The latest model uses a contemporary evolution of the classic MINI design, with improved features and higher quality. It also offers more passenger space thanks to dimensions that are 98mm longer, 44mm wider and 7mm taller than its predecessor. The wheelbase has been extended by 28mm, while the track width has been enlarged at the front by 42mm and at the rear by 34mm.  

Boot volume has been increased by more than 30% to 211 litres whilst there’s also an optional storage package with a luggage compartment floor that can be locked into place at various points and a tilting rear seat backrest.

Despite the increase in size, the latest hatch has the classic MINI proportions with new interpretations of traditional cues such as the hexagonal contour of the radiator grille, circular headlights, “side scuttle” indicator surrounds, upright rear light clusters and black lower body edging.

Inside the cabin, there’s new connectivity technology with a new central LED display.

The engine line-up sees the addition of three new Euro 6-compliant engines, each featuring MINI TwinPower Turbo Technology to offer improved performance figures while fuel consumption and emission levels have been reduced by as much as 27%.

The new MINI Cooper Hatch has a 134bhp three-cylinder petrol engine whilst the new MINI Cooper S Hatch gains a 189hhp four-cylinder petrol engine. The new MINI Cooper D Hatch comes with a three-cylinder diesel engine with an output of 114bhp and an official average combined economy of 80.7mpg. This same unit is used in a milder form for the MINI One D, which now offers fuel consumption of 83mpg and CO2 emissions from 89gkm (rising to 92g/km with larger wheels).

Three new transmissions are also offered and include a six-speed manual transmission as standard. Meanwhile a new six-speed automatic transmission is available as an option and offers efficiency improvements against the outgoing model. For example, the outgoing MINI Cooper D Automatic Hatch produces 135g/km CO2 with the new MINI Cooper D Hatch producing 98g/km CO2, a reduction of 38% against the outgoing model.

There’s also a new six-speed sports automatic transmission that offers shorter shift times, features rev matching on downward shifts and comes with shift paddles.

The new MINI also features increased standard specification including electrically adjustable exterior mirrors, air-conditioning, front fog lamps, onboard computer, MINI Radio including aux-in, USB interface and Bluetooth.

Other features available include Intelligent Emergency Calling (E-call) – marking a first in the premium compact car segment – whilst there’s also an optional MINI Head-Up-Display and the Driving Assistant, which takes the form of a camera-based cruise control and distance control function that automatically maintains a predetermined distance from the vehicle ahead and includes a collision and pedestrian warning system with initial brake function, road sign detection and high-beam assistant.

Drivers can also opt for MINI Driving Modes, providing the option to switch between “MID, “SPORT” and “GREEN” driving modes using a rotary switch at the base of the gearstick or selector lever.

Prices start at £13,750 for the new MINI One hatch – a 2.61% increase over the old model – and rise to £18,650 for the MINI Cooper S hatch.