MINI Hatch

In comparison with other, more conventional superminis the Mini looks like a more premium option thanks to its unique sense of style and perceived quality. The huge range of customisation options and packs to personalise the look of the car have always been a big part of Mini ownership, too, but can hide the fact you need to spend extra to bring it up to the standards of more mainstream rivals in terms of equipment. The monthly finance costs on a mid-range Cooper Sport look competitive with equivalent Polo and Ford Fiesta models, but when you factor in the Volkswagen and Ford both have standard navigation but you have to pay extra for kit like this on the Mini it begins to look more expensive.

In terms of day to day running costs the all-petrol engine range looks pretty good, though most rivals these days offer mild hybrid technology for improved efficiency, while the Toyota Yaris and Renault Clio offer full hybrid options. The three-door hatch is, of course, available in pure electric form as a standalone model and could work out a lot cheaper to run. Read our dedicated review and see Rory Reid’s video roadtest here.