The new special edition MINI 1449 GT

The latest special edition to join the MINI U.K. lineup celebrates the brand's rich heritage with a nod to one of the best known sporty classic Minis of all time, the 1275 GT.

The 1499 GT recalls the entertaining drive, distinctive styling and low running costs of the 1969 original, which was one of the most affordable performance cars of its day. The 1275 GT badging reflected the increased engine capacity over the standard 998cc Mini. The all new MINI 1499 GT treads a similar path for 2017. With 102bhp on tap and 0-100km/h in 10.1 seconds courtesy of its lively Twin Power Turbo three-cylinder engine, the 1499 GT is perfect for drivers seeking an entertaining drive and unique vehicle.

There will be a choice of two colours, Pepper White or Midnight Black. In Midnight Black, the car gets distinctive gold 1499 GT side stripes. Pepper White models feature the same distinctive graphics, but in black. Additional exterior features include the MINI John Cooper Works (JCW) Sport Pack, featuring 17-inch Track Spoke alloy wheels in Black, dark tinted windows and white indicator lenses. The styling pack includes distinctive JCW front and rear bumpers, side skirts, a split level spoiler and JCW door entry plates.

Interior features include JCW sports seats in Dinamica and leather and JCW badges, a JCW steering wheel in perforated leather with Chilli Red stitching and multi-function controls, cruise control, a Visual Boost radio with MINI Connected smartphone compatibility and Piano Black interior trim, along with Carbon Black interior details and an Anthracite headlining.

A sports suspension completes the MINI 1499 GT package, which also includes all of the standard equipment found on the MINI One Hatch. This includes features such as independent rear suspension, a six-speed manual gearbox with sports car-inspired rev matching technology, air conditioning and all-round disc brakes.

The 1499 GT will be built in a limited production run of just 1,499 cars between November 2017 and February 2018.