What is it?
This is a Mini Cooper with a difference; it sips diesel rather than petrol, making it the first sporty version of the new Mini to draw its fuel from the black pump.
In base form, the new Cooper D is pretty well specified (especially for safety) with 16in alloys, a colour-contrast roof and a similar tailgate spoiler. It lacks only air-con, which can be added in the £1000 ‘Pepper’ option pack along with the excellent leather steering wheel, front fogs, trip computer and exterior chrome trim.
What’s more, the servicing deal is an absolute steal. Five years and 50,000 mile servicing is just £150. You can extend that to eight years and 80,000 miles for a total of £530. Amazing value, that.
Under the bonnet is the new BMW-PSA 110bhp 1.6-litre turbodiesel motor. It twists out 192 lb ft of torque on overboost and has a particulate filter, so it’s not only frugal (64.2mpg combined) but it’s clean.
What's it like?
Slam the very solid doors and it’s obvious the new Cooper D is as great a place to spend time as any of the new Mini Coopers. The high-backed seats are wider, with sensible bolstering and an excellent adjustment range. The dash is more solidly built than the last Mini's, the cupholders will accommodate a Starbuck's coffee and there are now useable door bins.
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