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MINI overview

MINI (pronounced MI-nee) is nothing short of an icon on UK roads. Alec Issignosis, who was working for the Morris Company at the time, designed the first model in 1959. It was the first of its kind, offering two key innovations. Firstly, due to the wheel placement on the far corners of the vehicle, the cabin space available was greater than other models at the time. Secondly, Issignossis turned the engine on its side. This offered greater stability during cornering.

The model soon saw success thanks to its compact size, low cost and fun drive. It remained popular throughout the ensuing decades and sold 5 million units by 1999. A panel of automotive journalists voted it the European Car of the Century.

The last Classic Mini rolled off the production line in 2000. This was four years after BMW acquired the MINI brand. The new MINI Cooper’s debut ushered in a new era for the manufacturer at the Berlin Motor Show. Brought up to date, the new MINI had larger dimensions and more advanced technology. Instantly recognisable, it found a new niche in the hearts of modern motorists. Other variants of the model followed. These included a convertible, the Countryman SUV and, more recently, the zero-emissions MINI Electric.

The MINI brand has retained its popular appeal over the decades through its free-spirited ethos. It encapsulated the zeitgeist of the 1960s and kept the original model’s fun, charismatic nature until the turn of the millennium. Despite today’s more sophisticated image, MINI is still a brand that puts the driver first and emphasises innovation.

Popular MINI models

The MINI Hatchback bears the most resemblance to the Classic Mini. Available in three and five-door iterations, it has won multiple awards. It provides the perfect solution to urban motoring. Its compact dimensions make it easy to park and its efficient engines keep fuel costs low. As popular as ever, the vehicle sold over 2.5 million units between 2001 and 2012. The Mk4 model, unveiled in 2023, was exclusively as a three-door electric vehicle. This was part of the brand’s commitment to reducing emissions.

MINI introduced the Countryman in 2010. This was in response to a growing demand for subcompact crossovers. It draws on the distinctive MINI aesthetic while providing more space and a raised ride height. A plug-in hybrid option joined the line up of petrol variants in 2020. It delivered the same fun drive and a zero-emissions range of up to 31 miles.

With the same retro design cues as the rest of the lineup, the MINI Clubman is a small estate car that debuted in 2007. It’s well suited to family motoring thanks to its improved space. It offers a four-wheel-drive option for more challenging conditions.

Perfect for summer days and top-down fun, the MINI Convertible arrived in 2001. With all the design and driving characteristics of the hatchback, it adds a retractable roof that enhances its appeal. It is a popular choice today, particularly for younger motorists. Its sporty feel and generous levels of equipment also ensure it stands out from competitors.

Manufacturer awards

MINI has enjoyed the praise of customers and critics alike over the past decade. It has won multiple awards for its vehicles. In 2021, over 38,000 drivers voted the MINI Hatch as the Most Wanted Used Car at the FirstCar Awards. A year later, the MINI Convertible won its sixth consecutive Best Convertible award at the Carbuyer Best Car Awards.

MINI’s endeavours to create eco-conscious vehicles has not gone unnoticed either. Green Car Journal named the MINI Cooper SE the Urban Green Car of the Year in 2021. Electrifying.com gave the Best Money Saving Urban Car title to the MINI Electric. Their experts called the model fun, solid and refined. "the MINI Electric is a great way for urban dwellers to save money without feeling like they are economising".

MINI frequently asked questions