Mini Reviews

The sixth distinct new-age Mini model makes its mark. Not since the Suzuki Mighty Boy has such outrage hit the bitumen.In yet another variation on a theme, the Mini franchise has produced a pocket-book two-door model that appeals to anyone who wants to be seen. There is no classification for a buyer of this car and, indeed, probably competes with cars that tend to be a little on the quirky side of the street. Like the long-gone Might Boy and the Suzuki Move. The Mini Coupe appears short, yet is based on the original hatchback platform, and wide, snub-nosed in arrogance and beetle-tailed - a rear styling quirk that looks like the proceeds of an incident with a large truck or a randy Land Cruiser. Not a lot, but who can put a price on being distinctive? It's well built and the feature list is average. The option list is huge, but that's what creates the exclusivity of the car. The Coupe makes some sense for single buyers, even couples, but at $45,340 it's an expensive two seater and there's probably more than a few dozen rivals that'll do the transport aspect of the job better and cheaper.But not as obvious. There's four models - Cooper, Cooper S, a diesel and a hot John Cooper Works - with the tester being the S with its turbo-petrol engine and auto gearbox. Price is $45,340, up $2350 on the manual gearbox, and includes 17-inch alloys, sport button, bi-xenon headlights, climate aircon and cloths seats. Options include leather ($1560), the must-have Harman-Kardon audio ($1500) and metallic paint ($900).Different. As the platypus of the Mini family, the Coupe looks convoluted and even awkward, but hides a neat liftback to access the expansive room once used by folded rear-seat passengers. It's a better solution to the near-zero space offered by the hatch model's rear seat. There's a centre hatch to prod long objects from the boot into the cabin, a main glovebox and a secondary "secret'' dash compartment. The pop-up rear spoiler is merely a talking point.The biggest surprise about the dashboard is that Mini hasn't changed it (though future models get window switches on the doors) and it remains a mish-mash of switch gear designs and locations set beneath an enormous, perspex-covered and highly reflective speedometer that harks back to the original Mini's folly. It's 2012 guys.The six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission is a highlight here. It works well with the power characteristics of the S-model's turbo engine, is responsive and doesn't have the chasms of indecision that often plague Volkswagen's DSG system. The engine, made by PSA and seen on its Peugeot RCZ, is also a top-notch powerplant. The suspension is firm yet not too hard on the body, while the electric steering is nice and sharp.This is a five-star car with four airbags (there's only two occupants) and all the BMW-inspired electronic aids. That 's stability and traction control, rear park sensors, a hill-holder and auto bi-xenon headlights and wipers. There's no rear wiper and no spare wheel as it uses run-flat tyres. Predictable, firm and reminiscent of a go-kart for kids, the Coupe loses none of the precision of the other (except Countryman) Minis. It is a very enjoyable drive, the only distraction being the need to keep a few brain neurons free to memorise the erratic switch placement. The coupe roof crimps the cabin space a bit and thanks to a multi-pillared C-section, reduces visibility to the rear three-quarters - not helped in lane changing by the small mirrors.It's not particularly quiet with some wind noise and even more tyre noise over coarse bitumen. But the engine cooling fan wins the gold medal for noise. It runs after engine switch and produces colourful language from neighbours when arriving home late at night. But I love driving Minis. The handling is so confident that you can change tack mid-corner, while the engine just keeps on giving.

