2007 Mini Cooper Reviews

Launched to an amazed world in 1959 the Mini became a huge success worldwide as well as in Australia, with it being built in Sydney for years. It faded from the 1980s onwards though some variants were still being made overseas till the year 2000. The British motor industry was in serious trouble for many years and

Despite sceptics having serious doubts about the new Mini when it was launched in the UK and Europe 2001, it has been a big success.

It's a testament to the ability of the new Mini's designers that its freshness hasn't diminished once the initial excitement of its launch faded. Doing a retro model is perhaps the most difficult of things to pull off, but the Mini men appear to have done it.The initial 2002 model paid proper homage to the much-loved original classic. The first new-age model was a fun-filled little car that revived memories of the original for anyone who was old enough to remember, but it also packed its own appeal for a younger generation.It was that generation that would determine the on-going popularity of the Mini, so keeping it fresh was critical if the Mini was to be  around for the long term. The R56 refreshed the Mini with a raft of changes from a new body to a turbocharged engine in the Cooper S, but importantly it remained true to the Mini model.While it remained true to form it didn't compromise on the things required of a car in today's demanding world. As a result the R56 had more power and economy, as well as increased space, comfort and refinement.The cabin of the new model was roomier, the view from inside was brilliantly clear and unobstructed, although there was some criticism of the huge, centrally mounted speedo. The base engine was a 1.6-litre BMW-developed four that had to be stirred along to get the most out of, but the pick of the engines was clearly the new turbocharged version in the Cooper S that adds extra grunt to increase the thrill of the drive.New six-speed gearboxes, manual and auto, also add to the fun. Central to the Mini theme is its chassis with the wheels placed at the corners to give as big a footprint as is possible with a smallish car. The footprint coupled with the tautness of the chassis makes the Mini agile and responsive - just plain fun to drive on a twisty road. The Cooper starts the range, then there's the turbocharged Cooper S, and on top of that each has an optional Chilli pack that boasts bigger alloy wheels, leather and cloth trimmed sports seats and 10 speaker sound.IN THE SHOPThere is nothing to suggest the Mini has any serious issues that should stop you buying one. It's generally well built and quite reliable.The issues that tend to be reported are more one-offs than widespread, and mostly relate to build quality issues. Relatively minor things like remote door locks, window winders etc. are the components most reported. Check for a service record before buying, and have a Mini specialist mechanic check it over.IN A CRASHSix airbags, together with stability control and cornering braking control as well as ABS braking and its associated systems give the Mini an impressive safety arsenal, enough to win five stars from ANCAP.AT THE PUMPMini's makers claimed the Cooper would average 5.8L/100km, the turbocharged Cooper S 6.9L/100km, but on test the Cooper averaged a real-life 8.4L/100km.AT A GLANCEPrice new: $31,100 to $43,500Engine: 1.6-litre 4-cylinder; 88 kW/160 Nm 1.6-litre 4-cylinder turbo; 128 kW/240 NmTransmission: 6-speed manual, 6-speed autoEconomy: 5.8 L/100 km (1.6), 6.9 L/100 km (1.6T) Body: 2-door hatch, 3-door wagon Variants: Cooper, Cooper Chilli, Cooper SSafety: 5-star ANCAP Green: 4-star (Cooper), 3.5-star (Cooper S)VERDICTGreat driving, great looking, fun-filled little car perfect for those who enjoy the drive.COMING UP Do you own or have you owned a Toyota Prado? Share your experience with other Carsguide readers by sending your comments via e-mail to grah.smith@bigpond.com or write to Carsguide, PO Box 4245, Sydney, NSW, 2010.

