THE new MINI First might feature some slightly dodgy plastic hubcaps; there’s no air conditioning; and engine power is down to 75hp. But with a price tag of £10,950 some things had to go.
The new First is MINI’s answer to the equally appealing, but better equipped Fiat 500. For comparison, a 500 1.4 Lounge costs £10,905.
Powering the new MINI First is the same 1.4-litre engine as the MINI One. But output is lowered from 95hp to 75hp: 0-62mph takes 13.2 seconds. Fuel consumption (53.3mpg) and CO2 emissions (128g/km) are identical to MINI One. This means a company car tax band of 15%.
Like the MINI One, MINI First features fuel-saving technology for low running costs, such as Auto Start-Stop, Brake Energy Regeneration, Variable Valve Technology and Shift Point Display
However, if the comfort kit has been stripped out, the safety equipment remains. Anti-skid Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) is standard.
Extras can be added. Air conditioning is £665; metallic paint is £330. And various packs can personalise the MINI First – but push up the overall price.
MINI First package prices
- Design package £525
- Tech package £855
- Salt package £390
- Five-year TLC service and maintenance package £185
First model makes MINI more affordable
