buttons with its near faultless execution. Whilst there is a touch of torque steer and the car isn’t the cheapest in its segment, a JCW starts at £23,000 and our test car with options totalled £31,670, it is arguably the best hot hatchback in the B-segment. Actually, it could be one of the best hot hatchbacks for a decade. With 1 in 4 John Cooper Works Minis finding a home in the UK, odds are you will be seeing and hearing plenty of these pocket rockets at play.

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Ok, so you have managed to persuade your better half that owning a car with a bit of performance punch is a good thing. Well done, first hurdle overcome… To choose a hot hatchback would be another ace to pull from your sleeve as they are a riot to drive, but retain rear seats and a decent sized boot. Things are looking good right up until the fuel bill is mentioned. Whilst most of these ASBO inducing pocket monsters are capable of reasonable economy, you both know damn well that it is unlikely to be driven like the Popemobile. And it was all going so well! However, Mini might just have something for you. Whilst the Cooper S is excellent fun, this 2014 Mini Cooper SD claims to offer the same smiles, both whilst driving and at the fuel pump.

The all-new Mini still retains its “cheeky chappy” appearance with large rounded headlights and prominent front grill. Proportionally it is larger than the model that preceded it, but to those who moan “its  not very mini for a Mini” need to check their calendars and wake up to 2014. With every generation customers demand more practicality and safety. So the only answer is to increase its size, that said the modern Mini is still smaller than its competitors. Bonnet scoop and contrasting white stripes give this red 2014 Mini Cooper SD a suitably sporting character. 17 inch black alloy wheels allude to a darker side of this otherwise charming little car.

Enter the cabin of this car and its newfound grownup nature of this car is immediately apparent. The interior has matured promoting a premium design. Glossy black surfaces integrate with neat details such as illuminated chrome door handles and switches. Gone is the central speedometer, moved to a more conventional location, and in its place is a large infotainment screen controlled via an ergonomic dial and buttons. A ring of light surrounds it changing colour when the car is cycled through various driving modes. Chunky John Cooper Works steering wheel with red contrasting stitches is a sporty addition to the passenger space. The leather seats are supportive with plenty of bolstering to hold you in place when driving in a more spirited manor. An option that this car had, of which we would highly recommend, is the colour heads up display. Not only does the HUD look great, but it minimises the need for your eyes to leave the road displaying speed as well as navigational directions. In the rear there is more space than ever, but not quite enough to see off competitors, the same goes for its boot.

The 2014 Mini Cooper SD we snagged the keys to had a 2.0 litre 4 cylinder turbocharged engine under the bonnet producing 168BHP and 266lb ft of torque. That last figure in particular is key as all of that torque is available from just 1,500rpm. So how fun can a diesel car be? Well if it is the Cooper SD, then the answer is very. Whilst this car can do all of the sensible things like driving around town very well, this car has good visibility and doesn’t ride as harshly as its predecessor, it is you leave the urban sprawl behind and go on to conquer on British country roads you recognise the genius of this car. The steering is well weighted and engine response is good, but select sport more and everything becomes sharper. Turn into a corner using the meaty steering wheel and there is loads of grip, the car darts towards the apex with precision. Minimal body roll further adds to the Mini’s good manners, but the best part of the SD is revealed upon corner exit. Thanks to all of that low end torque you can fire the car out of the tightest bends leaving a cheesy grin upon your face. There is a touch more understeer in this car over the Cooper S due to the increased weight of the diesel, something to keep in mind when driving hard in the wet. Obviously the engine noise is not as fruity as the petrol Cooper S, however, its diesel growl is not unpleasant. A 0-62MPH time of 7.2 seconds, when optioned with the 6 speed automatic transmission like this car was, is pretty brisk especially when you consider it will only emit 107g/km of CO2 and return 69.9MPG. Said gearbox is quick and responsive with manual gear selection being made available using the steering wheel mounted paddles. Left in automatic and cruising along at motorway speeds, the SD is comfortable and refined with some wind noise from the A-pillars being my only real criticism.

Not only does the new 2014 Mini Cooper SD look good, but it also drives just as well delivering all the fun of the petrol car. This is arguably the best all-round Mini in the range and strong sales are sure to follow. You can have an SD in Blazing Red for £20,225 but this specific car with its optional equipment including; rain sensing wipers, heated seats, cruise control, HUD, John Cooper Works trinkets and automatic gearbox came to £26,685. The SD is still quite the Mini adventure, just without the higher fuel bill.