The new Mini, now owned by BMW, has been a huge success since its launch in Australia in March 2002.Partly because it’s a competent vehicle, but principally due to the fact that geniuses in the marketing have positioned it as a fashion item, not simply a car.As a result of Mini magazines, Facebook pages and numerous owners’ clubs, Minis have been customised in an extraordinary number of fascinating ways. Some of the prices paid are staggering, with the most expensive new Mini in Australia to date topping $100,000.Driving enjoyment is another factor in the car’s success. As a dynamic automotive for the keen driver the BMW Mini is close to perfect. The new Mini has steering that's almost kart-like in its response, in fact it’s almost too quick and first time drivers can get taken by surprise at times.The suspension assists the tyres to grip the road like grim death and the big disc brakes stop hard and straight.On the downside, the ride is fairly harsh and may prove too much for some occupants when it’s cruising on rough Aussie bush roads. The two top versions of the Mini are sold in Australia – the lower cost model, the Mini One, isn’t imported.The Cooper S is the hotshot, having its 1.6-litre engine supercharged prior to the introduction of the new model in March 2007, and turbocharged from then onwards.We really like the supercharged engine, because its torque comes in virtually instantly, whereas the turbo unit inevitably has a slight lag before delivering its all.The supercharged engine has a glorious shriek when you get stuck into it, a sound that’s loved by keen drivers with memories of supercharged racing cars. Externally, you can pick the Cooper S by the bonnet slot for the turbocharger’s intercooler, its chromed side grilles and fuel-filler cap, a small wing protruding from the rear of the roof, twin exhausts and larger (16-inch) alloy wheels.Sports seats have the option of full-leather or cloth/leather, the latter probably the better bet for hot Australian conditions. The steering wheel and gear lever knob are finished in leather and there are aluminium door sill plates carrying Mini Cooper S logos.A Mini cabriolet was launched late in 2004 and has an excellent opening roof system. Not only can it be used to make the Mini an open convertible, but also as a closed car with an open sunroof. The new cabriolet didn’t arrive in Australia until March 2009, two years after the launch of the Mark 2 coupe and it seems likely the two bodies will continue to be out of chronological order from now on.Topping out the Mini range is the Cooper S with the works – the John Cooper Works that is. The Cooper company specialises in improving Minis, both the original models and the new 21st century machines.Engine work on the new Mini is extensive and includes an Eaton supercharger in place of the Rootes unit fitted to the standard Mini Cooper S. Turbo engines in the later JCW’s rely on extra boost, with overboost on offer if you want to get really serious.Early in 2012 a coupe and roadster were added to the Mini range, it’s too early to comment on these as used cars. The new Mini network is well established in Australia. Almost all dealers are in suburban areas, which could lead to hassles if you’re unlucky enough to strike a problem in remote country.Being part of the BMW organisation gives the Mini major advantages in technical backup. Spare parts and servicing charges aren't unreasonable for a car in this class, meaning they are higher than for a typical small car. While it’s possible to do some of your own routine servicing, we suggest you stick with the professionals for all but the most minor tasks, and don’t even think of touching areas that can compromise safety.Most new Minis belong to doting owners and are serviced by the book. You will probably be happy to pay the extra asked for one of these pampered cars – it’s money well spent. Insurance costs are quite high, even more so for one of the ‘charged’ engines. Shop around for insurance, especially if you are young and/or inexperienced.But be sure to make direct comparisons between insurance companies and understand what you're getting – or not getting for your premium dollar.WHAT TO LOOK FORCheck for crash damage, or previous smash repairs. Mismatched paint colours from one panel to another are a good clue – do the inspection in strong light. Also look for ripples in the panels, most easily seen when viewed end on. Tiny drops of paint in unpainted areas like lights, windows and badges are another clue to a respray.Be very wary of a Mini that has been fanged during track days or at a drag strip. Look for a roll cage, lowered suspension and additional instruments. Keep in mind they may have been put back to standard before going on sale.Look over the interior for signs of damage or wear and tear. Don’t forget to check the boot.Check for signs of water stains in a cabriolet, ask to have the carpets removed to check the floor under them. Dry carpets may be new units, so don’t necessarily mean the car hasn't been caught in the rain...Make sure the engine starts easily and idles smoothly. Watch for a puff of smoke from the exhaust when it first kicks over and again when it’s accelerated hard during your road test. Make sure all gear changes are light, easy and quiet. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) fitted on early automatics has unusual sounds during its operation (engine sound, that is, the transmission should be quiet) if you haven’t driven one of these before it’s smart to call in an expert.CAR BUYING TIPWhen looking at any sporting car be sure to avoid one that’s been thrashed. A professional inspector is invaluable in providing advice.

