Mini Cooper 2011 Review

That Mini leverages BMW's vast store of automotive knowledge is a given but the iconic front drive hatch has earned plenty of kudos in its own right since the resurrection a few years ago now. Mini is an aspirational vehicle. Because BMW doesn't have a front wheel drive passenger car in its line-up, Mini takes care of that popular niche.

DESIGN

The Mini hatch was recently upgraded with a new look inside and out as well as a more bulbous bonnet designed for improved pedestrian safety. It still looks like a Mini though.

We got our grubby little mitts on the range-topping John Cooper Works (JCW) Cooper S and have to admit an immediate attraction such a cute little car with such a bad attitude it's truly engaging. We love the new LED tail lights and the test car scored adaptive bi-xenon headlights that look around corners.

The JCW treatment brings with it a certain look that includes larger alloy wheels in this case black painted to match the bodywork, better brakes, firmer suspension and a Sport button next to the gear stick. We had that on all the time.

VALUE

The factory prepared JCW costs a sobering $49,200 but you get plenty for the money including a fuel efficient 1.6-litre petrol engine with a twin scroll turbo and variable valve timing similar to BMW's Valvetronic system. See, it pays to have influential friends. Plenty of kit is provided including an impressive audio system, Bluetooth phone and auto headlights and wipers. They have also fitted a huge centre mounted speedo just like the original cars.

TECHNOLOGY

The engine is good for 155kW/280Nm output, sufficient to propel the 1205kg JCW hatch from 0-100kmh in a scant 6.8 seconds. But more important is the roll-on throttle response from the torquey four pot it feels impressive at all speeds aided by the short throw, slick shifting six speed manual transmission.

DRIVING

We love it for the robust engine performance, the kart-like dynamics, the snap, crackle and pop from the exhaust when changing gears and the quality look and feel to the entire package especially the interior. It's a cinch to park, has plenty of room inside for four if the front passengers aren't over 185cm and you get serious performance for minimal fuel use.

Some might say its performance doesn't stack up against a Subaru WRX that costs less but in doing that, you aren't comparing apples with apples. The Mini is a stylish, impeccably built, good looking premium small car with sports performance and brilliant handling. It is for a more discerning buyer than any of the plastic fantastic "go fasties" that infest the small car segment.

MINI COOPER S JCW

Price: from $49,200
Engine: 155kW/260-280Nm 4-cylinder twin-scroll turbo petrol
Transmissions: six-speed manual, six-speed auto
Fuel consumption: 6.9-7.0L/100km
CO2 (g/km): 165-169