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When you make a success of something it is very hard to live up to the high expectations people now have. I call it “the difficult second album conundrum” and that is exactly what Mini faced with their all-new hatchback. In 2001 the Mini was reborn and once again became a cult classic. 2007 saw the second generation of the modern car and this again succeeded in wooing buyers. Can Mini really make it three in a row whilst introducing the biggest changes its best selling model has ever seen? We grabbed the keys to the new 2014 Mini Cooper S to find out.

Ok, let’s get this one out of the way. Yes, it is bigger in every dimension than the car that went before it and absolutely dwarfs the 1959 original. But before you all cry “well, that doesn’t make it a Mini then does it?” and grab your pitchforks, you have to remember that 1959 was 55 years ago and a lot has changed. As well as an almost infinite number of crash regulations that requires the car to be substantial enough to protect occupants, the Mini is no longer just one machine. It is a brand, and as a brand it has to adapt to modern times and compete with its rivals to survive. In the case of the all-new Mini Cooper S, its battlefield has become more competitive than ever.

The hot hatchback arena is a fierce place to be with such gladiators as Ford’s Fiesta ST and the new Renaultsport Clio brawling for territory. The previous Cooper S thrived here, however, the competition has evolved and will not be going down without a fight. This new car brings a 189BHP turbocharged four cylinder engine to the melee which powers the front wheels via a proper 6 speed manual gearbox, unlike the Renault’s paddle-shifter only affair. 0-62MPH is completed in 6.8 seconds, 0.1 faster than the Fiesta ST.

Initially there was a lot of controversy over the appearance of the 2014 Mini when some spy photos revealed the car early. Thankfully they happened to be taken from an unflattering angle and at a distance. Considering that a big part of the Mini’s appeal is its look, the importance of people liking the new image can not be overstated. Whilst the car does have headlights that give it the facial expression of someone dropping something heavy on their toe, our test car was a handsome little blighter in the metal. In ostentatious Volcanic Orange contrasted by a black roof and some smart 17 inch darkened alloy wheels, this Cooper S makes a statement. Detailed with chrome trim and a retro fuel filler cap, the overall appearance of this car is both new and familiar at the same time. It is a good balance of character and design evolution. S badging sits proudly on the bodywork and the centred dual exhaust pipes remind you that this is no standard Mini.

The interior has taken a huge step forward in terms of functionality and design. Its once central speedometer has been replaced by a large display that is housed by a ring of light that changes colour dependent on what setting the car is in.. Toggle switches have been retained for various functions including an ominous red one to start the engine. There is more space in this 2014 Mini Cooper S, something that many Mini owners will welcome. Head and leg room in the rear aren’t class leading, but in comparison to the outgoing model, passengers will be more comfortable. The supportive leather seats and a steering wheel at your chest is typical Mini and foreshadows an involving drive. A neat colour heads up display sit on the dashboard directly feeding the driver information on speed and navigation instructions.

Flitting around urban environments revealed that this Mini has done a lot of growing up. It is more comfortable and refined than its predecessor at low speed meaning that hitting a pothole doesn’t result in you loosing your fillings. The ride is still firm, even with optional variable damper control, but then this is a performance focused model and anyone who is complaining needs to reconsider their priorities. Refinement levels are good making this Mini a promising prospect for longterm ownership. At the base of the gearstick is a dial that dramatically alters the cars character. Turn it to the left and you enter a more environmentally friendly mode that makes trees happy and pats Johnny polar bear on the head. Turn it to the right and prepare to watch the world burn as you unlock the true potential of the 2014 Mini Cooper S. Instantly everything firms up with the steering becoming deliciously weighty and body roll almost completely exiled. Put your lead boots on and this pocket rocket takes off. In a gauze of induction noise and exhaust popping, this little car turns into a bit of a hooligan. Racing back and fourth through the gears is like conducting an orchestra  except every musical component has an antisocial behaviour order. Turn-in is sharp as it pivots around bends like a Scalextric toy. Obviously this being a powerful front wheel drive car you will encounter understeer, but with high grip levels you have to be borderline suicidal to find it. In its sportiest setting the Mini’s gearbox rev-matches by blipping the throttle which serves to make you look like a hero behind the wheel. The brakes are good but at times feel like they can’t quite keep up with the intense pace of the car when pushing hard. Throttle response is lively and absent of notable turbo-lag.

You can’t help but smile when driving this car in anger. It may well be a step-up in quality, efficiency and practicality, but it is the pocket monster that lurks beneath its innocently wide-eyed expression that makes the 2014 Mini Cooper S a force to be reckoned with. You can have one for a reasonable £18,650, however, our test car with all of its kit came to a more eye watering £25,350. The Mini is back and better than ever.

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