insideKENT Magazine Issue 37 - April 2015 | Page 133

Many years ago, I had to part company with my old-style MINI Cooper Sport. It was a tragic day, ruled by a head-over-broken-heart decision, and based mainly on two very small humans who were rapidly getting bigger. Fortunately, the new MINI was on hand to give me a big virtual hug, and take on the challenge of being our small family-friendly car. Now my little people are getting bigger, and whilst our lovely 3-door MINI is still a much-loved member of the clan, I was very interested in trying out the new 5-door offering, and finding out if it is a contender for the next season of life. Turns out, it is! On first appearances, it looks exactly like a MINI, but sleeker, longer, more elegant and, dare I say, mature. There is a new and pleasing curve to the rear, and the car appears to sit lower and look sturdier as a result. The bit at the back means there is more room to accommodate the extra doors, but, by some feat of what can only be sheer magic, the result is more legroom and a much bigger boot than the standard 3-door MINI. I’m not sure how they did this, but it’s really rather brilliant! The 5-door’s dazzling sporty looks were set off beautifully with a funky white spoiler, an eyecatching electric panoramic sunroof, whopping great 18” alloys and a shiny central twin exhaust. In short, this car looks magnificent. Inside, you will find a reassuringly familiar MINI cockpit. Sporty, comfy leather (including a wonderfully chunky racing-feel steering wheel) combined with polished metal panels and a dashboard that manages to combine classic with cutting edge, means that everything looks and feels of the highest quality. 133 The