Mini Hatch (2013-2024) review

The Mini hatchback remains a criminally bad piece of packaging. When the 1959 original’s ground-breaking use of a transverse engine was solely so you could get four adults and some luggage into the tiniest footprint possible, the fact the chunky modern-day three-door model would struggle to accommodate a couple of toddlers in the back seems an unforgivable sin. Ditto the boot, which’ll take, at best, two carry-on suitcases.

However, the hatchback’s practicality failings are the reason the five-door, Clubman and Countryman Mini models exist, so treating the three-door as a funky, small coupe is a good way of thinking about it more favourably. And the quality of the cabin is not to be questioned; the low seating position in particular is terrific.

What changes did the facelift bring?

All Minis now get an 8.8-inch touchscreen as standard running new operating software. It’s an easy-to-use system and still features plenty of physical buttons to assist. The air vents are now more smoothly integrated into the dashboard too, and the electronic handbrake helps to add a little more space inside.

The three-spoke steering wheel is also new and features high-quality leather on all trim levels, while the new digital dials are plucked straight from the Mini Electric and are clear enough. 

The £2,350 Premium Plus Package adds a panoramic sunroof, wireless charging, Harmon Kardon sound system, Comfort Plus Pack and Navigation Pack.

How small is the boot exactly?

In the three-door hatch you get a grand total of 211 litres – exactly the same as you’ll find in the Mini Electric – and slightly more in the five-door hatch, at 278 litres.

Still, that’s slightly bigger than the Fiat 500 and Toyota Aygo’s boot, but slightly less than the Hyundai i10 and Kia Picanto will afford you. If you’re after even more space, you’re looking at a Peugeot 208 or used Ford Fiesta (because they don't make them any more, RIP).

Alternatively, you can fold the seats down for 731 litres or 941 litres in the three-door and five-door respectively. Handy for the tip run.