The Mini Cooper S Coupe is powered by a 1.6-litre four-cylinder turbocharged engine delivering 135 kW of power (the JCW engine weighs in with 20 kW more) and 240Nm of torque mated with a six-speed manual gearbox. Acceleration is 0-100km/h in 7.0 seconds. While fuel economy comes in at 6.3l/100km. There’s also a Mini John Cooper Works Pack to add even more oomph to performance.Standard equipment in this stunning looking little Mini Coupe is generous, with bi-xenon headlights, speed-sensitive power steering, electric exterior mirrors, parking audio alarm, height-adjustable seats, automatic climate control, Bluetooth hands-free function with USB audio interface and an audio system with MP3-compatible CD player and AUX connection.Optional equipment includes black headlight housing, adaptive headlamp system, automatic dimming rear-view mirror and exterior mirrors. Buyers can also choose from equipment such as a 10-speaker Harman Kardon hi-fi, the Mini Visual Boost radio or Mini navigation system.DESIGNTo waist height the stunning new Mini Coupe looks much like any other Mini. After that it’s obvious that all hell broke loose in the styling studio. Just look at the steep slope of the windscreen, the distinctive rear glass treatment and a sharply curved roof in a contrasting colour.The very different roof of the Mini Coupe has already gained the nicknames of ‘helmet top’ and ‘helmet head’ and is a talking point wherever you drive it.If you don’t like the very different roof of the new Mini Coupe, but do find favour with the rest of the car, then the Mini people can sell you an open Roadster version instead. Indeed this was our vehicle of choice when we made the booking, but the Mini PR gang decided we wouldn't like to test a topless car in winter.The curve of the roof finishes with a spoiler on the leading edge of the tailgate. There’s another spoiler, this time an active one that pops up when the Mini Coupe reaches 80 km/h. At maximum speed of around 224 km/h this spoiler applies extra downforce of 40 kg for safer high-speed stability. Total weight of the Mini Coupe is slightly skewed to the front, providing maximum traction through the front-wheel drive.Inside the cabin it’s ‘Mini Central’ with all the usual suspects - quirky controls and switches, and an oversize speedo dominating the central dashboard, a tradition harking back to the original Mini of the 1960s. There is a digital speedo incorporated in the tachometer and information display dead ahead of the driver behind the steering wheel. A neat touch is the inclusion of oval recesses in the roof liner creating extra headroom.As there are no back seats the Mini Coupe can carry a swag of cargo, 280 litres to be exact. It’s a handy shape so bulky sports gear and the like can it with ease. A unique two-piece cover keeps contents from prying eyes.The high-opening tailgate on the Mini we reviewed was heavy and hard to open, possibly a problem with the adjustment of the struts, but check for yourself when you do your personal road test. Short folks may find it hard to reach up and shut. Again, your call.SAFETYHigh body rigidity for optimum protection of occupants and pedestrians was of primary concern. Passenger safety extends to the cabin interior with front and head-thorax airbags, the latter integrated into the sides of the seat backrests. Naturally there are three-point inertia-reel seat belts including belt force limiters and belt tensioners.DRIVINGThe test vehicle was fitted with an optional six-speed Steptronic automatic transmission ($2350) which added a new dimension to the sporting nature of the Coupe. Gears were selected manually using the shift lever, or steering wheel-mounted paddles. The paddles weren’t as easy to use as in most others, but if it was our money we would go for the manual any day.Having said that, the auto produced a relaxed drive, even in stressful heavy traffic.In the automatic Mini JCW we tested fuel consumption was in the five to six litres per hundred kilometres range on the open road, but fanging the car around our interesting mountain route saw it leap to the nine to ten litre range.Much has been done to match engine performance with handling qualities. Agility of the sort found in a go-kart, was the catchword. There was no denying steering and stability were of the highest order for a car of this segment.The ride which was harsh and skittish on at times on uneven surfaces, to the extent it could upset some passengers. On smooth blacktop the minor discomforts were soon forgotten in the sheer joy of driving the new exotic Mini.Mini Cooper S CoupePrice: from $40,700Warranty: 3-yearsSafety rating: 5-star ANCAPEngine: 1.6-litre 4-cyl petrolTransmission: 6-speed manualBody: 3729mm (L); 1683mm (W); 1407mm (H)Weight: 1150kg 

