Mini Hatch One Auto 3dr Car Review - February 2012

Although the engine does suffer in terms of performance and responsiveness with the automatic gearbox, the Mini One is still fun to drive and retains the go-kart type handling to be found on the hatchback. The steering is reliable and accurate, and gives plenty of feedback, but the ride may prove to be a little too firm for some people. The driving position is comfortable and there are plenty of adjustment options available that will help to change the position to suit the driver.

The engine is capable of much better performance, but when it is equipped with the automatic gearbox the acceleration and top speed both suffer a little. The acceleration from 0-62mph is 12.3 seconds, and the car is capable of reaching 112mph as its top speed.

Although the Mini One is the budget version of the car, it still looks like a Mini, and the round bubble headlights combine with the traditional grille for a good look. Although the cabin does have a more upright appearance than many other hatchbacks, the result is not unpleasant, and the contrast in the window pillars is also an interesting feature that helps with the traditional Mini look. Inside the cabin, the bold speedometer mounted on the centre console is an interesting if unusual choice, and the body coloured metalwork is also a quirky feature.

The luxuries to be found in the Mini One are minimal, and features such as air conditioning and electric windows in the front of the car are acceptable. The stereo for the Mini is also quite good, but those who are looking for more gadgets will find them all on the optional extras list. The lack of alloy wheels is a particular blow, especially when you consider the list price for the car.

The Mini One is the same shape as the Mini hatchback, and although there are many people who do use them as a family car, it is fair to say that the space in the rear seats of the Mini is a limitation. The boot space is quite good, and those rear seats can be folded forward to give a bit of extra luggage space should it be needed.

In terms of the reliability of the car, Mini's reputation is of making reliable cars, which is certainly reassuring for buyers. The safety equipment on the Mini is quite good, with six airbags and the passenger airbag able to be switched off to suit those who use a baby seat in the passenger seat of their car. Driving aids are also present that will help keep the car on the road, and the ASC+T system from Mini is their own advanced version of traction control.

The list price of £14,485 is quite competitive for a medium sized hatchback, and this is the cheapest version of the Mini available with an automatic gearbox. Although it may not be as practical as some of the competition, many people will still be happy to pay the premium for Mini style.

In terms of the fuel efficiency of the car, adding the automatic gearbox certainly gives the efficiency a hit, with the car only managing an average 44.1mpg. However, the insurance group for the Mini One is good meaning lower premiums, and the resale value for the car is also a big selling point. The warranty included covers the car for three years, and is also supplied with three years of breakdown cover.