Attempting to reinvent the past is fraught with danger; the motoring graveyard is full of brave, but misguided attempts to breathe new life into past glories.  It's hard to recapture the essence of an older model, to take the thing that made it the runaway success it was and mould it into something as meaningful to today's car buyer.Of all the re-born classics carmakers have tried to pass off on the motoring public in recent times the Mini has clearly been the best and most successful.  The new age Mini not only looked passably like the old one, it had the feel of the old classic as well.MODEL WATCHIt's fair to say that the original Mini was an accidental classic.  It's designer, Sir Alec Issigonis, set out to make an efficient, affordable family car for a country still suffering the ravages of a debilitating war.The efficiency was delivered through a clever packaging approach that employed a boxy body, a wheel planted at each corner, and with the engine swung through 90 degrees from tradition to create a tiny car with a roomy cabin.With a modest engine, manual gearbox and few frills Issigonis's Mini achieved exactly what its designer intended.  Cute looks added to its appeal and the Mini became an instant hit   with car buyers all over the world.But it was to become much more than a cheap and cheerful means of family transport when revheads of the time discovered its stable   chassis could easily handle much more power than it had in its standard form.Grand Prix car designer, John Cooper, was employed to develop a special Mini, one with high performance and nimble handling that was   heaps of fun to drive.  The hot Mini Cooper was the first of Cooper's creations, the next was the even hotter Mini Cooper S that followed, both of which are much-loved classics today.The popularity of the little car was boosted enormously when London's trendy "in" crowd adopted it as their favoured means of transport.   Appearing in movies such as 'The Italian Job' also helped massage the Mini legend.With such a history BMW was under close scrutiny when it set about recreating the Mini in the early-2000's.  Fail and they would have been the laughing stock of the motoring world, but if they got it right they would have a winner on their hands.Fortunately for the German automaker they got it pretty much right, and its new-age Mini was greeted with enthusiasm.  The new Mini was much larger than the original car, but BMW managed to capture the cute looks and proportions that made the original so popular with the result that the new car doesn't look nearly as large as it is in reality.Like the original there was a wheel at each corner, which along with its well-tuned suspension produced a nimble chassis that was thrilling to drive.  One of the few criticisms of the BMW Mini was of the ride, which was thought to be a little too firm for most modern day rear-ends.Initially BMW launched the Mini Cooper with a 1.6-litre single overhead camshaft four-cylinder engine boasting 85 kW and 149 Nm, but   followed up with the Mini Cooper S that had a supercharged version of the engine producing 120 kW and 210 Nm.In standard Cooper guise buyers could choose between a five-speed manual gearbox and a five-speed CVT auto, while the Cooper S only   came with a six-speed manual.An update in 2003 saw the five-speed CVT replaced by a six-speed CVT auto.  Being upmarket models the Cooper and Cooper S had heaps of standard features.Externally there was the retro paint style with a white roof, alloy wheels, lashings of chrome on things like the door handles, grille and exhaust tip.  On the inside there was cloth trim, a leather steering wheel, a split-folding rear seat, air conditioning, CD sound, power windows and mirrors, remote central locking and a trio of cup holders.When it followed the Cooper S had leather trim, sports seats, larger alloys and sports suspension.IN THE SHOPThe Mini is generally a solid performer, but there are a couple of known problems areas. The power steering is noisy, and there are reports of the failure of  the power steering pump.The CVT transmission could be troublesome and should be carefully checked by someone experienced with this type of transmission. The   manual gearbox is the best choice for a fun drive.  Run-flat tyres are expensive and contribute to a firm ride some find uncomfortable.IN A CRASHThe Mini's underlying strength is its stable platform and nimble handling, with predictable power steering and power ABS anti-lock brakes, electronic brakeforce distribution and traction control.In Cooper S guise it also boasted electronic stability control for even more active safety.  Overlaying the active safety was a comprehensive passive safety package of front, side and head airbags.  ANCAP rated the new Mini at four stars.AT THE PUMPMini owner Frank Bradley says he gets 8.9 L/100 km on around town, and 5.7 L/100 km cruising at 100 km/h on long trips.  Those figures closely match the official BMW numbers of 8.5 L/100 km in city driving and 5.6 L/100 km on the highway, but road testers reported fuel consumption of around 10 L/100 km from cars they tested.OWNERS SAYFrank Bradley bought his manual Mini in 2002 when they were first launched and says he would buy another one if and when he was to sell it. He uses it as his daily driver, but it's also become his hobby car since he joined the Victorian Mini Club. His likes include the unique styling, the precise handling, the drivability, incredible brakes and the build quality, while his list of dislikes include the front seat comfort and the noisy power steering pump.Glenys Tidd and her husband have two Minis and says that they would have more room if they had the room. He uses his 2002 Cooper S for longer trips to the city from their country home when he likes the performance; she drives a 2008 Mini Clubman wagon for the room and   the economy. They both have a lot of fun driving their Minis and say anyone with a complaint is not really a Mini person.LOOK FOR. Cute classic looks. Agile chassis. Fun-filled driveALSO CHECK THESE. VW GTi - 2005-2007The VW Golf is the real successor to the original Mini, the GTi the successor to the Mini Cooper and Cooper S, using the same formula of   brilliant packaging and sizzling performance. The GTi sets the hot hatch benchmark. Pay $25,000-$30,000.. FORD FOCUS XR5-T - 2006-2007Like the rest of the auto world Ford took up the Mini philosophy and built on it with cars like the Focus XR5, the hot sports hatch in the   Focus range. Terrific performance, great handling, an excellent all-rounder. Pay $25,000-$27,000.. PEUGEOT 206 GTi 180 - 2004-2007Peugeot and VW were constant contenders for the hot hatch title after the departure of the original Mini. The 206 GTi 180 delivered a   genuinely sporty ride with a punchy engine and excellent chassis. Pay $16,000-$22,000.THE BOTTOM LINEFun-filled driver that successfully recalls the past.

