MINI Hatchback 1.5 Cooper Hatchback 5d Owner Review

Mine's a company car, and wasn't my first choice! It's certainly well-built, and has the "Mini" cool-Britannia feel about it, but it has a few niggles. The upright windscreen collects more dead bugs than others, the roofline is obstructive for taller drivers (traffic lights for instance), the front door opening is small and awkward for taller drivers, and the suspension/seats are so hard it becomes downright uncomfortable for long journeys. But - on the flip side - the diesel engine is punchy and economical, interior space is reasonable, interior design is a curious blend of 60's classic Mini tradition in a new-age setting, visibility is great, and the handling is pinpoint sharp. To be blunt, for extensive distance driving, this is not your car. But for everyday trips with a small family, and the occasional long-distance jaunt, this car is absolutely ideal. Its style and character means it is easy to forgive the flaws, and then you start genuinely enjoying the car for what it is... a genuinely competent and fun little runabout. If every other car on the road can be alikened to a Labrador, this car is a Jack Russell... lovable but with a slightly crazy streak..!