Mini 5 Door

We don't normally cover the addition of new variants to an established model range, but the five-door version of the latest, third generation Mini is an exception.

In terms of pure numbers, the new model is 161mm longer than the Hatch, at 3,982mm, and has a 72mm-longer wheelbase, at 2,567mm. Standing 1,425mm high makes it 11mm taller.

Both cars are the same from the nose to the A-pillar, with the gain in dimensions to facilitate space for rear-seat passengers and in the luggage area, which grows by 67 liters, to 278 liters.

The extra 89mm of rear overhang gives this new model proportions caught somewhere between a hatchback and a wagon - a reference to the latest Mini model line-up's rationalized approach, comprising the Hatch, 5 door and more conventional Clubman due next year.

A wheel-at-each-corner stance has long been a Mini signifier, but the third generation car's elongated nose has reduced that definition, and the proportions of the five-door model move even further away. However, although the longer tail appears to bring a little more balance the latest car's enlarged nose.

Inside, there's now space for three in the rear, with 72 millimetres more foot space and legroom, 15 millimetres more headroom and 61 millimetres more interior width at elbow height than in the three-door version. The rear door cards have a C-shaped detail that reflects those in the front.

Mini 5 door gallery >

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