MINI Cooper S

The MINI needs no introduction. Its unique shape is instantly recognisable, and the second-generation model has changed little from its retro-inspired predecessor. It’s a shame, then, that the Cooper S does little to look more sporting than lesser variants.

	However, push the engine start button, and you’ll soon realise this is every inch a hot hatch

Aside from the badging, twin centre-exit exhaust and fake bonnet air intake, there’s nothing to mark the range-topping machine out. It’s the same story with the cabin, which is wonderfully designed and makes a real statement, but again is little different to the standard car’s.

However, push the engine start button, and you’ll soon realise this is every inch a hot hatch. The 175bhp unit doesn’t need to be worked as hard as the 207’s, due mainly to the positive and nicely weighted gearchange. The power delivery is smooth and predictable, although it does lack the top-end grunt of the VXR or Clio.

But the MINI is superbly tractable low in the rev range and feels glued to the road, even under hard acceleration. Communicative steering makes for a rewarding drive, and the Cooper S turns in precisely, and rarely becomes unsettled. On smooth roads it is superb – although it’s not perfect.

The ride is far from absorbent, and the large 17-inch wheels with run-flat tyres don’t help. This makes the MINI less relaxing than its rivals over bumpy surfaces, and it’s more likely to be thrown off course. On country roads it doesn’t always flow from bend to bend as smoothly as the VXR or 207.

Then there’s the price. The Cooper S is the most expensive car here, at £16,010. But air-con is an option, and so is stability control, which we think is a big oversight. It’s clear that if you want a well specified MINI, you will have to dig deep.