FORECOURT
MINI HATCH COOPER S SPORT Mini’s current-generation Hatch has had a second facelift. Ted Welford finds out if the changes go far enough.
Under the bonnet
The Cooper S is powered by a 2.0-litre engine that pumps out 176bhp and 280Nm of torque.
THE KNOWLEDGE Mini Hatch Cooper S Sport
Price (as tested): £29,910 Engine: 2.0-litre petrol engine Power: 176bhp Torque: 280Nm Max speed: 146mph O-60mph: 6.5 seconds MPG (combined): 43.5-45.6 Emissions: 140-148g/km CO2
WHAT IS IT? The current generation has been around since 2013 but there doesn’t look to be a replacement until 2025. So for the time being, Mini is back with a new facelift, following the one of 2018, that aims to keep this supermini fresh. WHAT’S NEW? Most noticeably, it has a new front-end design. There’s also less chrome than before, with Mini buyers seemingly wanting it painted black regardless, we’re told. Inside, there’s a new ‘smartphone-inspired’ 8.8-inch touchscreen, as well as new ambient lighting that changes colour depending on how loud the volume is. WHAT’S UNDER THE BONNET? Most are familiar with Mini’s engine range, and it’s not changed on this update, with the same One, Cooper, Cooper S and John Cooper Works options available, and with power figures ranging from the first car-friendly 101bhp One to the 228bhp JCW hot hatch. Our test car is the Cooper S – the less hardcore hot-hatch option. Powered by a turbocharged 2.0-litre engine, it kicks out 176bhp and 280Nm of torque. There’s a choice of manual or automatic, with our car using the former. With the sprint to 60mph taking 6.5 seconds and a top speed of 146mph, it’s certainly not lacking in pace. WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE? It can dart down twisty back roads at an impressive rate, feeling light and agile. The engine encourages you to push to the top of the rev range, when it begins to sound slightly more raucous but without ever being over the top. There’s also a new adaptive suspension available – fitted as standard to Sport versions – which aims to offer more in the way of comfort. HOW DOES IT LOOK? It’s the front of the Hatch that gets most changes, with a larger grille being fitted, along with black surrounds for the headlights and grille itself. The traditional circular sidelights in the lower bumper have also been ditched, with new vertical slats introduced – helping to give the car a wider look, as well as improving airflow. In true Mini style, there’s also greater personalisation available, including three new colours and five new wheel designs. A cool
36 | CarDealerMag.co.uk
