Mini One and Cooper D CAR review

This is old news isn't it? We've seen this new new MINI before...

Ah, but no. You've seen the new Cooper, and the new Cooper S - the sportiest models. This brand spanking pair of cheery-faced tearaways comprise the Mk II entry-level Mini One, and suspiciously unsporty-sounding Cooper D. Yes, that is D for Diesel. We do understand your confusion, however. There are minor exterior trimming differences, but otherwise they look pretty much the same as any other new new Mini, and still don't have any rear legroom. Given the huge range of options available (15,000,000,000,000,000 possible combinations, apparently) spotting one of the new Minis on the road is best done by the boot badges.

Hold on a minute. I'm sorry - did you say Cooper diesel?

Thought you were looking a bit stunned. While 'Cooper Diesel' does sound like a contradiction, we should point out this is an entirely new derv-burning engine. It's out with the old Toyota-derived unit, in with a BMW-fettled PSA/Ford 1.6. This features clever stuff like variable turbine geometry on the turbocharger, second generation high-pressure common-rail diesel technology, and an overboost function. As the Cooper badging suggests, this should in theory serve up a livelier driving experience. The added bonus is seriously impressive fuel economy and very respectable emissions: 64.2mpg combined, and only 118g/km of CO2.