Mini Hatch review

• For: Entertaining to drive, strong image, quirky interior
• Against: Lack of rear-seat space, expensive to buy, costly options
• Verdict: A characterful but compromised small car

Today’s Mini Hatch offers retro styling, ‘go-kart handling’ and BMW build quality, making it a consistent top 10 best-seller in the UK.

The classic three-door hatchback is now joined by a more practical five-door version, aimed at those who demand space inside their small car.

Nonetheless, the Mini Hatch remains a case of form ruling function – the back seat is cramped for adult passengers, while the boot is far too small.

There are four petrol engines to choose from: two versions of the fizzy 1.5-litre three-cylinder turbo and two 2.0 four-cylinder units.

The larger engines are used to great effect in the Cooper S and John Cooper Works (JCW) hot hatchbacks. But don’t discount the 1.5 unit, especially in the best-of-both-worlds Cooper.

If you like the look of the Mini, you’ll love the way it drives and makes you feel.

Sure, it’s expensive, but the cost is offset by slow depreciation and the affordable car finance resulting from that.

KEY INFO

• Launched: 2014
• Facelifted: 2018, 2021
• Due for replacement: TBC