A first Australian drive of the beefed-up CooperS showed just what a few thousand dollars and some relatively minor enhancements can do for what was already an impressive fun machine.The engine kit; larger airbox, free-flow twin exhaust and enhanced ECU programming; will set you back $3800 plus fitting by a Mini Garage specialist but brings a 10 per cent boost in power, lifting output from the twin-scroll 1.6-litre engine to 141kW as well as adding an additional 10Nm of urge.Unlike the previous generation of supercharged engines the JCW kit does not include a cylinder head swap.A sports suspension package which firms the damper rate and lowers the Mini by 10mm adds $1460; while the aero body kit ($2696), performance brakes ($2015) and 18-inch wheels with 205/40 run-flat rubber ($5100) all but complete the external enhancements.If you really want to stand out there is a carbon-fibre roof-mounted rear wing yet to be priced.Inside the Cooper S, the usual main opportunity is a set of extremely comfortable and supportive Recaro sport seats at $7000 a set.Unlike some sports seats the Mini buckets retain their side airbag protection through a not particularly attractive mounting on the outside of the seat; with the activator tucked away between the seat and the transmission tunnel.While the full enhancement kit on the JCW model built up by BMW runs to something more than $22,000 over and above the cost of the Cooper S, the company doesn't expect it to hinder sales.“I expect that we will sell a lot more of the engine kits by themselves than the engine and body kits together,” Mini's Alexander Corne says.“From the experience of the first generation of John Cooper Works sales where about 10 per cent of Cooper S buyers added the engine enhancements it is likely to be around the same this time.“These are people who want the extra performance to go with the show.”Corne says Mini buyers, on average, will add about $4000 worth of custom options to their new car.“These are not people agonising over a $19,990 car,” Corne says.“These are people who want individuality in their cars. They are saying, how can I make this car mine?.”On the road the JCW-enhanced Cooper S is all about expanding the envelope for the Mini's go-kart-like performance.The twin-scroll turbocharger unit, which replaced the previous supercharged model is only improved by the ECU tweaks in the JCW tuning.There is no breathtaking improvement but the same table-flat torque characteristic from just a tick over 1600rpm right through to 5000rpm is present and accounted for; with just that little extra.The 250Nm in the JCW-enhanced vehicle may only be an increase of just over 3 per cent but it improves not only the 0-100km/h sprint time but the all-important 80-120km/h times in fourth, fifth and sixth gears.The elastic nature of the little turbo makes the Mini a delight to punch along, enhanced even further by the slick six-speed manual box. With the suspension wound off to improve the ride quality in the basic Cooper S, the JCW suspension pack effectively replaces what had been lost.In spite of the lower ride height, sharper damper rates and low profile run-flat tyres the ride is anything but harsh.Traditionally, the Mini has never met a corner it doesn't like.As far back as Alec Issigonis's original “brick on wheels” the core of a Mini has been its uncanny ability to suck up the road and slide around corners.The enhancements simply work to make it even more defiant of physics. SnapshotMini Cooper S JCWFrom: $43,790Engine: 1.6L/4-cylinder twin-scroll turbochargedPower: 141kWTorque: 250Nm (270Nm on overboost)Transmission: 6-speed manual, 6-speed automatic; front-wheel drivePerformacne: 0-100km/h 6.8sec (manual) 

It lurks on the roof of the new Mini Cooper S and if it wasn’t designed by a woman, or perhaps a committee of women, I’ll eat a beach towel.Amazingly, I very nearly missed out on finding this simpering switch altogether.I had merely made a mental note to moan endlessly about the fact that the interior lighting was far too bright, and an annoying shade of blue to boot.But then I went on a stupidly long drive to the snow from Sydney, entirely in the dark. By the time I got to Goulburn I was so annoyed at being bathed in the sort of light you normally only find in tanning salons that I decided there had to be adjustment available to me.After playing with all the available – and beautifully funky feeling – toggles and buttons I found the right one, flicked it and nearly crashed the car.Far from dimming this blithering blue light, the switch merely changed it to a pinky hue I can only describe as “dawn at the beach”.Intrigued, yet revolted, I kept flicking and found that the car’s mood lighting can be changed to vermillion, purple, a Midori green, a yellow-and-brown Austin Powers kind of motif and, thankfully, orange.I say thankfully because at least the orange choice blends in with the rest of the dash lighting, although the combined effect is so bright you feel like you’re driving around in a ’70s kitchen.Of course a little bit of kitsch is to be expected when an idea like the Mini is recooked, as this one was recently, gaining a turbocharged 1.6-litre engine and exterior tweaks so subtle that they’re like the effect of ageing on Elle McPherson’s body.You know they must be there, but they’re not really noticeable, and the overall effect is still so darn pretty.The shame about this shameful mood-lighting switch (surely it would make more sense in a 7 Series, where you can stretch out a bit) is that it taints what is otherwise an excellent, and much-improved, interior.The last Cooper S had a grey plastic finish that looked like it had been set upon by a whole childcare centre full of greasy fingered little fiends. It was supposed to look like brushed aluminium, I think, but it just