SAY hello to the third-generation of the BMW-owned Mini hatch launched since 2001.

New platform, new engines, new interior, new panels… same funky retro appeal.

That’s the aim, anyway, and on first impressions this chic little Oxfordian is more desirable than ever.

And it’s not just the price cuts — the base Cooper is $5000 cheaper at $26,650 plus on-roads, though with an options list this long, chances are few will pay that.

No, this version also has even sharper handling and better balance than its predecessor, while the new BMW three- and four-cylinder petrol engine family is a step up over the tired old PSA units used before.

Read on for the full review…

Click here for the full review...