Third-generation Mini is bigger and better in every respect. New three-cylinder petrol engine is an absolute belter, too, as we discover on the road. The 2014 Mini Cooper, and one of the most anticipated cars of the year so far. This is the first time Mini has let anyone outside of the company try the new three-door hatchback on public roads, and its a chance weve been waiting for since the wraps first came off the third-generation model in November. Certainly, from the snug confines of the optional sport seats, it is hard to argue that the new Cooper is anything but a huge step forward. From behind its classy multi-function steering wheel – itself part of a significant rethink of the interior – the driving experience is welcomingly familiar. But there is also a newfound maturity and sense of quality that makes the car even more pleasant to be in and a good deal more rewarding to drive. The turbocharged 1. 5-litre three-cylinder petrol unit is one of four all-new, in-house-developed forced-induction three and four-cylinder engines that will find their way into the new Mini. It is an absolute belter, serving up the sort of performance and user-friendliness its relatively conservative power output fails to convey on paper. As fitted here, it produces 134bhp at 4500rpm and 162lb ft at just 1250rpm. The launch range also includes a 94bhp 1. 5-litre three-cylinder diesel plus a 189bhp 2. 0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine in the Cooper S, the latter being the only unit at launch to increase in capacity.
