Regular contributor Nicholas Pillay managed to get a hold of a new Mini Cooper S to review for a few days. He tells us why the iconic hatch makes for fun, everyday driving.

The Mini Cooper S (F66) is a standout vehicle that brings a blend of practicality and performance, making it a strong contender for those who want a fun driving experience. Whether you’re navigating city streets or hitting the highway, the Mini Cooper S offers a dynamic drive that remains within speed limits, delivering a balance of excitement and control.

Retro Meets Modern: A Classic Look with Updated Features

The F66 Cooper S stays true to Mini’s iconic design, while incorporating modern updates. The signature circular headlights are now enhanced with sharper LED accents, and the front grille has been refreshed to give the car a sportier, more contemporary appearance. Mini also continues to offer extensive customisation options, allowing drivers to personalize their vehicle with various colors, stripes, and roof colors.

Performance

Powered by a 150 kW turbocharged engine, the Mini Cooper S F66 offers impressive acceleration for its class. The engine provides plenty of power whether you’re merging onto a highway or driving through urban areas. One of the highlights of the driving experience is Mini’s “Go-Kart” mode, which enhances the car’s steering responsiveness and stiffens the suspension. While this mode is particularly enjoyable for enthusiasts, the car handles well in everyday driving scenarios too, offering stability and grip, especially when cornering at moderate speeds.

Comfort and Interior Features

Inside the Mini Cooper S, the cabin strikes a balance between comfort and high-quality materials. The seats are supportive, and there are plenty of adjustments available to suit different driver preferences. The interior maintains Mini’s unique charm while integrating modern technology. Leather, soft-touch plastics, and metal accents contribute to a premium feel. The car’s weight adds to the sense of control, making it feel secure on the road even during spirited driving. However, it also performs well in routine commuting, offering a solid and composed experience.

Mini OS9: A User-Friendly Tech Interface

One of the standout features of the Mini Cooper S F66 is the Mini OS9 infotainment system. The 8,8-inch circular touchscreen in the center of the dash is intuitive and easy to use, controlling everything from climate settings to navigation. The voice assistant is a helpful addition, making the system even more accessible when driving. Mini’s augmented reality navigation is another notable feature, providing clear, real-time guidance, particularly useful for South African roads. It enhances the overall driving experience by making lane changes and off-ramps easier to navigate.

Fuel Efficiency

Despite its performance capabilities, the Mini Cooper S offers decent fuel efficiency. On the highway, fuel consumption ranges between 4,5 and 4,8 L/100 km, while city driving returns figures around 7,2 to 7,4 L/100 km. If you engage Go-Kart mode, fuel consumption increases to approximately 8,5–9,0 L/100 km. While the higher consumption in sportier driving modes is expected, the car remains efficient for most everyday uses.

Driver Assistance Features

The Mini Cooper S includes several driver assistance features, which are useful without being overly intrusive. The lane departure warning offers a subtle vibration to alert the driver, and the automatic emergency braking is responsive without being overly sensitive. Additionally, the automatic parking assistant helps navigate tight parking spaces efficiently, making it a convenient tool for urban driving.

Customisation

Mini continues its tradition of offering a high degree of personalization. Drivers can customize the interior lighting, driver assistance settings, and even display custom images on the digital cluster. These small details help drivers create a vehicle that feels tailored to their preferences.

Pricing

With a price range of between R720k–R740k, the Mini Cooper S is positioned competitively within its segment. When compared to other vehicles like the Audi A3 or Volkswagen Golf GTI, the Mini offers a unique blend of performance, style, and technology. For those looking for a similar experience at a lower price, the Mini Cooper C is available for R650k, offering similar features with a smaller engine.

Final Thoughts: A Balanced Mix of Performance and Practicality

The Mini Cooper S F66 is a well-rounded vehicle that combines fun, performance, and practicality. While it may not match the raw power of some of its competitors, it offers an engaging driving experience that suits both daily commuting and spirited weekend drives. The extensive customization options, modern technology, and overall driving dynamics make it a strong choice for those seeking a versatile and enjoyable car. The new Mini is one of those cars that you just have to drive to understand.

Thanks to James at Mini Bedfordview for loaning us the test unit.