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.

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.

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