My Cooper is equipped with a new 6-speed automatic that includes a manual mode and paddle shifters on the steering wheel spokes. This transmission replaces the continuously-variable (CVT) unit that drove the previous version of the car and happened to be, I was told, awful. One thing that's certain is that the 2007 model consumes less fuel than the 2006: 7.8 and 5.9 L/100 km city/highway, as opposed to 9.0/6.3. I averaged 8.8 with a mix of city and highway driving. The engine requires super unleaded.

The transmission in 'D' mode isn't very cooperative, as it seems programmed to maximize fuel economy. It hesitates when downshifting and takes a lot of time to do so when we insist, and will upshift at the slightest chance it's got. However, the car is relatively silent on the highway because engine rpm is low; it's less noisy than the Cooper S that I drove last year.

The new 6-speed autobox was not meant for inspired driving.

In normal driving, no problem, but not when we're in a hurry. We must then push the shift lever to the left in 'DS' position; the gearbox then adopts a sportier character, and delays upshifts to keep the engine in its sweet spot. Obviously, this will affect fuel economy a bit.

During a photo and video shoot at the Sanair track (www.sanairracing.com) of a Suzuki GSX-R 1000 that we're testing for Moto123.com, we couldn't resist running a few laps with the Cooper and a Cooper S.

Obviously, the Cooper S was superior in acceleration and top speed on the circuit's straight, but curiously, we felt more confident in the base Cooper, less twitchy and more composed in curves. We were expecting the other way around, of course... Around town, the car is very manoeuvrable and the direct steering gives the impression we're piloting a go-kart, which makes it truly fun to drive. The brakes are ultra-powerful.

Chic cockpit
The quality of the materials in the cockpit is almost beyond reproach. With the red trim on the dashboard, the overall appearance is pleasing. I would've preferred cloth seats, but you can only get them with the Sport package. The leatherette is hot in the summer, but the seats are comfortable and supportive nonetheless. Unfortunately, a center armrest is part of a $750 option package.

The originality of the interior is only matched by its quality.