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

4 out of 5

Safety

Gets a four-star Euro NCAP rating, which is very good for a design of this size and age. In addition every MINI gets 'intelligent' driver and passenger airbags that react according to the severity of an impact, ABS on all models, optional run-flat tyres, plus strong locks, remote central locking and excellent security.

NCAP Test

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Provides motoring consumers with a realistic and independent assessment of the safety performance of some of the most popular cars sold in Europe.

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  • Adult Occupant Rating

    4 out of 5

  • Pedestrian Test Rating

    1 out of 5
3.5 out of 5

Reliability

Reliable build, provided it's well looked after and serviced. Initial trim and electrical gremlins have been ironed out. Run-flat tyres are a useful option.

Car check problem points

Body

Watch out for paintwork as there have been some problems with its durability. Also watch out for discolouring of the plastic wheel arches.

Engine/Gearbox

Initial gremlins saw engines and gearboxes replaced in early cars. Shouldn't be a problem now.

Other

Faulty audio equipment can drain battery, rattling trim. Early models suffered more problems particularly with trim and electrics, but most issues have been resolved.

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