MINI is trying to get One over its rivals! This new and revamped entry level diesel One D is better looking and easy on the pocket. Is that going to be enough when it has the Citroens and Audis chasing it down? MINI is now very well established in the small car sector. First thing that goes towards MINIs favour is its eco credentials as it has CO2 emissions of only 99g/km. This is below the threshold of 100g/km which means it escapes road tax and Londons congestion charge. It also has a headline grabbing fuel economy of 74.3mpg.
Make no mistake about it; this is not a lazy eco special. When the One D moves it feels very punch, all due the new BMW made 1.6 litre engine with a six speed manual gearbox. It goes from 0-62mph in 11.4 seconds and gives 89bhp. There is a more powerful 110bhp Cooper D model which is faster but costs 1,500 more. The One D is refined excellently. The good news is that the face lifted One D still has the MINI charm. It handles and looks the same as a classic MINI. Changes to the exterior have been made by giving it fresh bumpers and revised lights. On the inside nothing much has been changed just the stereo and heater controls have been slightly revised. This latest design update keeps the MINI looking sharp and fresh.
MINI has tried their best to make this updated version flawless but they havent succeeded fully. The suspension if stiff and it feels cramped as the space is limited in the boot and rear seats. The price starts from 14,480, which is expensive but no other car on the road offer the thrills for low running costs. It is bound to be very popular. MINIs main rival the Citroen DS3 boosts virtually the same emissions and efficiency figures but is no match to its rivals.
It also boosts Brake Energy Regeneration which recovers kinetic energy normally lost during braking. This is then converted in to electricity to be stored in cars battery. It is more expensive than the petrol-engined cars, so it will only save you money once you have racked up lots of miles. The One D has sportier looks but this hasnt compromised on how efficient this car really is. The 1.6 litre turbo diesel runs quite fast it handles excellent making it fun to drive like any other MINI. However it is not as comfortable and practical as a MINI should be.