The new Mini JCW model launched this week appears to assume that the non-believers outnumber the hardcore faithful.
The supercharger is gone, replaced by a quieter, more fuel-efficient and more refined turbocharged engine that puts out a solitary kilowatt more power, but between 15Nm and 30Nm of extra torque, or pulling power.
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The new engine is better to drive in everyday situations as well. The power is delivered almost 1000rpm lower, while maximum torque kicks in at a low 1850rpm, compared with 4500rpm in the supercharged unit.
That means strong, smooth acceleration off the mark, combined with plenty of grunt in the mid-range.
The car pulls strongly through all the gears, making for quick, fuss-free overtaking. A sport button on the dash makes the throttle setting more aggressive and loads up the steering for a meatier feel at high speeds.
Other than that initial imperfection, the Mini is incredibly easy to drive quickly through a set of tight, twisting bends.
The steering is well weighted and gives plenty of feedback, while the Mini is eager to change direction quickly, providing plenty of grip through corners and good traction out of them.
Part of our drive program involved some hot laps around the tight and twisty Broadford circuit just outside Melbourne and the Mini really shone in this environment.
But overall, the Mini has plenty to recommend it.
It performs better, uses less fuel, looks fantastic and is better value than the model that preceded it. If only it sounded a little more raw and sporty.
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