Hot cars: new drives

Grocer, Sept 16, 2006

New Mini

You don't mess with success. Five years after the Mini was relaunched, the new Mini is still funky, fun and desirable.

At first glance, the new Mini, on sale in December from 11,595 [pounds sterling], looks remarkably like the current one. Only redesigned headlights, a higher bonnet and new grille mark out the new car. But beneath a similar skin lies a very different animal.

The big news is the switch to new engines. Out go the occasionally raucous Chrysler-derived 1.6 petrol units, replaced with new petrols built in Britain and destined for a range of BMW and Peugeot-Citroen cars. The new Cooper has a 118bhp 1.6-litre engine, while the Cooper S hot hatch has a turbocharged 173bhp version. Both marginally quicker, the Cooper S hits 62mph in 7.1 seconds and tops 140mph.

In terms of space, the Mini is more compromised than any other supermini. But while the rear is cramped, it's comfy up front. The seats have been redesigned with generous space for adults of all sizes. The boot, at 160 litres, is 10 litres bigger but is still a tight squeeze, even for a week's shopping.

However, the new Mini remains the essence of cool. Which other 11k [pounds sterling] supermini is sought by image-conscious trendsetters, from city estate agents to rock stars, including Madonna?

Nissan Note

Is it a big supermini or a small MPV? Whatever it is, the Note is a great family car--cheap to run, well equipped and with lots of legroom. A small boot and sluggish, fidgety ride mean it isn't our favourite, but it is cheap to run (12,990 [pounds sterling]).

Skoda Roomster

Aimed at young families, the idea is to provide a roomy, versatile cabin in a car that's as cheap to buy (13,050 [pounds sterling]) and easy to park as a supermini. It's bright and spacious, with plenty of oomph, but comes with a rowdy engine and vague steering.

Seat Altea

A roomy, versatile family car with a strong engine, fine drive and five-star NCAP crash rating. All-round visibility could be better, but at least good discounts on the list price (13,365 [pounds sterling]) mean you can afford to splash out on a few extra comforts.