Mini One Clubman vs rivals

Want to stand out from the small car crowd? Well, there is no shortage of image-driven models trying to attract your attention. For the same price as conventional superminis, they give buyers the chance to make a real style statement. MINI dominates the urban landscape here, and its Clubman is now available in entry- level One trim for the first time. But it isn’t the only newcomer that mixes unique styling with extra room.

The Toyota Urban Cruiser is different in concept, but similarly priced and aimed squarely at the same image-driven buyers as the MINI. It is based on the firm’s Yaris platform and bosses claim it combines rugged off-road styling with a healthy dose of city-friendliness. As with the MINI, it benefits from a stop-start system, and its 1.3-litre engine promises performance to match its British rival.

They both face competition from Kia’s Soul. It is the bargain of the trio, with a bigger engine than its rivals and a smaller price tag. Its 4x4-style looks are a brave attempt to attract buyers with charm and desirability, as well as value. So which comes out on top in the urban jungle?