Mini Hatch Cooper SD 3dr Car Review - March 2012

The Mini Hatch Cooper is powered by a four cylinder engine which delivers a maximum power output of 143 bhp at 4000 rpm with torque figures of 225 lb-ft at 1750-2700 rpm. This gives the car an impressive top speed of 134 mph whilst acceleration is fairly rapid, reaching 0-62 mph in just 8.1 seconds.

The engine delivers good levels of response to the driver and this is matched by comfortable handling, which make the overall driving experience fun and lively. The engine works smoothly and quietly as well and this means that there is limited noise disruption within the cabin. Road and wind noise is a little bit of a problem however, and whilst the gearstick is smooth it is easy to accidentally select the wrong gear due to close positioning.

Style and appearances are one of the main selling points of the Mini range but unfortunately the quality of the interior lets this hatchback model down. Basic features are fitted as standard but those who want all modern luxuries will be expected to pay a fair amount of money for the privilege.

Standard equipment includes power steering, central locking, stability control, alloy wheels, air conditioning, electric door mirrors, electric front windows and an advanced stereo system with CD and MP3 connectivity. The air conditioning can be upgraded to more advanced climate control for £235 whilst other options such as cruise control, a built-in sat nav, Bluetooth connectivity, rear parking sensors and leather seats are also available as chargeable extras.

In terms of practicality, the car offers a decent amount of head and legroom within the cabin with even rear seats comfortably accommodating two passengers. Unfortunately, a low door opening means that getting in and out of the car can be difficult and a boot which offers just 160 litres of space with the seats up is less than ideal for a family car. Folding the seats down will increase the storage space to 680 litres.

In terms of comfort, there is a lot of room for adjustment in both the seats and the steering column. Unfortunately, the dashboard lacks the quality feel expected and is relatively disorganised, making it difficult for drivers to operate controls.

With a three year warranty on unlimited miles, reliability should be a strong point of this car. It also performed well in the NCAP crash tests where it achieved a full five star rating for occupant safety thanks to an advanced safety kit which contains driver, passenger and front side airbags all as standard features. An immobiliser and alarm are also fitted to the car as standard to protect against theft.

Priced at £18,810 the Mini is at the upper end of the scale within its class. However, the strong resale values make the car a wise investment and no other small car retains its value as well as the Mini.

In terms of efficiency, the car achieves 65.7 mpg - an excellent figure and one which will save consumers a lot in terms of fuel. Carbon emissions are low at just 114 g/km, putting the car into a low tax band (C).

Overall, the Mini performs well as a family vehicle and there are plenty of economical benefits with this model. Even insurance premiums are reasonable under insurance group 22, giving customers a great value vehicle.