The Not-So-Mini : Mini S 5-Door Review

The five-door Mini S has caused a stir at motor shows over the last couple of years. Yet, it has taken so long to hit the market. Mini have teased and teased, but it’s finally here and we got our hands on one. Over the last thirteen years, since the relaunch of the Mini, it has grown larger and larger. The 5 door mini is, naturally, larger than any previous iteration. They’ve taken what was an incredibly fun, exciting car and made it more practical. But, the crucial question we were asking ourselves is whether they retained the sense of fun.

Quite simply, yes, they have. The not-so-mini Mini still has that ravaged sense of fun at the helm. It is still responsive, engaging and a dream to throw into the corners. That extra size has calmed it just a touch. It’s less a go-kart and more a rally car. Still fierce and fun! You’d be forgiven for ignoring yet another new Mini. Over the last few years we’ve seen the coupe, the Paceman and Countryman all introduced. The Mini S 5 Door really is worth shouting about though.

The Mini Legacy

The relaunch of the Mini has been the single most success relaunch in the car world. The new Mini updated the style and became one of the most popular cars on the market. They have squeezed out all manner of variations, as you can see at www.coopermini.co.uk. Each with their own benefits. But, we never got what we really wanted. That original hatch with five doors. Now it’s here.

The Competition

The hatchback world is thriving right now. The Ford Focus is at the top of its game and the ST version is one of very best cars on the road. The Volkswagen Golf is the godfather of hot hatchbacks and is a truly fine car. The new Vauxhall Corsa is a snappy competitor too. The Mini has always stood up to them when it comes to power, excitement and fun. Now it joins them as a truly fine balance of fun and practicality. The extra two doors just changed the game.

Driveability

So, what exactly is it like to drive? We were worried that the extra doors would mean a sacrifice in the engine department. It turns out, we had nothing to worry about. The fantastic little engine will still turn out nearly 200 brake horsepower. It has a top speed of 145mph and will do 0-60 in a fraction less than 7 seconds. Best of all, it still feels fun.

Economy

Nowadays, no car test is complete without a look at the fuel economy. For a practical hatchback, mileage is an essential component. It’s certainly not the best in class, but it will get a healthy 48 miles to the gallon on a good day. Not bad for a car that’s this powerful and exciting.

Don’t be put off by yet another Mini launch. This one is the real deal. It’s the proper five door hatch we’ve been waiting for from Mini. They have taken their time to develop it and get it right. We’re pleased they did. It’s a perfect balance of fun, excitement and practicality. Where do we sign to buy one?