Mini One First :: New base model 1.2-litre detailed ahead of possible local launch

In Europe, the newly announced Mini One First will be positioned as the most affordable model in the range, undercutting the previously revealed Mini One with a more basic level of specification and coming powered by 1.2-litre three-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine with just 55kW of power and 150Nm of torque from 1400rpm. When the first-generation 'new Mini' launched in the early 2000s, its 1.6-litre engine produced 85kW.

Mini says the new One First will hit 100km/h from standstill in a leisurely 12.8 seconds, but the payoff is fuel consumption of between 5.0 and 5.2 litres per 100km.

The Mini One that sits above the One First is powered by the same 1.2-litre turbo triple but produces 75kW and 180Nm. In comparison, the standard Mini Cooper has a 1.5-litre three-cylinder turbo with 100kW and 230Nm.

Mini Australia general manager of corporate communications Lenore Fletcher told CarAdvice that the brand is currently looking into the possibility of offering the Mini One models - but if the company does decide to go ahead with offering one or both of the cheaper entry models, that it wouldn't be in the near future. We'd suspect the 75kW variant is the most likely option.

The brand offered the previous-generation Mini Ray, which was essentially the same as the One sold in Europe. That car brought with it a significant discount in terms of entry price, positioned at $25,800. Given the BMW-owned brand's more aggressive pricing strategy for the new-generation model (starting from $26,650), it's expected that the One models could be priced below $25,000.

*Mini One pictured.