New Mini Cooper India review, test drive

Interiors

On the inside, the new Mini retains the same retro styling theme as before, but it has been improved. The fit and finish seem better and material quality is improved too. The big centre dial, however, doesn't house the speedo with its 'floating' needle anymore. This is a bit of a shame, as that added a lot of character. It was a bit impractical to look at, but what the hell! Unfortunately, the large high-res 8.8-inch central screen is not part of standard kit. In fact, very little is. You’ll have to pay through your nose for everything from the iDrive style infotainment system and sunroof to even basics as audio buttons on the steering wheel and leather upholstery on the seats. Speaking of which, the seats are sporty and well bolstered, if perhaps a bit excessively so for ‘healthier’ occupants. But there’ s more space in the cabin than before, most noticeable in the back. Getting into the back seat isn't easy but even medium sized passengers will be reasonably comfortable once in, but only for short drives.  

What is it like to drive?

The new three cylinder diesel in the Cooper is a bit vocal at start-up, with a thrum emanating from the engine as you fire it. However, these qualities are quickly replaced by a more satisfying engine note as the revs rise. Go further up the power-band, and the engine smoothens up beautifully and pulls all the way to the redline in a single sweep. Despite having only 114bhp, it pulls well too. There's adequate power and torque, and performance is decent. 0-100 comes up in 9.90 seconds, and there's enough grunt for the car to accelerate past 180kph quite easily. Even the six-speed automatic gearbox feels good, though it doesn’t quite operate with the seamlessness of a dual clutch system.

Tick the option for ‘Driving Mode’ at the time of speccing your Mini, and you’ll get further control over engine and gearbox responses, and weight to the steering. From Green to Mid to Sport mode, the Mini will change character and go from being a relaxed hatchback to something a whole lot sharper. There's also a ‘driving excitement’ analyser that tells you just how well you are using the steering, brakes and accelerator.