I had the awesome opportunity to test drive this new pocket rocket that has recently hit the streets thanks to MINI Cooper Middle East.
British icon MINI has recently expanded its model range with the addition of the all-new MINI 5-door Hatch, with a sportier version in the MINI 5-door Hatch S. Signalling the start of an exciting new chapter in the brand’s success story that spans more than five decades, this nifty new 5-door model sets to continue the legacy of the first ever automobile in the premium small car segment.
For its size, I was astonished by the amount of power it had behind the wheel. It’s something you have to experience first hand to know what I’m talking about. With the car being so firmly gripped to the ground, you feel so damn comfortable to let it open once in a while.
Exterior
A compact and powerful appearance underscores the agility of the MINI 5-door as well as its consistent focus towards driving fun.
The unique roof line and the emphasis of the rear section draw attention to the extended length, while the increased height reflects the improvement in headroom.
The design reflects the car’s historical roots as well as being an evolutionary refinement of the contemporary vehicle concept.
Interior
Enhanced interior comfort and practicality thanks to the extended length and width of the car.
Perfect combination of driving fun and a premium interior ambience.
The interior has precise lines and high-end colour and material combinations as well as modern functionality.
Display and operating concept can be supplemented with an on-board 8.8inch computer as well as the MINI Controller with touch-sensitive surface.
Technical
The output of the 4-cylinder petrol engine in the MINI 5-door Hatch S is 192 hp. It sprints in 6.8 seconds from zero to 100 km/h and reaches a top speed of 230km/h. Optionally available with a 6-speed Steptronic transmission.
The engine provides a great balance between driving fun and efficient fuel consumption.
Available with a host of driver-assistance technologies, including a head-up display, road-sign detection for speed-limit placards, camera-based adaptive cruise control, collision and pedestrian-impact warnings, and even an automatic braking function.