The new MINI remains the hatchback market leader but it now has a couple of new rivals that are aiming to give it a run for its money and for the first time since BMW reincarnated this British classic, the MINI seems to have a fight on its hands for market share at a time where sales are harder to come by.
Amongst the new competitors are Alfa Romeo, who have entered the hatchback market with the new Mito - a car inspired by the aesthetics of the 8C Competizione concept car but with the same engine and components used in the Fiat Grande Punto, which in itself has sold more than a million units since it entered the market in 2006.
Then there is the Fiat 500, similar to the new MINI in that Fiat have dragged the old 60's classic into the 21st century with all the mod cons and accessorising capabilities. The 500 is much smaller than the MINI, so that is where the similarities end really, but nonetheless, it is evident that the Italians are certainly determined to try and eat some of the market share.
Then you have the revamped Vauxhall Corsa that has received favourable reviews, particularly glowing references for the performance of the chassis.
And the new Fiesta is a real head turner and is also set to feature heavily in the awards stakes.
But when it comes down to it, none of these cars live up to the MINI, especially in terms of performance and driveability. None of its rivals can handle windy roads with so much pleasure and control to the driver as the world's favourite hot hatch.
A new MINI may be more expensive than its rivals but that should not be perceived as a totally negative factor as no car depreciates less. Of course the cheaper hatchback will suit many drivers, but a few years down the line, when it comes to sell the car or part exchange it, the valuation will be considerably lower than that of the iconic hatchback with similar mileage and similar age.
The MINI just has that cheeky, stylish sex appeal that all different types of people adore - men, women, young or old, and does not have a target audience unlike its rivals and due to the engineering expertise of BMW, the reliability and driveability remain second to none. It may be more expensive, but in terms of depreciation, driveability and style stakes, you most certainly get what you pay for with a new MINI.
Author Resource:-
Thomas Pretty is motoring journalist with many years of experience testing and writing about all manner of vehicles. Find out more about the new MINI at http://www.coopermini.co.uk/
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