Ray returns as Mini’s base variant

MINI has reshuffled its Hatch and 5-door model line-up by scrapping the base variant One and replacing with the reintroduced Ray variant, priced from $29,000 driveaway.

It is not the first time Australian customers have seen the Ray, with the more affordable model launching as a limited-edition model in 2011 to entice buyers to the Mini brand at a lower price point.

It now returns to replace the One, which was introduced last year and priced from $24,950 before on-roads for the manual Hatch version.

The Ray will employ the 1.2-litre turbocharged three-cylinder petrol unit previously used in the One, producing 75kW/180Nm for a fuel economy figure of 4.9 litres per 100km when mated to the six-speed manual gearbox.

A six-speed automatic transmission is offered as a $2500 option, and has a fuel consumption figure of 5.0L/100km.

The Ray will be offered with metallic black or solid white paint, and comes with exterior detailing such as clear indicator lenses, specific mirror covers, bonnet stripes, side scuttles and Ray badging.

Buyers can choose from three Ray accessory colours – pink, yellow or green – that adorn parts of the car including the side mirrors and bonnet stripes.

Standard equipment on the Ray includes 15-inch wheels, hands-free Bluetooth with USB interface, heated and electrically operated exterior mirrors, six airbags and rear park distance control.

Safety equipment includes dynamic traction with electronic diff lock, dynamic stability control, electronic brake force distribution control, and anti-lock braking with brake assist and cornering brake control as standard.

Mini Australia general manager Tony Sesto said the reborn Ray represents great value for prospective Mini buyers.

“The Mini Ray marks the entry to the brand and delivers design, style and luxury you would expect from a Mini,” he said.

“At only $29,000 driveaway, it also represents strong value, while a selected range of Mini Accessories enhancements offer the purchaser a chance to personalise, as per Mini tradition.”All Mini models come with a three year/unlimited kilometre warranty.

Mini has sold a combined 1258 Hatches and 5-doors to the end of June 2016, just about on track to match its 2015 year-end figure of 2620.

It is currently leading the 2016 sales race against rivals such as the Audi A1 (1061 units), Peugeot 208 (411) and the DS3 (20).

2016 Mini Ray driveaway pricing

Hatch	$29,000
Hatch (a)	$31,500
5-door	$30,500
5-door (a)	$33,000