The low driving position can make gauging your speed a little difficult and you really feel every bump on an uneven surface. The dashboard is nicely finished with chrome detailing, on later versions, and vision is generally good due to the thin windscreen pillars.

Space is not a virtue in the Mini and long trips can be a little cramped, especially in the rear, so don’t expect to have masses of room; it’s not called a Mini for nothing. Definitely unsuitable for motorways, the whiny gearbox and bumpy ride is a little irritating over time, so pack an extra cushion if you do brave any particularly lengthy excursions; that’s if you can fit your luggage in it’s tiny boot of course.