Why buy the Mini Hatch?
Looking for a stylish small car with a premium image that’s fun to drive? The Mini Hatch could be the car for you. Most versions have low running costs, and there is a wealth of different trim and colour combinations to choose from.
Mini Hatch range and updates
The current Mini Hatch has been on sale since 2014 – it’s the third generation of Mini since the brand was reintroduced by BMW in 2000. This latest Mini has been updated a few times times over the years, with subtle design tweaks and more modern tech and features. There are three-door or five-door hatchback models to choose from, with petrol or diesel engines and manual or automatic gearboxes. There’s also a battery-powered version, which is sold as the Mini Electric.
The ‘core’ Mini Hatch trim levels are called One, Cooper, Cooper S and John Cooper Works. You can find out more about Understanding Mini Cooper trim levels here.
In addition to the standard trim levels, there have been a number of special-edition models, including the Seven, Anniversary Edition and the Resolute Edition. A brand-new, fourth-generation BMW-built Mini will be launched in 2024.
Mini Hatch tech and features
The features you get as standard with a Mini Hatch depends on which trim level you choose and what’s included and not included has changed a number of times since 2014. At a minimum every version of the post-2014 model has cruise control, DAB radio, Bluetooth, electric windows and electric door mirrors included as standard. Many also have sat nav, air con and parking sensors; some have more luxurious features like leather seats and a panoramic glass sunroof.
Mini Hatch running costs and value
According to official figures, Mini Hatch models with a petrol engine can give average fuel economy of anywhere between 34mpg and 60mpg, depending on the model. Diesel models can give 68mpg to 76mpg. Car tax costs are low, if not as low as for some similarly compact cars. Other running costs like servicing are fairly low, too. Insurance costs for most models are reasonable but the high-performance Cooper S Works version has comparatively high insurance group ratings.
Mini Hatch vs rivals
The Mini Hatch can be compared against many other small hatchbacks such as the Fiat 500, Ford Fiesta, Audi A1 and Peugeot 208. The Mini’s distinctive style and brand are a large part of its appeal and it feels great to drive. It’s not the most practical car of this type, though.
