Combined with its limited human space is limited cargo capacity. The trunk, or boot- reminiscent of the original Austin Mini, is dreadfully small. Folding

Folding the rear seatbacks down increases the MINI's cargo volume significantly. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

the rear seatbacks down increases the MINI's cargo volume significantly, but it's still no wagon any way you slice it.

I found capacity limitations in the MINI convertible a little frustrating to live with. The vehicle is clearly targeted at youthful, active urbanites. So where do the skis go? How does the bike rack attach and what about the white water kayak? There's no provision for installing a roof rack to the soft-top. On several occasions I stood my road-bike on its rear wheel behind the front passenger seat and let the frame and front wheel extend above the interior of the car like a NASA satellite dish; great on a sunny day, but otherwise impractical.

Extraneous accommodation issues aside, the MINI Cooper S possesses many fine automotive talents sure to please even the most jaded of commuters, starting with its gutsy powerplant and robust exhaust note. Listen carefully and the hiss of the supercharger is plainly audible at low

Accompanying a run to the 6,800 rpm redline is a Kujo-like growl from the centre-mounted twin exhaust tips. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

rpm levels, a device that gives the little mill plenty of low-end torque. Dip the right foot and the engine's punch firmly kicks-in as the tachometer needle swings past 2,500 on the dial. For such a small engine, it produces an astonishing powerband as wide and flat as the Prairies. Accompanying a run to the 6,800 rpm redline is a Kujo-like growl from the centre-mounted twin exhaust tips.

Making full use of the generous powerband in my Cooper S tester was a cinch thanks to its slick-shifting 6-speed manual gearbox. Throws were clear and direct, although not as well defined as in the Honda Accord Coupe I recently tested. The Cooper's clutch actuation was progressive, leading to smooth gear changes and engine engagements.