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MINI Cooper D vs Audi A1 1.6 TDI Comparison Test

The new MINI brought along more than people expected. Sure, everyone wanted a new design and new engines but few people actually realized what BMW actually did with it when it was released (and is still doing).
Audi A1 vs MINI Cooper 1 photo
Photo: Screenshot from Youtube
You see, the new Hardtop is fitted with a whole new generation of engines that will be introduced on all cars made by BMW and MINI alike in the future. Known around the internet as the B-family of engines, these units are supposed to be cheaper to build, more efficient, refined and powerful at the same time. Sounds incredible, right?

Well, it’s actually true and most reviews agree that they confirm the expectations we had. A while back, we had the chance to experience the new B48 unit under the bonnet of a Cooper S model and we were impressed by its performance and refinement.

However, that’s not the only engine that’s new in the line-up. The diesel alternative is also fresh. And that’s the biggest catch, too. The new plants share a whole load of parts between them. According to BMW, up to 40 percent, making them cheaper to build.

They also have the same sizes and cylinder counts, going from 3 to 4 and 6 in a single engine, all of them line-up one behind the other.

Competition is fierce but slightly behind on its technology. The MINI Hardtop is basically rivaled by Audi’s A1 and that’s about it. In the premium segment, these two hot hatches will rule.

Things are not looking good for the Audi, though, at least in the inferior model range. Their diesel powerplant is rather old and its age is showing. Fitted with 1.6-liter 4-cylinder units capable of making up to 105 HP, these models are noisier and less refined compared to their Cooper counterparts.

What Car compared the two on all sides, from practicality and room in the back, to the engine refinement and highway road noise. Of course, both of them had their pros and cons, as one would expect.

The Audi A1 has a bigger boot and its interior seems a bit more premium but on the other hand, its standard equipment lacks even some of the most basic features you could possibly need. It’s also offering more feedback through the steering wheel but its clunky engine ruins the experience. Check out the conclusion they reach in the video below.

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