The fast new Coupe won't be loved by everyone and doesn't care.German car-lovers have a strange affliction that contradicts national stereotypes: they like old British cars. I was in Germany for the Frankfurt motor show recently and confirmed the diagnosis.On the autobahn the only cars travelling under 120km/h were 1960s Triumphs. In fact, aside from an old Porsche 911 here or there, British cars were the only ones that didn't seem new.It's the fifth model in the Mini range since the hatch was reborn a decade ago, but it looks unlike any other. The flat roof has gone in favour of a skullcap which, thanks to a winglet on the trailing edge, could be a baseball cap on backwards. It's unusual and doesn't immediately inspire affection.Of course, the original spawned a bewildering variety of body styles, including a ute, the Moke and sedans. That has been the route map for the reborn car. The modern Clubman, for example, is based on the old Mini Traveller.However, there's no prior model for Coupe and the executives needed to employ some fancy historical footwork. They say it was inspired by British sports cars from the 1960s and 70s because it is the first Mini with only two seats and there's also a convertible version.But it couldn't look less like an old MG or Triumph. One of the biggest downsides to any Mini, including this one, is the lacklustre interior. Use of soft plastics is miserly; most are unyieldingly hard and unpleasant.The seats are good, but you'll lose fingers trying to find the adjusters. Aircon and radio controls are set too low and the absurd central speedo needs to be consigned to history. It's pointless.Headroom is respectable thanks to recesses in the roof and the car connects to the internet via an iPhone, making web radio possible. The boot -- it opens like a hatchback, despite the profile -- has a bit more cargo space than usual and there's some storage behind the seats.His design comes with engineering tweaks. The starting point is the Cabriolet, so it already has a reinforced body, but the Coupe is another 10-15 per cent stiffer on top. This, and an active rear spoiler that deploys from the boot at 80km/h, delighted the chassis engineers, who say it helped deliver better ride and handling than the standard car.Spec for spec, engines carry over and Australia will see the John Cooper Works driven at the event plus the 135kW Cooper S. Although the Coupe is 25kg heavier than other Minis, thanks to improved aerodynamics the JCW gets to 100km/h in 6.4 seconds: one-tenth better than the equivalent hatch. It's also fairly efficient, with a stop-at-idle system and electric power steering, among other features, helping it achieve 7.1 litres per 100km.On the road, the Coupe will feel familiar to Mini drivers, but sharper and tauter. It steers well, with good turn-in and only a hint of torque steer -- the tendency for power to twist the wheel in your hands -- despite putting 155kW through the front rubber. On autobahns its high-speed stability is good for something only 3.7m long.This engine sounds great on-song and responds with enthusiasm. It has the driver-pleasing trait of echoing throttle inputs in little movements of the chassis, so the engine and suspension feel as if they're working in harmony.There's a bit more roll through corners than expected but the Coupe isn't lacking body discipline. The ride is firm to crashy, and just on the right side of acceptable, although that was on smooth German bitumen.The drawbacks include engine drone at constant highway speeds, when the turbocharged unit sounds monotone and industrial. The tiny rear window means vision is restricted to a tiny portion of the road immediately behind or even less when the spoiler deploys. That means cars can seem to suddenly appear from nowhere.