looked liked rushed ab-libbing by the designers.Our test vehicle was all red leather and funky fake-wood plastic, but it all felt pleasant and of BMW build quality.And the dash just might be the coolest in the whole car world.The centrally mounted speedo has an indicator arrow whizzing around the outside, like one of those old-style weighing scales you used to find outside chemists, leaving space in the middle for a groovy little screen.This screen displays functions that can be selected with a very simple but still slightly iDrive- like controller, or the satellite navigation map.On the steering binnacle in front of you is a rev counter which can, if you like, also display a digital readout of your speed.When the Mini was first launched here, they couldn’t get away with that arrangement, due to ADRs, and we were the only country in the world with the speedo stuck to the steering wheel, but this time they’ve got around it.Looking at your speed on the massive central dial is totally impractical and no one likes having that information displayed where your passenger can see it so clearly anyway, but you put up with it because, as I say, the dash just looks so cool (even in vermillion-bathed light).While the old Cooper S was supercharged, and had a wondrous whine to go with that, the new engine – shared with the PSA Peugeot-Citroen group – is an award-winning turbo unit and offers more lowdown punch and usable torque than before.You get 128kW of power at a joyous 5500rpm and 240Nm of torque from 1600rpm to 5000rpm, which blips up to 260Nm via an overboost function when you really boot it.The result is a lot more fun than 128 kilowatts should be, and a 0 to 100km/h time of 7.1 seconds.The turbo doesn’t sound as good as the engine it replaces, but the performance more than makes up for that.Not many people can engineer fun into a car as cleverly as BMW/Mini and, much like its parent company’s cars, the best thing about the new Cooper is the steering.It really is go-kart like in that it needs so little lock wound on and it responds so pointedly.The great thing about the Mini is that it can make even the boredom of the urban commute fun – the bends on and off the Anzac Bridge every day were a particular joy.The ride isn’t too bad, for a car with such a short wheelbase, until you hit an expansion joint and it feels like you’ve run over a sequoia trunk. Not only do your teeth rattle, your ribs do.In short, and sweet, form, there’s a lot to love about the new Mini Cooper S, even with its stupid interior lighting system.It is, of course, entirely impractical if you’re ever going to carry more than one friend. And it is, undeniably, very expensive for a small car – prices start at $39,900 in standard trim and rise to very nearly $50k.But it’s not meant to be a practical car, it’s mean to be a fun one and on that basis it’s worth every cent.

Mini became an icon of the 1960s with stars such as the Beatles, Rolling Stones and Twiggy driving them.It symbolised the younger generation's lust for a happy carefree life.When the BMW-owned Mini was resurrected in 2001, it retained much of its retro looks, including the happy face and cute lines, but was substantially bigger than the original.Now comes the second-generation Mini.With its retro design, there isn't much they could do to modernise the looks.Subtle tweaks here and there, but largely the same car.Cosmetic changes include a higher bonnet, higher and wider mirrors, more chrome, a higher shoulder line and new wheel designs.It's also a little bigger.Have a look at it next to other light-category cars and it stands a little wider and taller than most. It's almost in the small car category.However, with its minute boot, this is a happy little city car for four very close young people who don't mind a few quirks.After a week of living with a Mini Cooper, I found the quirks a little difficult to overcome for this 50-year-old humbug.Quirks such as having to jam my hand down between the armrest and seat to adjust the driver's seat back.Quirks such as having to look at the speedo in the centre stack, instead of right in front of me. (There is a small digital speed format on the screen in front of the driver, but it is difficult to see in some light conditions.)Quirks such as the unlocking switch which toggles both ways and alternately locks and unlocks the door. (I could never get it right as my youngest daughter tried to open the door when I picked her up from school.)Quirks such as a panoramic sunroof that stretches all the way from front to back and can't be closed. Only a “fly” screen of gauze kept my bald pate from the sun, and in summer it will be like a tandoori oven.And quirks such as the difficulty of applying the handbrake because the arm rest is in the way.There is no denying this car tries to be different. You either love it or hate it.Just look at the circular design of the door trim. And how about that relocated school-clock-sized speedo?Apart from the speedo relocation, other internal changes include new instruments and centre stack, a steering wheel that is thankfully now reach as well as height adjustable, more aircraft-style toggle switches up by the interior light and a start/stop button on the dashboard.Women will also love the interior lights which can be changed from blue through orange, pink, and red by flicking the switch.For all these changes, the price has increased $1110 to $31,100.The five-speed manual has been replaced by a slick-shifting six-speed manual, but I had the six-speed auto with steering wheel paddle shifters.It's an additional $2200, whereas previously it was an extra $2110 for the CVT.I found the auto did some crazy things.It was trying to out-think me and consequently couldn't be trusted to pick the right gear; or was it me that couldn't be trusted to drive in