THE MINI Minimalist is the most economical petrol engined model in the range and has CO2 emissions of just 119g/km, six per cent lower than the One.
It should do about 55 miles per gallon according to the company and is fitted with a number of fuel saving devices including stop/start, energy regeneration under braking and a gear change indicator.
The most economical MINI is still the diesel with emissions down to 104g/km and average fuel consumption over 70mpg but it’s much more expensive.
So the Minimalist makes a lot of sense and the economy has been gained with no loss of performance.
Power comes from MINI’s new, British-built 1.6 engine, which replaces the 1.4 in non-Cooper models.
On the road, it is not quite as willing as the One but most people would not notice any difference.
It comes with a six speed manual gearbox and without trying too hard it’s easy to return good mpg.
Like all MINIs it has spot on handling and a decent ride, as well as those funky looks inside and outside.
Interior
Here everything is as it should be with great seats, lots of kit and plenty to catch the eye.
But with a six footer driving, there is little legroom behind, making it a three seater.
As usual with MINI, most buyers will probably add extra kit from the massive list available.
FAST FACTS
MINI Minimalist
Price: £12,950
Mechanical: 97bhp, 1,598cc, 4cyl petrol engine driving front wheels via 6-speed manual gearbox
Max speed: 115mph
0-62mph: 10.5 seconds
Combined mpg: 55
Insurance group: N/A
CO2 emissions: 119g/km
BIK rating: 15%
Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000 miles
Marks: 10/10
Main rival: VW Polo