Mini Diesel

The fuel efficient car uses a claimed 3.9L/100km, and also features what BMW call a minimalist package that includes an auto start/stop function (manual transmission only), brake energy regeneration and a shift point display to prompt the driver to make upshifts at the most economical time.

Powered by a 1.6-litre turbo-charged direct injection engine, it produces 80kW of power and a punchy 240Nm of torque between 1750 and 2000rpm. This is reached thanks to an 'overboost' which is activated by flooring the accelerator, giving an extra 20Nm of torque at short notice. The Mini Cooper D hardtop is identified by a power dome on the bonnet and a larger intake below the bumper.

The Mini D is now available priced from $33,750

Source: JUST CARS, July 2009, Collectors Issue #161