The MINI One is like a Mini Cooper, only not quite, it’s been trimmed down a bit.
It is way closer to the original Mini than any of the other modern Minis. So on one level it is a winner. It has a certain stylistic integrity and nostalgic feel to it.
But then you look at what else you could buy and keep a bag full of change and you wonder.
What do I really get in the package MINI calls One?
The engine you get is a three-cylinder twin-turbo 1.2 unit delivering 75 kW and 180 Nm. Not too shabby. It claims a very optimistic 4.9 litre/100 km. I got just under 7 L/100 km (not even close to 5), which is not bad.
You get a really pleasant driving experience. It’s fun and feels sure footed. I think it sounds fabulous. I just loved the roar of the three-cylinder mill being fed by the two turbos.
You get a funky looking car on the outside.
You get a “nice” interior, but nothing to write home about.
You get to drive a MINI. Nice badge.
That’s what you get.
You do not get climate control, onboard computer with consumption figures, front fog lights, multi-function leather sport steering wheel, and so on, as standard. You have to buy additional expensive Chilli and Wired accessory packages.
You do not get a big boot or rear doors or windows that can open or that children can see out of. This makes me a little ambivalent about this one.
The manual costs a whopping R272 000 and the auto an eye watering R290 000. That’s a lot of money for a quite basic little car. But it is different and may be worth a bit of a premium.
It is a “lekka” little car. Have fun.
