- MINI Cooper 5dr
- Winner Best SME Compact Company Car
- Independent judges vote it best in sector
- Company car tax from just £74 a month
THE best compact SME company car might well be the best compact car full stop.
It’s the MINI Cooper 5dr. So if you’re looking for a company car, then look no further.
The MINI Cooper was chosen by our expert independent judging panel. The judges voted it into number one place thanks to a combination of keen pricing, sensible running costs and an engagingly entertaining drive.
It’s the reputation for involving dynamics that will get many company car driver’s attention, with the three-door model being famed for its go-kart-like handling. The added practicality of those extra rear doors, combined with a slight stretch to the wheelbase adds extra rear space for passengers, and luggage space that’s a competitive 278 litres.
None of that impacts the entertaining driving though, with the five-door using the same adjustable dynamics system – a twist of a dial switches the car from sensible eco mode, through comfort, and on to Sport for “ultimate go kart feel”.
Drivers will also be impressed by the lengthy list of standard equipment. This includes keyless entry and start, USB audio interface and, essentially, Bluetooth connectivity.
MINI Connected technology brings the latest information, apps and music ensuring drivers are always up-to-date when driving.
There’s also a virtually unlimited number of personalisation options, ensuring that you’ll rarely see another Cooper looking the same.
Business owners will be pleased to see a digital alertness assistant included in the optional navigation system. The software continuously analyses how the vehicle is being driven, with anyone covering long distances or showing some drowsy behaviour being encouraged to take a break from the road. Emergency Call is also offered as standard across the range; in the event of an accident, this system sends out a distress call, plus key information about location, direction of travel and number of airbags activated.
That’s a duty of care box ticked but, more than that, is technology that makes a real difference to safety.
Economy is also strong, thanks to Minimalism – MINI’s take on BMW’s EfficientDynamics programme. Tweaks to the engine management system result in an official economy figure – measured under the latest, more stringent WLTP programme – of 72.4mpg for the diesel, with CO2 emissions being a BIK-friendly 103g/km. That results in a company car tax bill of just over £949 a year for a 20% taxpayer.
Company car drivers preferring a petrol version of the MINI Cooper will find the fuel economy is still an economical 52.3mpg, while CO2 emissions are 123g/km. However, there’s even better news on the company car tax front: a 20% tax payer will only pay £891 in benefit in kind per year.
SMEs will also be pleased by leasing offers from MINI starting at just £279 per month with only one month’s rental required in advance. with a £930 deposit, while strong residuals result in competitive leasing options.
MINI Select PCP offers also start at £279 a month with only £279 deposit required.
So now you understand why the MINI is such a winner for company car drivers – economical to run, inexpensive to acquire, and very good on company car tax. No wonder the judges voted it a company car winner.
