New Car Buyer’s Guide: MINI

Ollie Barstow
Ollie BarstowAutomotive Correspondent
MINI Range 2026
MINI Range 2026

The MINI hardly needs any introduction, no matter where you are in the world… few feats of design are more recognisable than the British-built hatchback.

And we’re not just talking about the original, either.

In fact, it is a true testament to the faithful modern-day reimagining that even the wildly successful, huge-selling reboot of 2001 stands proud alongside its ancestor as an icon of engineering.

When the first MINI was revealed back in 1959, it was a direct response to the Suez fuel crisis that sharpened the demand for smaller, more affordable and more frugal cars.

It was more than that though, it’s delightful styling, pin-sharp handling and surprising versatility for its size turning it into arguably the most-loved car ever produced.

When BMW set about relaunching the brand in 2001, what could have easily been an insurmountable task has instead been a riotous success, the latest MINI getting a thoroughly contemporary overhaul while retaining the pure essence of what made the OG so endearing.

Today, the MINI isn’t just ‘the MINI’… it’s a whole family that not only comprises the classic three-door Cooper, but now includes a more practical five-door, the more flexible Aceman, the desirable Cooper Convertible and rugged Countryman and even electric options.

It’s time to check out the 2026 MINI range at Vertu

Why Choose a New MINI?

  • A True British Icon – Name a more iconic British institution than the MINI… the original was a motoring revolutionary, and its legacy remains very much evident in this new era
  • Unmistakably Chic – If the original was a revolution, the MINI of today is a faithful evolution of that spirit with instantly recognisable styling and a cheeky character
  • Electric & Fun – Famous for its go-kart like handling, the MINI remains one of the finest driver’s cars on the road, while today’s generation even includes electric power
  • Meet the MINI Family – What was once the classic MINI three-door hatchback is now a diverse family that includes a five-door MINI Cooper, the more practical MINI Aceman and the go-anywhere MINI Countryman off-roader
  • Tailored to You – It’s not a MINI if it’s not your MINI, thanks to a dizzying array of customisable features that make it personal to you and you only
  • Built in Britain – MINI has maintained its UK base in Oxford, where the model has been built continuously since 2001

Popular MINI Models in the UK

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MINI Cooper

One of the true pleasures of the current day MINI Cooper is how it has continued to stay as true to the original model, even as the automotive landscape has changed beyond recognition around it.

That’s not to say the MINI hasn’t gone with the times – a glance at the models below proves that – but the Cooper keeps the entire brand rooted in its instantly recognisable origins.

It’s still a model that does the hard sell with its fabulous design. Nips and tucks notwithstanding over the years, the MINI’s circular headlamps, squat wheel-at-each-corner profile, lid-like roof and chunky proportions still look cool after all this time, not least once you’ve raided the options list to customise it as your own.

Moreover, the MINI remains a driver’s car at heart with sporty, agile handling making it as convenient in the city streets as it is fun on the open road.

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The most significant changes over the years have come inside where the ‘dinner plate’ style central dial and infotainment screen is peppered with funky graphics, the attention to detail with the fabrics is exquisite and the quality superb.

Under the skin, there is the choice of economical or fiery petrol engines, plus cost-efficient 40.7kWh or 52kWh battery electric models. Head for the flagship John Cooper Works flagship and you can choose between a 228bhp petrol engine or a rapid 254bhp electric version.

Better yet, the MINI Cooper is now available in either three or five-door body styles, the latter providing useful flexibility to lean closer to a family-friendly car.

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MINI Cooper Convertible

For those who really want to make a statement, the MINI Cooper Convertible is still one of the most desirable cars you can buy today.

The Convertible retains all the excellent traits of its hatchback sibling – namely it’s agile chassis, upmarket interior and peppy engines – but transforms it into a stylish, head-turning drop-top.

Perfect for those who want all the fun of a sporty, exhilarating hot hatch but with the thrill of ‘wind-in-your-hair’ motoring.

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MINI Aceman

The most recent addition to the MINI family, the MINI Aceman leans into the current trend for small electric SUVs but gives the formula an unmistakable twist symptomatic of the brand.

While it borrows styling cues from the Cooper, the Aceman design is spun into a contemporary five-door shape with a broader shoulder line and a taller profile, giving it a muscular appearance.

Inside, the Aceman benefits from the same premium outlay as the Cooper, with excellent quality and an attractive, yet ergonomic cabin.

Three battery options are available with the 42.5kWh and 54.2kWh options allowing for between 192 and 252-miles of range, while the sporty John Cooper Works boasts a roaring 254bhp.

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MINI Countryman

While the notion of an off-roading MINI might have seemed unfathomable once upon a time, the MINI Countryman is proof the appeal of the small hatchback can be remixed in a variety of ways.

With a chunky, utilitarian design that is brimming with fun detailing, the Countryman commands a surprising amount of road presence without losing the cheeky spirit of its muse.

The larger profile gives way to a practical cabin with plenty of head and legroom for five people, plus a sizeable 460-litre boot.

It’s not all for show either with the Countryman coming with ALL4 four-wheel drive that will shame many off roaders when heading into the rough stuff.

Recent Awards and Recognition

MINI Cooper – Car of the Year 2024 (The Sun), Best EV Supermini (Top Gear), Best Used City Car 2024 (Auto Express)

MINI Convertible – Best Used Convertible 2025 (Auto Express)

New MINI Cars at Vertu

With hundreds of new MINI cars in stock across our nationwide network of MINI dealerships, your next MINI is at Vertu.

We can support with MINI service plans and MINI servicing & MOTs, so you and your MINI can keep driving for many miles to come.

Pop into your local Vertu MINI dealership and explore our selection of high-quality cars, chat to our friendly staff, or take a test drive.