Over the next six months, we’ll be testing the Mini Cooper C to find out whether the base model is, indeed, the variant of choice.
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Time spent: One of six months
Distance covered: 956 km
Average fuel consumption: 7.78 L/100 km
We like: Characterful; fun to drive; punchy engine
We don’t like: Pricey options; start/stop system’s hesitancy to disengage
When we tested the new Mini Cooper (in three-door S guise) in April 2025, we noted that, while the sportier model impressed, the more affordable but nonetheless characterful C would likely be our model of choice. So, when the base Cooper arrived on our doorstep for a six-month test, we were curious to find out whether this is, indeed, the case. Save for the fitment of a few choice options, such as upgraded (R12 400) LED headlamps and (R16 000) 17-inch alloys, the three-door Cooper you see here is as basic as Mini’s smallest offering can be. And that’s refreshing.
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The long-term standard, Classic level of specification (Favoured and John Cooper Works trims, and a selection of equipment packages are also available), hasn’t really left me wanting. That said, juggling armfuls of shopping while fishing for the key fob to unlock the boot highlighted the lack of keyless, often a standard feature at this price point – as an oversight.
Dressed in ‘Melting Silver III Metallic’ paintwork, replete with a black contrast roof, the test car cuts a handsome figure. However, the highlight of the package is the interior. The cabin is beautifully crafted and solidly constructed. The attention to detail and use of materials are impressive, and the central OLED instrumentation/infotainment display is crisp and seamless to operate. In its first month under our custodianship, the C’s gem of a 1.5-litre turbo-triple returned an average fuel consumption of 7.78 L/100 km; just 1.78 L/100 km more than Mini’s claim. This is by no fault of its own, however…
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Though I’d like to attribute this figure to city driving, it’s admittedly the result of spirited driving. While I do consider myself a “light-footed” driver, the C is such a joy to pilot that the thought of considered throttle inputs is quickly relegated to the back of one’s mind. The Mini wants to keep moving and, since its arrival, I’ve obliged. Though I’ve set out a goal to bring down the fuel consumption in the next month.
It may not be as powerful as the S, but the C possesses the same ‘Go-kart’ driving dynamics. Thanks to its well-weighted steering setup and excellent roadholding, it’s impressively agile. The C is not especially quick in a straight line, however. Yet, the 110 kW/230 N.m three-cylinder provides plenty of punch in town and when overtaking on the motorway. Contributing to the latter is its slick 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.
Currently, our only gripe with the powertrain is its start/stop system, which is somewhat hesitant to disengage upon pull away. Is this the Cooper to have? One month in, and it certainly seems so. A road trip is already on the cards…
Find the full feature in the May 2025 issue of CAR Magazine.