a sensible and non-erratic manner?If you allow it to do its own thing, it can be annoying, but if you use the paddle shifters, it rewards with rapid-fire Formula One-style shifting.One thing I couldn't fault was the famous go-kart handling.Yes, it does go round corners like a train. A train with torque steer.Go-kart handling goes hand in hand with go-kart ride characteristics and this one is no different. I hit one pothole on the inner-city bypass that I thought may have dislodged the whole wheel. At least it happened near my chiropractor's office.The engine feels a little asthmatic and could benefit from an aftermarket breather.However, according to the figures, power is up 3kW to 88kW at 6000rpm. That's not a discernible difference to anyone but maybe Formula One champion Fernando Alonso.Torque is supposed to be 140Nm from 2000rpm with a peak of 160Nm at 4250rpm, which is up 10Nm. Yet someone didn't tell the automatic box about these figures as it fished around for gears.This new all-aluminium engine is a joint development by BMW and Peugeot, proving that the French and the Germans can work together.Not only does the car produce more power and torque, but Mini claims a 16 per cent improvement in fuel economy at 5.8litres/100km.Owing to my game of hide and seek with the gears, that blew out to over 7litres/100km.   Mini Cooper$31,100Engine: 1598cc, 16-valve, in-line 4-cylinderPower: 88kW @ 6000rpmTorque: 160Nm @ 4250rpmAcceleration: 0-100km/h in 9.1secTransmission: 6-speed automaticEconomy: 5.8L/100kmFuel: 91RON ULP, 40L tankDimensions (MM): 3699 (l), 1683 (w), 1407 (h), 2467 (wheelbase), 139 (ground clearance)Suspension: single-joint MacPherson strut with anti-dive (front), longitudinal struts with centrally-pivoted control arms, Z-axle (rear)Brakes: 280mm front vented disc, 259mm rear, ABS, electronic brakeforce distribution, cornering brake control and brake assistDriver Aids: stability and traction control, optional dynamic stability control with hill start assistSteering: electric power assistedCO2 Emissions: 139g/km, EU4 

Based on the cold, hard facts before us, forking out more than $50,000 for a Mini would be a ludicrous act. Mad. Wasteful.Unimaginable considering the costs involved, size of the car and unremarkable set of numbers that come out from under the bonnet.But after a wonderful drive in the all-new, 'all-BMW' Mini Cooper S, we've a dilemma.When we rationalise the decision, and recall the fabulous moments we've had in cheaper and faster hot hatches, this R56-series Mini misses the mark. If we're honest with ourselves, however, the raw data tends to take a back seat to feelings that linger long after we hand the car back. This is hard to explain.It has nothing to do with nostalgia — this writer has more emotion invested in Coopers beer than Cooper cars — but relates to the warm, comfortable and familiar feeling we'd get whenever we looked at the Mini, whenever we sat inside the whimsical cabin, and whenever we thrashed the little turbo to hear its sweet, smooth revs and its exhaust pop like a penny banger.To some extent its also about the trust we have in BMW to build a safe and solid car, but which in this case has a fun and immature character that the German maker would never dare emulate with cars under its own label.It is reassuring to know the Mini has achieved a five-star Euro NCAP crash-test result, has six airbags, has the latest ABS brakes (with electronic brake-force distribution, brake assist and cornering brake control), that cabin fit-and-finish is first-rate and attention to detail, in most respects, is outstanding.Further vindication came recently when the 1.6-litre turbocharged engine won its class at the renowned International Engine of the Year Awards. Built in collaboration with PSA Peugeot-Citroen, the lightweight aluminium engine features a twin-scroll turbo, direct petrol injection and infinite variable valve timing. It does not have the emotive whine of the previous (Chrysler-sourced) supercharged engine, and has none of the burble and crackle that arose on the overrun, but more than makes amends with its extra smoothness and strength, lower emissions and consumption.The figures themselves are moderate for a three-door hatch priced from $39,900 in standard Cooper S form, rising to $43,500 in Chilli trim and $49,260 as tested here (without on-road costs).The engine produces 128kW of power at 5500rpm and 240Nm of torque from 1600rpm to 5000rpm, with the latter increasing to 260Nm via an overboost function when given a full dose of the accelerator.The result is 0-100km/h in 7.1 seconds and fuel consumption of 6.9l/00km (according to a theoretical test). Our real-world average of 9.4l/100km was nowhere near the latter, but wasn't bad considering the manner in which the Cooper S encourages the driver to explore its boundaries.As was the case with the previous generation, sheer performance is less critical in the front-drive Cooper S than the all-round amusement it provides.The engine is flexible, delivers its power in linear fashion, reveals a forceful nature when revved hard toward its 6500rpm redline and, above all, creates the basis for the fun-filled drive. But no test drive around the block from a showroom will do. It took our favourite winding roads for the Cooper S — which was optioned to the hilt with sports suspension (no cost), a limited-slip differential ($280) and DSC traction electronics ($840) — to deliver the taut, engrossing drive that has, in part, created the dilemma over its net worth.There is some torque-steer when powering out of corners, some chirping from the low-profile (205/45) 17-inch Dunlops when shifting from first to second under hard acceleration.But these add to the experience rather than detract as the Cooper S remains fastened to the road, shows excellent balance