Nine ways you know you're driving a 2018 facelift Mini

It’s true we adore the original most of all and the fast ones in particular, but the new one (not so new now, at going on 17!) is a joy too, albeit in different ways.

It is also a car being constantly updated. So what’s new for 2018? 

It’s a refresh, not a remake, and comprises the expected updates… along with some typically wacky Mini ideas.

Here’s how you know you are in the latest model:

1. Never leave the kids behind again (or forget your luggage) by attaching new Mini Find Mate tags to them that can show their location on the car’s dashboard display.
2. See the Mini logo projected on to the ground from the driver’s side exterior mirror.
3. Go all jingoistic with a backlit Union flag motif on the dashboard (but only if you want it).
4. Personalise like never before with new design-your-own parts created on 3D printers and available to order online.
5. Dazzle with new grey, blue and orange body colours, plus new high-gloss piano black trim option.
6. Don’t dazzle with standard new LED lights with Matrix automatic dip.
7. Charge your mobile phone wirelessly by just leaving it in the cubby in the centre armrest.
8. Check the fuel level – or beep the horn, or lock the car – remotely from your mobile phone.
9. Drive the nuts off it with new seven-speed dual-clutch auto transmission and torquier new 1.5-litre three-pot engine.

Some of the things mentioned here are of course options. The changes apply to the main Mini trio: the three-door hatch, the five-door hatch, and the convertible in all their different forms from 101 to 228bhp. All versions are in the shops from 17 March 2018.