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 latest cars to take the Mini moniker, the Coupe and Roadster, are the first purely two-seaters from the iconic British brand.Aimed to attract those who desire a two-seat sporting life, they come in Mini Cooper S and Mini John Cooper Works guise.Mini Cooper S is powered by a 1.6-litre four-cylinder motor with twin-scroll turbocharger putting out 135 kW of power at 5500 rpm and 240 m of torque between 1600 and 5000 rpm. An overboost function lifts torque to 260 Nm for a few seconds if you really need everything in acceleration.The John Cooper Works variants pump out a rip-roaring 155 kW at 6000 rpm and 260 Nm between 1850 and 5600 rpm. Overboost adds a further 20 Nm between 2000 and 5100 rpm for extreme-performance applications. The Mini John Cooper Works version only has a six-speed manual. It uses a clever self-adjusting clutch to ensure the correct pedal feel is maintained over the car’s full service life.The Mini Cooper S Coupe claims zero-to-100 km/h acceleration in 6.9 seconds in manual form (7.1 sec, auto), with combined urban/highway petrol consumption of 6.3 (6.7) litres per 100 kilometres. The equivalent manual Roadster comes up with 0-100 km/h in 7 seconds (7.2 sec, auto), while using 6.4 litres of fuel per 100 kilometres (6.8, auto) when measured to official standards The John Cooper Works does the zero-to-100 km/h sprint in 6.4 seconds for the Coupe and 6.5 in Roadster format.The dimensions of the Coupe – the two-seater measures 3734 mm (John Cooper Works Coupe 3758 mm) in length, 1683 mm in width and 1384 mm (John Cooper Works Coupe 1385 mm) in height (Roadster 1390 mm and JCW 1391 mm) with a wheelbase of 2467 mm.On sale now, prices range from $45,500 for the Mini Cooper S Roadster and $55,100 for the range-topping John Cooper Works variant, representing a premium of just $2510 and $2500 over the respective Coupes. On top of standard equipment featured on the Cooper S, JCW variants gain 17-inch Cross Spoke Challenge wheels, the John Cooper Works aerodynamic kit, sports suspension, sports stripes and a Harmon Kardon audio.Efficient aerodynamics see an active rear spoiler integrated for the first time into a Mini boot lid. It pops up automatically when the Coupe hits 80 km/h. At top speed the maker says the wing weighs in with 40 kg of extra downforce. Two rear seats are replaced in both the Mini Coupe and Roadster by a generous luggage shelf that incorporates a larger-than-normal through-shute from the 280-litre Coupe boot (240 litres, Roadster) which can take bulky long objects.The high-opening boot lid allows bulky items such as sporting gear and weekend-away luggage for two to be loaded easily. The quirky knobs, switches and instruments are straight out of the Mini bin, the centrally situated speedo dial dominating the dashboard with its side-plate size. The speed is duplicated by a digital readout viewed between the upper spokes of the steering wheel, so there is no need for the driver’s eyes to stray too far from the road ahead.Occupants are actively protected by anti-skid braking with electronic brake force distribution and dynamic stability control, while driver and passenger front airbags and side head and thorax airbags come into play in the event of a crash. Roadster travellers are also protected in the case of a vehicle flipping by polished stainless steel roll bars, which are padded at the front and incorporate a slot for the wind deflector.The wide stance, together with a stiff (some would say too stiff) sports suspension have the compact cars roller skating ‘round corners, the beautiful balance enhanced by positive steering with excellent feedback. There is some flexing in the Roadster on uneven surfaces and a plastic cargo cover in the back of the Coupe rattled annoyingly during our introductory test drives.All was forgiven when the engine, especially in the JCW cars, piped up with a Rod Stewart-style rasp under heavy acceleration. A visually striking feature of the Coupe is the sharply raked windscreen (13 degrees more than the Mini Hatch), the arc of which flows rearward forming a low roofline which terminates in an integrated rear spoiler.The Roadster’s cloth roof is light enough to be lowered using one hand by means of a handle above the windscreen. With the Roadster roof stowed between the cabin and boot there is no reduction in cargo space to that with the roof up. A standard wind deflector behind the occupants helps maintain a relatively quiet and relaxed atmosphere in the cabin. Ambient light only adds to the feel-good surroundings of the Roadster and its twin.The Mini Coupe cabin roof lining, in a felt material, in contrast to the rest of the surroundings, looks on the cheap side but incorporates oval recesses to increase headroom for the driver and passenger.The Mini Coupe and Roadster range is:Mini Cooper S CoupeMini Cooper S RoadsterMini John Cooper Works CoupeMini John Cooper Works Roadster

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.