and poise and steers with tremendous precision.The firm and unforgiving suspension can be tiresome over a long distances, thumping across road reflectors, bridge seals and broken bitumen, while the run-flat tyres — which, like it or not, negate the need for a spare wheel — roar across coarse bluestone and gravel surfaces. But there is little room for criticism in the driving department.Inside, the cabin is even more idiosyncratic with new features such a monumental dinner plate (20cm diameter) speedometer in the centre of the dashboard, along with single-zone climate controls in the form of the Mini motif and, in the roof lining, a second row of toggle switches for functions such as mood lighting when the large optional sunroof ($1840) or a lights package is specified.There are some problems. Despite its size, the speedo is hard to read at a glance and forces the driver to program a digital speedo on the small LCD screen inside the tachometer, the latter continuing as a large (10cm diameter) gauge glued to the steering column.The trip computer and audio controls on the bottom third of the speedo are far from intuitive. The climate controls further down the centre stack make it easy to send the fan whirring at full-pelt when intending to block out fumes with the air recirculation button.Set inside the speedo, the fuel gauge's “windmill blade” design forces the driver to refer to one of three other screens for a more accurate reading. There are no coolant or oil temperature gauges. No variable intermittent wipers. No lock on the glovebox. And nowhere near enough attention paid to storage, although the back seat tends to be used as part of the load space given the severe shortage of space there.Despite the four-seater Cooper being about 60mm longer than the previous R50 version, there is no rear-seat legroom to speak of if the driver is taller than, say, 6ft (1.83m).But this is a self-indulgent vehicle. It shows that no compromises were made in driver's seat travel, and the driving position as a whole.The aluminium-faced pedals are better placed than before, the thick-rimmed three-spoke steering wheel has buttons for cruise control, telephone and basic audio functions (for the Chilli's thumping 10-speaker stereo), and the ignition fires via a start button.Electric seat adjustment is nowhere to be seen, even with optional full-leather trim ($1460) and electric seat warmers ($490) onboard. But a full range of (effortless) manual adjustment is provided and the bolstering under the ribcage and thighs holds the driver tight.Luggage space is small. The distance to the upright seatbacks is a mere 38cm, floor width 92cm and height to the parcel shelf 50cm, although metre-long objects can be stuffed in when the 50/50-split seatbacks are folded. There is no fold and tumble action for the rear seats to maximise cargo room.We have to remind ourselves that this is a Mini. This might be an all-new version, with no shared panels with its predecessor, but BMW hasn't dared mess with a successful formula. Second OpinionMichael Strachan, 31Occupation: Recruitment consultantLocation: Hoppers Crossing, VicNew car: Mini Cooper S ChilliPrevious car: Falcon XR6 utilityOther cars considered: Renault Sport Megane 225 Cup A previous-generation Mini Cooper owner, Michael Strachan almost bought the Renault Sport Megane.But this time around he went the whole hog with a Cooper S in Chilli trim and a host of extras."The Megane turbo is a fantastic car but it still doesn't have the drive or just the appeal of the Minis," he says. "There's no other car on the road that has the smile factor of the Mini. There're also little things, like with the turbo Megane you can't get it with a sunroof — whereas you can get anything you want in a Mini, and that comes a lot into it."The ride is probably the most improved over my previous Mini. It's a lot more pliable — there's a little bit more bodyroll through corners taken with great speed, which I occasionally do, but for day-to-day driving it's much more pleasant."I find a bit of torque steer (when) accelerating hard but on the whole it's something you learn to just ease on the throttle a little. I've taken it on some spirited runs with other Minis, and it runs fantastic."Anyone who buys a Mini does it as a selfish purchase."You buy the car for yourself — you don't buy it for lugging a family around." Verdict Plus: Unmistakable design. Fascinating interior. Terrific handling.Minus: Engine's aural qualities toned down. Cramped back seat. No spare wheel. How it measures upMini Cooper S ChilliComment: Mini enters a new era with this 'R56' series. Turbo is less emotive, but the drive still fascinates. Fabulous handling, steering, braking. The run-flat tyres can be harsh. Unique, but expensive. Gatecrasher ... Peugeot 207 GTi with same engine here in August.Price: $43,500Warranty: 3 years/Unlimited kmEngine: 1.6-litre turbocharged fourPower/Torque: 128kW/240NmTransmission: Front-drive, six-speed manual (six-speed automatic $2200)Seats/Weight: Four/1130kgFuel tank/type: 50 litres/premium unleadedLitres/100km: 6.9 city/highway combined0-100km/h: 7.1 secondsTurning circle: 10.7mAirbags/ESC: Six/Yes Ratings Value: * * * 1/2Performance: * * * *Overall: * * * 1/2 Volkswagen Golf GTI 3 doorComment: Mini diehards will call GTI boring, bland. Less garrulous and fewer gimmicks, but GTI is not without heritage. This incarnation offers a rich blend of performance and handling. Great all-rounder. If only ... new GTI concept has a 477kW W12 engine!Price: $38,490Warranty: 3 years/100,000kmEngine: 2.0-litre turbocharged fourPower/Torque: 147kW/280NmTransmission: Front-drive, six-speed manual (six-speed DSG auto $2300)Seats/Weight: Five/1340kgFuel tank/type: 55 litres/premium unleadedLitres/100km: 8.1 city/highway combined0-100km/h: 7.2 secondsTurning circle: Turning circle: 10.9mAirbags/ESC: Six/Yes Ratings Value: * * * *Performance: * * * *Overall: * * * * Ford Focus XR5 TurboComment: Not a "hot four" with its 2.5-litre inline-five turbo, but XR5's Volvo-sourced engine is a ripsnorter. Handling, sharp steering and powerful braking are also along for the drive. No cruise control a sore point. Low heat ... 