It can be configured to show nav and media info, too, but we’d like to see another update to make life easier. At the moment, when you use the indicators, green arrows flash up on either side of the main display, but they’re difficult to see. If these were repeated in the head-up display, then it would be clearer when they were in use.
Head-to-head
On the road
The Fabia 130 has similar performance to the vRS that was discontinued a decade ago, but while it feels quick, there isn’t much drama. Side-by-side it’s obvious that the Fabia is a soft car with stiffer damping, while the MINI has a stiff chassis from the outset. The Cooper S follows the contours of the road, but the damping is good, while cornering grip is superb and the 2.0-litre turbo petrol delivers strong performance.
Tech highlights
To give the Fabia 130 a sportier look, it’s been lowered by 15mm, has black detailing, 18-inch wheels and comes with traction control that can be switched off completely. The Cooper S offers different drive modes via the Experiences toggle on the dash, while an L drive setting delivers sharper throttle response. You can’t take manual control of the MINI’s gearbox – at least the Fabia has paddleshifters.
Price and running
For £3,000 extra over a Fabia Monte Carlo, the 130 gets more power and a sportier look, while fuel economy in the 40-50mpg range should be achievable in everyday driving. You don’t need to spend on options to make the MINI fun, but you could easily add another £10,000 to the price. The Cooper S’s more powerful petrol engine was always going to be thirstier than the Fabia’s – we saw around 35mpg from it.
Practicality
There’s no contest here, because the Fabia is arguably the most practical supermini currently on sale. A big boot and decent rear space put some compact hatches to shame.