The mini range of Minis is becoming a maxi range with the addition of its first two-seaters. When the new Mini was launched 10 years ago, it arrived as a hatch, followed shortly by a soft-top and that was it for body styles for several years.About 15 months ago a five-door Clubman wagon was added and last year a jacked-up, all-wheel-drive version, the Countryman, arrived. Now Mini has added a two-seater Coupe and Roadster with a Paceman (coupe version of the Countryman) coming next year and possibly a Clubvan (solid-sided Clubman) which is yet to be evaluated for Australia.Prices start at $42,990 for the six-speed manual Cooper S Coupe and $52,600 for the John Cooper Works Coupe. While the convertible version of the Hatch costs a premium of more than $8000, the rag-top variant of the Coupe is only an extra $2010 for the Cooper S and $2500 for the JCW making the Roadster an attractive option. Six-speed auto adds $2350 to the price, which is the same across the Mini fleet. The JCW only comes in manual. Mini Australia boss Kai Bruesewitz believes the new two-seater competes in a narrow class of vehicles with a wide range of prices, from the Honda CR-Z (from $34,990) to the Audi TT (from $70,400). Other competitors are the Peugeot RCZ (from $54,990), VW Eos ($49,990) and Mazda MX-5 (soft top $44,265, coupe $47,200). While this is unchartered territory for Mini, they believe about two-thirds of buyers will opt for the Coupe and about 10 per cent will want the JCW which is one of the highest rates in the world, says Bruesewitz.Given its sporty body shape, it makes sense that the Coupe and Roadster only arrive n Cooper S and JCW variants. The Cooper S comes with the turbo 1.6-litre with 135kW of power and a thirst of 6.3 litre per 100km, while the JCW has 155kW and 7.1L/100km. The chassis in both Coupe and Roadster are based on the stiffer and heavier Cabrio. While the Coupe weighs 1165kg which is a surprising 15kg more than the Hatch despite its lack of back seat and roof, the Roadster weighs an extra 20kg than the Coupe but is a surprisingly 45kg lighter than the Cabrio. Engineers have stiffened the springs on Coupe and Roadster and there is an even stiffer sports suspension available in the Cooper S to match the JCW. All the usual tech features of the Mini are available, but a glaring omission in a market obsessed with with phones is Bluetooth audio streaming. This is what the new variants are all about. They are a design exercise, with few technological changes from the Hatch and Cabrio. Designers specifically intended for the strange Coupe roof line to look like a backwards-facing baseball cap. It looks ridiculous from the side view, but works from the front and rear. The overhanging lip or cap peak also has a practical use, acting as a roof spoiler. There is also an auto boot spoiler on both models which deploys at 80km/h and retracts at 60km/h with a switch inside to manually deploy. Roadster has more appeal from all angles, accentuating Mini's first three-box silhouette. Apart from the obvious roofline, the new models feature a 13 per cent greater raked windscreen. Dimensions are roughly the same as the Hatch, but it sits slightly lower. Inside is standard Mini fare, although the rear seat is gone and there is a small storage area for a couple of shopping bags or briefcase. The big surprise is the cargo area which has more room than the Hatch, while the soft top, which can be manually deployed in about half the time of electric roofs, does not steal precious boot space. The boot is also wide for easy luggage access.The Coupe's roof has been scalloped out so this will suit the tallest of drivers. Product and pricing manager Sue McCarthy says the usual interminable array of Mini options and accessories are available for customisation.There are four airbags and all the usual passive and active safety features of the other Mini models. While they have not yet been crash tested here or in Europe, the Mini Cooper has a maximum five-star rating. Roadster gets two permanent but stylish chromed rollover bars. Rear vision in the Coupe is scant and worse in the Roadster. The boot spoiler only makes matters worse.As expected, it handles like a go-kart, torque-steers like a banshee and the suspension crashes through harsh surfaces. However, the suspension adjustments for the heavier chassis have livened up the steering so there is less understeer and even sharper turn-in. On the down side, ride is further compromised and the car tended to skip sideways over high-speed bumps such as corrugations in corners.On the national launch through the Yarra Valley, both cars were an exciting drive, but after a couple of hours of hitting the bump stops over some of the more gnarly sections of road, my neck and head began to ache. It also didn't help that the cabin is quite noisy, probably because of the lack of sound dampening with the absent rear seat. We also found the flimsy parcel shelf developed an annoying rattle and the rag top vibrated against the metal ribs. Mini's famous "look at me" value is increased, especially in the radical Coupe. People stop, stare, point, but mostly smile and wave. 

