
A motoring expert has praised one specific used car
A used car expert has highlighted how impressive one popular small car, claiming that few rivals can match the vehicle. Motoring enthusiasts are often giving tips for people looking for new vehicles on what to aim for. Just recently, an expert claimed one used car is "the most reliable" in the world.
But now another car has come to the fore – the Mini Cooper. The vehicle was reinvigorated as a brand and motor vehicle when it was revived by BMW in the early-2000s. Since the car was brought back to life, now as the MINI, it has become a hit among millions of drivers around the world. As a result, it has become a fan favourite on the used car market for it’s smart handling and reliability. Discussing the car, Auto Express’ Richard Dredge praised the Anglo-German model.
He said: “In 2016 the MINI was crowned Best Premium Small Car at our New Car Awards for the third time in a row. It was our overall Car of the Year in 2014. Then and now, the MINI is up against some stiff competition, but we reckon that none of its rivals can match the ever-popular model’s cheeky looks, efficient engines, engaging dynamics and low running costs.”
On which version of the MINI people should buy, Richard said it all depended on what option packs you were after and whether one would be happy with a manual or automatic gearbox, but recommended the Cooper.
He explained: “Air-con had to be specified at the time of ordering as a no-cost option on the One/One D and Cooper/Cooper D models, so check it’s fitted. The One is spartan, so we’d go for at least a Cooper.
A five door version of the MINI Cooper
“Pin down what options or option packs are included on any potential purchase; the list is extensive. The Pepper and Chili packs bring different features depending on the trim level.” He also noted it was "impressive" how high the MINI MK3 ranked in AutoExpress' survey among owners.
Whilst the MINI as a brand may be strong in the UK, there is uncertainty over the future of its Oxford plant.
Earlier this year, in February, it was announced that parent-company BMW had announced a decision to delay the reintroduction of electric car production at the facility.
MINI's Oxford Plant was under scrutiny earlier this year
In a statement, they said: “Plant Oxford is at the heart of Mini production, manufacturing and exporting a range of models, which are sought after in the UK and around the world.
"However, given the multiple uncertainties facing the automotive industry, the BMW Group is currently reviewing the timing for reintroducing battery-electric Mini production in Oxford.
“We have informed the UK government of our decision to review the timeline for reintroducing battery-electric production in Oxford.
"As part of this discussion, we agreed not to take the previously announced grant, but we remain in close dialogue about our future plans."