Questions?
0116 259 9548
BVRLA Member
No Administration Fees
Free Nationwide Delivery
._1662623677.webp)
It's big enough to contend with the Audi A1, Seat Ibiza, and Volkswagen Polo, and it's available in a wide range of customisation levels so you may personalise it to your preferences. But how does the Mini compare to its rivals?
The entry-level Mini One is powered by a 101bhp 1.5-litre three-cylinder petrol engine that must be worked hard, which can be exhausting on longer trips. The Cooper receives a 134bhp version of that engine and is our favourite of the bunch. It cuts the 0-62mph time from 10.3 seconds to 8.2 seconds (or 8.1 seconds with the automatic gearbox) and pulls strongly throughout the rev range.
The Cooper S's 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, which produces 176 horsepower and has a sporty-sounding exhaust note, offers extremely excellent performance, but it also drives up the price significantly, and its best 0-62 mph time of 6.6 seconds isn't nearly as quick as the Ford Fiesta ST's. The 228bhp John Cooper Works (JCW) Mini is the fastest, but it can't compete with the performance overall of the best hot hatches. The Toyota GR Yaris is not much more expensive, but it is much faster.
Over typical British twisty roads, every Mini rides very solidly. Fortunately, thoughtful damping prevents the car from feeling like a pogo stick. In reality, the only time it becomes uncomfortable is when you pass over a particularly nasty pothole or when you speed over mid-corner bumps.
The Mini's comfortable and widely adjustable driver's seat comes as standard. However, several of the controls can be difficult to use, particularly the lever that adjusts the backrest's spring-loaded angle. Shorter drivers could find it difficult to move the seat forward sufficiently to fully lower the clutch without discomfort. Adjustable lumbar support is not available with the base Classic trim, but it is an optional seat upgrade on Sport models and is a standard feature on Exclusive and JCW versions.
The Mini comes equipped with Bluetooth, a DAB radio, two USB connections, and an 8.8-inch colour screen as standard. In addition to a rotary dial and shortcut buttons located in front of the gear lever, the screen may also be operated by touch. Although the touchscreen is useful when you're stationary, using the dial when moving is simpler and less obtrusive. This is something that its competitors don't offer.
The interior of the Mini upholds its premium image with ample soft-touch plastics on the dashboard and substantial-feeling knobs and switches. In addition to looking excellent, it offers several unique features, like comprehensive ambient lighting on Sport trim or higher that you can customise to provide nearly any colour in the rainbow.
Because the front seats go back so far, the Mini provides the largest front leg room of any luxury small car. Although the Volkswagen Polo and the Honda Jazz have higher headroom, there is still enough here for the majority of drivers to feel comfortable. Unfortunately, there aren't many useful cubbies; the door pockets are very small, and the glovebox is shallow but square. However, there is a spot beneath the USB and charging ports where your phone may rest without moving while you're driving, and there are two sizable cupholders in front of the gear lever.
The three-door Mini bench can only fit a maximum of two people and has less back head and legroom than the Audi A1. They will be more comfortable as a result (assuming they are pretty short) because each of them has more shoulder room. They will find the entrance to be a little difficult, though, as they must duck under the low roof and past front seats that, then leaned forward, leave a smaller access gap than in some three-door competitors.
The Mini's boot isn't as large as that of the Ford Fiesta, Seat Ibiza, or Skoda Fabia, but it's still large enough for a big weekly shop. It's square, so you won't have to lift items off the floor too far to get them over the load lip.
The Mini 3dr is a highly coveted compact vehicle that has a lot of substance to go along with its good looks. To make the most of the Mini's greatest asset, it's well-appointed inside, we'd suggest a nimble yet economical Cooper in Exclusive specification. However, if utility is high on your list of essentials, we'd choose the even more remarkable Audi A1.
At MWVC, we provide a range of Mini Hatchback car leasing offers to suit every driver's requirements for finding the ideal vehicle for themselves or their business. So, whether you're looking to lease a car for business use or personal use, our knowledgeable sales team can assist you in finding the greatest price. Still not sure if a prestige car lease is the best option for you? One of our representatives will be pleased to assist you if you call 0116 490 4113.
Still not sure which vehicle is right for you? We have lots of car, van and pickup reviews to help you. Why not read our Fiat Fiorino Cargo review?
Follow us on Instagram to stay up to date with all our latest offers.
*All pricing is correct at the time of publishing