Mini's compact SUV model Countryman is the biggest Mini yet - about 20 per cent bigger all over than the Clubman wagon and three door hatch. Pricing starts from $37,700 for the front wheel drive, manual, Cooper variant.It is a five door (the first for Mini), four or five seater available with front wheel drive or on-demand all-wheel drive (ALL4) and in Cooper and Cooper S trim.The former runs a naturally aspirated 1.6-litre, direct injection, four cylinder petrol engine with 90kW/160Nm output and the latter, a turbo version of the same with 135kW/280Nm output. You can have the Cooper S and diesel Countryman in front or all wheel drive. There's a choice of six-speed manual or six-speed automatic - a conventional torque converter self-shifter. Countryman has impressive "Minimalism" green credentials and is made in the UK when it has sold out in the few months since arriving at dealers.Mini says it's getting plenty of come back sales from earlier Mini buyers who have "grown up" and now need a more practical, family-oriented vehicle. The Countryman isn't as much of an SUV as other makes riding only slightly higher than a car and with a semi-command seating position.The all wheel drive model does have some off road cred' as it copes easily with beach and dirt road driving. But there's no 4x4 lock up to ensure drive to both axles. You must rely on the car's electronics to decide what is the optimum set-up for any given situation - hmmmm.The front wheel drive model is for the road only but enjoys better fuel economy and sharper performance than its all wheel drive stablemate. Countryman has plenty of clever features including a centre accessory rail to which you can fit a range of goodies like a phone bracket and food containers.Fuel economy for the non-turbo 1.6-litre engine is as good as 6.5-litres/100km while the turbo petrol front wheel drive manual is good for 6.6. The ALL4 Cooper S turbo Countryman is 7.3. It will also come as a diesel 1.6-litre (2.0-litre for auto) in the not too distant future that should rate an impressive 4.4-litres/100km, bit more for the auto. The rear seats fold to form a large load space. Interior styling is outstanding and centres on a large centrally mounted speedo /trip computer dial. It has easy to locate and operate ancillary switches including toggle levers from the past. The handbrake is a new design and arguably better than anything else on the market. Room is sufficient even for rear seat passengers and ample load space is provided for a coupe of suitcases. The outside is unmistakably Mini but boofy Mini with larger head and tail lights, a bulging bonnet and black plastic wheel arch flares. The overall effect is pleasing and indefinably Mini. Drive feel in the 1400kg Cooper S ALL4 is impressive offering strong performance from idle through to engine redline. It has plenty of kick to liven you up and impressive grip to go with it. It doesn't behave like an SUV on winding roads and feels like a luxury hatch on the freeway and around town. Mini could have hit on the perfect compromise for an all rounder in Countryman. The higher end models are a bit pricey but Mini has always been pitched as a premium product with all that entails - style, features, finish, look and performance. We'd have one in our garage for sure but as good as the Cooper S is, would really like to try the diesel particularly given it's incredible fuel economy.

Rain is sluicing across the road and the roof as the Mini Cooper S Coupe snorts its way up the mountain. The turbo 1.6-litre engine is appreciating the cold, dense air and the suspension and tyres are clinging tighter than the moss that’s made its home on the edge of the road.Welcome to the Mini Cooper S Coupe, the brand’s sexiest styling effort yet and a car which at $43,000 is as quick and surefooted a vehicle as you can hope for this side of an all-wheel drive Subaru WRX.VALUEEurope will offer four variants of the helmet-headed Mini Coupe but in Australia we’re only getting the good stuff. That means the Cooper S will start proceedings at $42,990 when it goes on sale in late February, with the John Cooper Works version another $8000-$9000 above that (BMW won’t announce the JCW price until closer to launch).The money buys a great-looking two-seater with a huge boot - 280 litres - along with 16-inch alloys, airconditioning and reverse parking sensors.TECHNOLOGYThe Mini Coupe doesn’t break new ground, it just covers it quicker than any Mini before it.Brake energy regeneration helps drive the ancillaries, which kick in only when needed and there’s an auto stop/start system, shift display and low rolling resistance tyres.The smarts are in the way this car has been set up to sit on the road, irrespective of the conditions or speed.A rear spoiler pops up at 80km/h and folds back when speeds drop below 60km/h. It’s there to aid the aerodynamics but there’s a switch if you insist on having it up