Mini Coupe Cooper Auto Coupe 2dr Car Review - March 2012

The Cooper Auto Coupe handles very well with steering that is very responsive, if a little overly sensitive. The suspension is firm, giving feedback to the driver through the wheel, although not so firm as to make the car uncomfortable. The Cooper Auto Coupe's responsiveness makes it a wonderful car to drive. The driving position is good and has plenty of adjustment in the seat and the steering wheel, but the visibility is compromised by a tiny back window and a thick C pillar.

In terms of performance it is good to see that the automatic gearbox doesn't affect the speed and acceleration, with the car going from 0-62mph in a brisk 10.3 seconds. The top speed of 123mph is also more than enough for most drivers, and while things can get noisy with engine and wind noise, it is still exhilarating fun.

The front end of the coupe is typically Mini, with the bubble headlights and grille very close to that of the hatchback, but the bolder air intake and vent on the top of the bonnet reveal that this is no standard Mini. The colour contrast of the roof is also very pleasing and the alloy wheels are a welcome addition. That strange roof design is likely to divide opinion though.

The level of equipment is fairly sparse in line with so many other Mini cars, but it does have air conditioning and a CD stereo system as standard. Many features are relegated to the options list including climate control, cruise control, leather seats and Sat Nav.

One of the problems that many people will have with using a coupe is that it isn't always going to be very practical, but the Mini Cooper Coupe does have two seats that offer ample space. The boot is a good size, and has a little access hole within the car which is a very useful feature. Mini are well known for their reliable cars, and the Coupe looks to be following in the footsteps of its predecessors in this respect.

Safety isn't the highest priority in this car, and there are only four airbags that are included as standard. It does however come with the usual range of driving aids that help to keep the driver firmly in control, and it also has a rigid frame to protect the occupants in an accident.

With a list price of £17,855, this really is one of the cheapest automatic coupes that is available on the market. It also offers a wonderful driving experience, and the competent automatic gearbox doesn't affect the performance too badly.

Running the car is also quite reasonable, with a fuel efficiency of an average 44.1mpg, which is particularly good considering the fact that the car is an automatic. Insurance costs are quite low, and the resale values are boosted by the desirability of the coupe and the popularity of the Mini brand. This package is completed by the excellent Mini three year warranty and roadside breakdown assistance, which is very competitive when compared to some of its rivals.