Mini One lobs from $24,500
BY TIM NICHOLSON | 16th Jul 2014
The new base variant is $2150 cheaper than the $26,650 Mini Cooper in the hatch line-up, which then climbs to $31,800 for the diesel-powered Cooper D before topping out with the Cooper S hot-hatch from $36,950.
Mini Australia national manager Kai Bruesewicz confirmed the addition of the Mini One to the line-up at the Australian launch of the F56 hatch in April, but it was expected to arrive later in the year.
The One is powered by a smaller capacity version of the three-cylinder petrol unit found under the bonnet of the regular Cooper hatch.
The 1.2-litre unit produces 75kW of power and 180Nm of torque, which is 25kW/40Nm lower the more powerful 100kW/220Nm 1.5-litre three-pot in the Cooper.
Mini says this can push the One from a standing start to 100km/h in 9.9 seconds in standard six-speed manual guise (10.2 seconds for the automatic), while fuel consumption is 4.9 litres per 100 kilometres on the combined cycle (5.0L/100km for the auto).
The Mini One gets idle stop, electric-assisted power steering, electric differential lock, BMW's Dynamic Stability Control and Dynamic Traction Control, putting it ahead of the previous most affordable Mini, the Ray.
Bluetooth connectivity, a USB port, cloth trim, air-conditioner, roof spoiler, rear fog-lights, follow-me home lights, heated exterior mirrors and 15-inch steel wheels are all standard.
Options include six-speed automatic transmission for $2136, while rear parking sensors add $500.
Mr Bruesewicz said the new entry variant offers good value for money and should ensure the brand gains more attention from local buyers.
“The new Mini One Hatch embodies the same technical and quality advancements demonstrated in the rest of the new Mini Hatch range, and when compared to the previous entry level model, offers customers greater performance, improved comfort and a lot more value for money,” he said.
“The improved performance, higher levels of sophistication and equipment levels as well as the attractive price will ensure the exciting Mini brand is on the shopping list of more Aussies customers.” A five-door version of the iconic hatch, dubbed the 5 Door, is set to join the ever-growing Mini line-up next year when it rolls into Mini garages in about February.
The John Cooper Works performance variant of the Cooper Hatch is also expected to lob in the first quarter of next year.