when cruising past the shops.STYLINGCoupe designer Anders Warming said at the international launch of the car that the look was intended to mirror a ``backwards baseball cap''. Every iPod-enabled teenage rapper now wears their cap at some obscure angle other than front-on and are generally ignored for it.Not so the Coupe. People in passing cars and pedestrians stare when this Mini rolls past. Inside is the standard Mini switchgear - a huge central speedo with displays on the bottom for stereo position.Chrome toggle switches control the likes of the interior lights and windows. It’s based on the “three box” structure - engine, passenger cell and boot - common on most cars but new to this former British brand.SAFETYThe Coupe hasn’t been crashed in the lab yet, but its siblings have earned a five-star rating and the extra work in the chassis should ensure this car is also a top performer. A “tyre defect” indicator warns if the run-flat rubber has a problem. There are only four airbags, but with no back seat passengers, there’s no need for more. DRIVINGThe only car that comes close to the Mini for chassis and suspension balance is the Audi TT - and it costs another $20,000. The on-paper figures of 135kW and 260Nm are backed by an official 0-100km/h time of 6.9 seconds, but those numbers don’t do justice to how well this car goes around corners.It’s more a case of how hard do you dare to go - and on wet roads, that’s amazingly hard. The ventilated brakes bleed speed faster than tossing out an anchor and it is as close as a road-going car can come to go-kart performance.The suspension is biased to ride rather than comfort but is still not horrible on city streets and it’s a trade-off I’d happily accept for its ability to make your smile on tight roads. The front and back screens are intentionally small  to focus attention on the road ahead and the vehicle’s you’ve just passed.VERDICTI take my cap off to the Mini Coupe - this helmet-headed car is a masochist’s dream. The nastier the road and the harder you flog it, the better it responds. The two-seat layout is offset by a respectable luggage area and the build quality is up there with cars that cost a lot more.And then there’s the ability to personalise it so no one mistakes your car from what will be an ever-expanding Coupe pack.Mini Cooper S CoupePrice: $42,990Warranty: Three years/100,000kmResale: (no previous model)Service Intervals: Determined by driving conditionsEngine: 1.6-litre four-cylinder turbo, 135kW/240NmBody: Three-door coupeTransmission: Six-speed manual, front-wheel driveThirst: 6.3 litres/100km, 146g/km CO2Dimensions: 3734mm (L), 1683mm (W), 1384mm (H), 2467mm (WB) 1459mm/1467mm tracks front/rearSuspension: MacPherson strut front, multi-link rearBrakes: 294mm vented front discs, 259mm vented rear discs

How many variations on the Mini theme can you get? Now, there's a five-door SUV model called the Countryman - in various permutations.We got hold of the Cooper S variant with front wheel drive (also available with all wheel drive) and have been enjoying the drive time especially given it runs a 1.6-litre turbo petrol engine with 135kW/240-260Nm output.It makes the compact Countryman pay attention when you push the throttle that's for sure.Being front wheel drive excludes this particular car from any sort of offroad driving and means chains for the snow.But on the other side of the coin, it uses less fuel and accelerates faster than the 4x4 model.We have regularly seen 7.0-litres/100km fuel economy in mixed driving from the cheeky little box.The engine is from BMW and features a twin scroll turbo for optimum efficiency as well as direct fuel injection and variable valve operation. The same engines arrive in BMW's revised 1-Series in a couple of months.Our Countryman has a six speed manual (also available with a six speed auto) and a decidedly sporty nature, especially when accelerating thanks to the turbo. Whoosh and you're off.DRIVINGHandling and ride is on the sporty side and you can actually punt the Countryman nearly as hard as the Mini three door hatch.  But it's considerably bigger in every measurement and is over 4.0-metres long. That means plenty of space inside for four or five depending on chosen seating configuration.Ours has the schmicko centre rail with extra storage and arm rests but loses the middle rear seat.Equipment levels are generous for the $47,500 asking price and we'd definitely go for the lurid exterior striping and variable ambient lighting package inside. We'd also go for the auto.Countryman Cooper S is an interesting little beast that occupies a particular prestige niche that no other maker plays in - yet.Mini Cooper CountrymanPrice: from $37,700.Engine: 1.6-litre naturally-aspirated petrol, turbocharged petrol and turbodiesel four-cylinder.Transmission: six-speed manual or automatic, front or all-wheel drive.Thirst: 4.4 (Cooper D) - 8.1 (Cooper S ALL4) l/100km.