£11,595
What’s new
Our first drive of the facelifted and slightly bug-eyed supermini in 1.6 petrol form.
Excellent
The 100PS 1.6 16V engine is a sharp performer and genuinely fun to drive. Steering is usual Ford-sharp and handling excellent. The combination makes zipping about through traffic a joy.
Good
Exterior facelift works and gives previously bland small car some much-needed character. Interior quality decent for segment too. Sound from CD player. Rear space – head and leg.
Average
The 154g/km CO2 rating (17% BIK tax band) is not fabulous for the class – even for a petrol version. £11,595 list price quite high.
Poor
Not much – but a shame £200 ‘Visibility pack’ with ‘quickclear’ heated windscreen and power/heated door mirrors is not standard.
Verdict
From a driver’s perspective (and a fleet manager’s on RVs) – you’ll have bigger smiles on your faces choosing the £800-more Mini Cooper over three years.
