Looks like a go-kart, feels like a go-kart − but for grown-ups, of course. With radiator grille bars and tailgate handle in gleaming chrome and contrast roof in black or white (with exterior mirror caps to match). And all of this running on sporty 15-inch light-alloy wheels.

Thanks to the 50:50 split-folding rear seats, there's room for four people plus luggage in a MINI. In fact, with all the extra storage space, you may well run out of things to load it with. Circles all around: reminiscent of the classic MINI, fluid forms such as the speedometer design dominate the dashboard.

Even at low speeds, the new MINI Cooper engines are bursting with energy − thanks in no small part to fully variable valve timing and a 1.6-litre motor with 16 valves. The result? More power, less consumption. A perfect win-win situation: A top speed of 199 km/h and 121 hp pure power.