Since BMW launched the new generation of MINIs in 2001, there have been mixed feelings amongst MINI fans and loyal followers alike. Being almost twice as big as the original Mini simply meant that the car was no longer… mini.
But it seems that 13 years on, cars from the English marque are getting stronger than ever, with a growing lineup that's increasingly refined and refreshing. And the latest F56 MINI Cooper is no exception.
This is certainly not down to chance. Based on the new modular architecture - dubbed the UKL platform - that was developed by BMW, the F56 is now bigger and more comfortable than any of its predecessors. This said platform will also be utilised on the upcoming five-door MINI as well as the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer and the X1.
Up close and Personal
While the MINI Cooper has always been a car that's best suited for the fairer sex, you'll be proud to be seen in this new model. The car hits the spot between matured and masculine without losing its appeal for classic love.
The MINI, despite its newfound size of 3,821mm x 1,727mm x 1,414mm (L x W x H), has a styling that is instantly recognisable. It may be subjective to individual palate but to our eyes, it's hard to think of any other cars that look better than the MINI in this segment.
But it seems that 13 years on, cars from the English marque are getting stronger than ever, with a growing lineup that's increasingly refined and refreshing. And the latest F56 MINI Cooper is no exception.
This is certainly not down to chance. Based on the new modular architecture - dubbed the UKL platform - that was developed by BMW, the F56 is now bigger and more comfortable than any of its predecessors. This said platform will also be utilised on the upcoming five-door MINI as well as the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer and the X1.
Up close and Personal
While the MINI Cooper has always been a car that's best suited for the fairer sex, you'll be proud to be seen in this new model. The car hits the spot between matured and masculine without losing its appeal for classic love.
The MINI, despite its newfound size of 3,821mm x 1,727mm x 1,414mm (L x W x H), has a styling that is instantly recognisable. It may be subjective to individual palate but to our eyes, it's hard to think of any other cars that look better than the MINI in this segment.
With its current dimensions, the MINI Cooper is 98mm longer, 44mm wider and 7mm taller than its predecessor. But it isn't, by any means, huge. In fact, the MINI here is smaller than both the Audi A1 as well as the Volkswagen Polo.
The extra length, coupled with an increased wheelbase, does mean you could get a couple of kids in the back seat. Four adults could fit in this too but preferably over shorter hauls. More notably, the car has a bigger space to boot, with a proper size of 211 litres - an increase of 51 litres over the previous model.
That's not the only treat. The cabin's funky form isn't all for mere aesthetics. With a good eye towards function, ergonomics are now more agreeable and applicable, thanks to the sensible location of the electric window switches and door lock toggles that are now on the door console. The central speedometer has also been shifted to the steering column.
The MINI also sports a user-friendly central system that controls the infotainment system. And just like the BMW iDrive, it has all the convenient features and connectivity you need.
The extra length, coupled with an increased wheelbase, does mean you could get a couple of kids in the back seat. Four adults could fit in this too but preferably over shorter hauls. More notably, the car has a bigger space to boot, with a proper size of 211 litres - an increase of 51 litres over the previous model.
That's not the only treat. The cabin's funky form isn't all for mere aesthetics. With a good eye towards function, ergonomics are now more agreeable and applicable, thanks to the sensible location of the electric window switches and door lock toggles that are now on the door console. The central speedometer has also been shifted to the steering column.
The MINI also sports a user-friendly central system that controls the infotainment system. And just like the BMW iDrive, it has all the convenient features and connectivity you need.
The Drive
Getting away from the petrol-driven Cooper means lesser horses are produced by the three-cylinder 1.5-litre powerplant. But with 270Nm of torque on tap, the Cooper D is no less fun to pilot.
On busy streets of Bangkok and open highways of Hua Hin, the diesel darling is an absolute delight, allowing us to zip in and out of traffic without breaking a sweat. Best of all, the Cooper D does so without the slightest hint of it being a diesel-powered hatchback.
But the enchanting thing about the Cooper D isn't about its numbers. It's about its playful personality and charismatic character that make it such a compelling package.
On stretching switchbacks along the picturesque Hua Hin where we took the opportunity to push the car hard, the hatch presented ample agility, with slight understeer being the only lament. And when that happens, you could still easily adjust the line by slightly releasing the throttle and steering it towards the bend.
Getting away from the petrol-driven Cooper means lesser horses are produced by the three-cylinder 1.5-litre powerplant. But with 270Nm of torque on tap, the Cooper D is no less fun to pilot.
On busy streets of Bangkok and open highways of Hua Hin, the diesel darling is an absolute delight, allowing us to zip in and out of traffic without breaking a sweat. Best of all, the Cooper D does so without the slightest hint of it being a diesel-powered hatchback.
But the enchanting thing about the Cooper D isn't about its numbers. It's about its playful personality and charismatic character that make it such a compelling package.
On stretching switchbacks along the picturesque Hua Hin where we took the opportunity to push the car hard, the hatch presented ample agility, with slight understeer being the only lament. And when that happens, you could still easily adjust the line by slightly releasing the throttle and steering it towards the bend.
Around town, where broken roads are aplenty, the excellent suspension setup completes the Cooper D. It rides comfortably and contentedly without sending all the unnecessary vibrations and thuds to the cabin.
Conclusion
Despite our heavy right foot, we managed the best of 17.8km/L over the span of two days. So perhaps if speed and bragging rights are what you're looking for in a MINI, then the Cooper S would be the perfect choice for you (until the JCW comes zooming into Singapore).
But if fun, individuality and cost-effective are your main concerns, the Cooper D should be right up your alley.
It remains to be unknown whether or not Eurokars Habitat, authorised distributor of MINI in Singapore, will be bringing this delightful diesel. But when it does, we suggest you have this on your To-Buy list.
Conclusion
Despite our heavy right foot, we managed the best of 17.8km/L over the span of two days. So perhaps if speed and bragging rights are what you're looking for in a MINI, then the Cooper S would be the perfect choice for you (until the JCW comes zooming into Singapore).
But if fun, individuality and cost-effective are your main concerns, the Cooper D should be right up your alley.
It remains to be unknown whether or not Eurokars Habitat, authorised distributor of MINI in Singapore, will be bringing this delightful diesel. But when it does, we suggest you have this on your To-Buy list.