110kW 2.0-litre Fiesta XR4 on sale at $24,990.Price: $36,490Warranty: 3 years/100,000kmEngine: 2.5-litre turbocharged fivePower/Torque: 166kW/320NmTransmission: Front-drive, six-speed manual onlySeats/Weight: Five/1442kgFuel tank/type: 55 litres/premium unleadedLitres/100km: 9.3 city/highway combined0-100km/h: 6.8 secondsTurning circle: 11.7mAirbags/ESC: Six/Yes RatingsValue: * * * 1/2Performance: * * * *Overall: * * * * Renault Sport Megane 225 3 doorComment: Note HSV's Astra VXR and Honda's Civic Type-R. But hot Megane leaves its mark. Impresses in most areas. On 5dr for $44,490 you get stiffer suspension, fatter tyres, drilled disc brakes. Look again ... even hotter Megane 228 F1 R26 due late August.Price: $37,990Warranty: 3 years/100,000kmEngine: 2.0-litre turbocharged fourPower/Torque: 165kW/300NmTransmission: Front-wheel drive, six-speed manual onlySeats/Weight: Five/1325kgFuel tank/type: 60 litres/premium unleadedLitres/100km: 8.8 combined0-100km/h: 6.5 secondsTurning circle: 10.5mAirbags/ESC: Six/Yes Ratings Value: * * * 1/2Performance: * * * *Overall: * * * 1/2 

Nothing so neatly sums up the drab conformity of the industrial age as Henry Ford's grim quip about his Model T: “Any customer can have a car painted any colour that he wants so long as it's black.”No single mode of affordable personal mobility offers such a sharp riposte as the R56 Mini range.So bewilderingly varied are the number of exterior and interior trim combinations of the second-generation New Mini (or the new New Mini, if you must), you'd need Einstein or Tesla to make sense of it.The Mini people posit a figure of 15,000,000,000,000,000 — and that's before you start tooling about under the hood with added (additional added?) extras such as the John Cooper Works kit.I copied this number (at least that's what I assume it is) into a notepad while being shown through the Mini plant at Oxford last year. From time to time, I take it out and just sort of stare at it.Yet, on the evidence of the Mini Cooper S now in our hands, it may even be true.This so-called Exclusive model is an early-build show car with 17 optional features, thrusting the base $39,000 asking price to $55,255.Before you delve into this list — which includes a glass roof and joystick-operated satnav — you'll need to choose exterior and interior colour and trim.These in themselves comprise a combination of choices barely graspable. Ours just happens to be of a fairly conventional silver hue — sans racing stripes or Union Jacks — with deep tan leather trim and accents.Which is nice, if only because someone with greater powers of clarity than us has already made the tough decisions, thus saving months of poring over catalogues or online configurators in agonised indecision. It's not so much a burden of choice as a life-sapping crush.Yet the great majority of Mini punters opt for bespokedness of some degree, ensuring almost every Mini you see will have an individuality as distinct as DNA.When the buyer finally gets around to inserting the orb-shaped “key” in the dash and pressing the starter button, they should come to appreciate a drive that's a marginal, but marked, improvement over the previous model.That's down almost entirely to the direct-injection, 1.6-litre four with twin-scroll turbocharger. With a maximum 128kW, this develops a barely discernible 3kW more than the previous supercharged unit, but packs a much more immediately usable 240Nm.An increase of 20Nm over the Gen One, this can be shoved up to 260Nm via the overboost function, enhancing an already bulging torque curve that kicks in at 1600rpm and stays on line until five grand.As though to prove Mini buyers are interested in blowers other than those wielded by their hair stylists, some have touchingly, if unrealistically, demanded the restoration of the supercharger. Well may they whine, because the new engine doesn't.The official 0-100km/h sprint figure is 7.1 seconds, though in something so compact — less than 3m long and barely 1.1 tonnes — the rush is more visceral than numbers convey.When it comes to getting around corners slickly, you'd expect something a bit special — and the Cooper S (almost) delivers.A turn-in that's sabre-sharp is slightly denuded by the electro-mechanical steering's rather remote feel, though in most circumstances it serves perfectly well.Run-flat tyres can cause rollerskate skittering where less rigid sidewalls won't, but the Coop's suspension set-up, seemingly more compliant than before, is well up to most dynamic demands.A six-speed manual, geared slightly too tall in BMW fashion, is the only transmission choice. Accessed easily from an upright, well-supported driving position, it also resembles the parent company's sticks in its ease of action.A more pronounced gate between reverse and first wouldn't hurt. It could conceivably prevent a bit of pain.Things such as these remind you that the Mini is essentially a compact, front-wheel-drive BMW. Except that unlike the utterly ubiquitous conformism of a silver 1 Series, a bespoke Mini will shout “Me!” Fast factsMini Cooper SOn sale: NowPrice: From $39,000 plus endless optionsBody: HatchEngine: 1.6-litre, four-cylinder turbo petrol, 128kW, 240-260NmTransmission: Six-speed manual, front-wheel drivePerformance: 0-100km/h in 7.1 seconds (claim)Fuel: 6.9 litres per 100km (combined claim)Safety: Includes ABS, Brake Assist, Cornering Brake Control, stability control plus traction, brake assist, six airbags