MINI Hatchback running costs and mpg

• Overall, it’s a frugal line-up
• Even sporty models are fairly efficient
• Discontinued diesels very economical

The fuel efficiency champion in the range used to be the 1.2-litre One D three-door, which had a claimed average of 83.1mpg. But these figures are achieved in lab conditions, and you’d do well to manage the same in real-world driving. Plus, you can only get hold of a diesel in a used MINI Hatch now. The other previous diesel variants were economical, too, with the 1.5-litre Cooper D returning up to a claimed 72.4mpg and the Cooper SD 70.6mpg.

The petrols aren’t bad, though. The One is capable of up to 49.6mpg on the WLTP test cycle, while the more powerful Cooper achieves up to 48.7mpg. Go for one of the more performance models, and you’ll still be able to see over 40mpg if you’re not too excitable in your driving style – the Cooper S returns a claimed maximum of 43.5mpg on average, while the JCW claims 40.4mpg.

The MINI is especially notable for its strong residual values, holding on to a good chunk of its original value thanks to high desirability. Servicing costs are taken into account by the TLC pack, which covers three years and 36,000 miles' worth of servicing for one initial cost. The package stays with the car, too, so if you buy a used example with this option ticked then you could save some extra money.  

The greenest MINI Hatch used to be the 1.2-litre One D three-door (no longer available), which had claimed CO2 emissions of just 99g/km. Petrols are more polluting, but not by much, with the One emitting 109-123g/km depending on options and transmission.

Enlarge0videoEnlarge242photo

The Cooper is similar and the Cooper S ranges from 120-147g/km. Generally, there’s one or two g/km difference between three- and five-door models, but things like different alloy wheel sizes can have an impact on how much CO2 is emitted. If in doubt, consult the technical sections of any MINI price list to find more exact and current figures. Even the most polluting John Cooper Works emits a maximum of 162g/km, which isn’t too bad when you consider the performance that’s on offer.

Switching the optional driving mode selector to Green in automatic models allows the engine to be decouple from the transmission in some situations, which can save fuel and reduce emissions. It’ll also do this in Mid mode, too, while stop-start is standard on all models. 

Is it reliable?

• Strong reliability record for the MINI
• Little to be concerned about
• BMW-derived parts solid and dependable

Since it was launched, the MINI hasn’t been recalled by the DVSA – so there aren’t any big problems to be concerned about. BMW-derived parts are solid and dependable, and the MINI uses tried-and-tested components from across the range. The quality of the materials used to finish the interior mean it should remain free from rattles and squeaks well into its life; unlike past generations, the sensation now is very much of being in a small BMW than a larger MINI.