The most powerful model, the sporty John Cooper Works version debuts in the all-new range with a starting price of $47,400 (manual) and $49,950 (automatic).
With 170kW/320Nm from the turbocharged four-cylinder (10 per-cent more power and 23 per-cent more torque than the previous model), zero to 100km/h takes just 6.1 seconds with the automatic transmission.
Extra good news is fuel consumption is down by 20 per-cent to 5.7l/100kms.
Underneath is the all-new Mini chassis but the John Cooper Works version boasts sports suspension with Dynamic Damper Control and Dynamic Stability Control with Dynamic Traction Control and an electronic differential lock.
There’s also Brembo brakes and 18-inch alloy wheels.
Styling sees LED headlights and inside are John Cooper Works sports seats and a head-up display.
