MINI Hatchback (01-06) - Review

Review by Dan Harrison on
Few cars are as well suited to urban life as the MINI. Its retro looks have proved to be more than just a passing fashion fad, it's compact, easy - as well as exciting - to drive and affordable to run. And that's why you'll see one on nearly every street in the country. Such is MINI's appeal that even early - and tatty - examples fetch surprisingly high prices, although those with choice options fetch the best money.
4 out of 5

Other MINI reviews

3 out of 5

Running costs

MINI isn't a cheap car to run for its size, but if you see it as a mini-BMW, then it is. Depreciation has been slight (especially if it's fitted with a few choice options - see 'Buying Used'), which is Fuel consumption isn't brilliant and insurance is expensive. The service package is exceptional and there's no reason not to opt for it. Originally £100 bought five years servicing. From January 2005, this was offered for £150. There's also an 'xl' package which is eight years servicing for £450.

* based on most recent data

Estimated fuel cost for 10,000 miles per year

Unleaded

£1,427 - £1,705 *

Diesel

£1,105 - £1,105 *

The estimated fuel cost figure is a guide to how much this model will cost to fuel each year, so you can compare between cars. It's calculated by using the model's average mpg (calculated from both town centre and motorway driving) and the average fuel price. It's based on the following cost-per-litre: petrol 135p and diesel 141p. Prices are updated daily.

Summary Running Costs

Servicing period

Between 10-12,500 miles.

Warranty

Mechanical three years, bodywork six years

Road tax (12 months)

£100.00 - £250.00

Vehicle excise duty (VED) varies according to the CO2 emissions and the fuel type of the vehicle. For cars registered after March 1st 2001 VED or road tax is based on the car's CO2 emissions. For cars registered before March 1st 2001 it is based on engine size.

Full running costs data

3.5 out of 5

Green credentials

  • A
  • B
  • C
  • D
    129
  • E
  • F
  • G
  • H
  • I
  • J
    187
  • K
  • L
  • M

CO2 emission figure (g/km)

Fuel economy rating

The arrows indicate the best and worst CO2 bands for this model.

Emissions summary

Hatchback is an environmentally friendly choice for green buyers. With an average of 166 g/km CO2 across the line-up, its emissions are quite low for a super mini hatchback. Eco-conscious buyers should consider the 1.4-litre diesel, which is one of the greenest models in the range. The range is also fairly economical, averaging 43 mpg.

Find the exact engine and CO2