Mini has announced a new three-model line-up for the UK market, known as the Mini Classic range, writes David Duffy.

Expanding on the previous two-car line-up of Mini and Mini Cooper, the Mini Classic range includes the 9,495 Mini Seven, 9,895 Mini Cooper and the 10,895 Mini Cooper Sport. These will be the final versions of a car that laid down the rules of small car motoring 41 years ago.

The Mini Seven reflects the car's heritage, being influenced by the original 1959 model, while the Mini Cooper and Mini Cooper Sport celebrate the Mini's sportiness, and agility.

In European and world markets, a further 'luxury' variant is being launched called the Mini Knightsbridge. Less than 4,000 UK models are scheduled for build before production stops in July.

Designed as a tribute to the first Mini - the Austin Seven - the Mini Seven interior is reminiscent of the 1959 model featuring a revised seat design of multi-fluted cream fabric and red leather front cushion.

Similar in style to the 1959 seats, red PVC seat backs and head restraints complete the look. A black leather gearknob and handbrake grip come as standard as does a body-coloured fascia with a radio/cassette or optional single CD player matched to a 'Goodmans' twin speaker system.

Externally, the Classic Cooper is similar to the previous model, however the car's interior enjoys new black and silver cloth seats and head restraints set off by black leather seat sides and bolsters finished with black PVC piping. The black leather treatment is also applied to the gearknob, hand brake grip and steering wheel.

A body-coloured fascia is standard with a radio/cassette or optional single CD player matched to a 'Goodmans' twin speaker system.

The Mini Cooper Sport has been designed as the ultimate official sports Mini.

The interior features a unique seat design of black and nickel leather with matching head restraint facings and black PVC piping. The seat backs and borders are also trimmed in black PVC as are the door casings which are complemented by race-style alloy fittings.

A metallic finish fascia houses the radio/cassette or optional single CD player, which is coupled to a 'Goodmans' twin speaker system.

Story date: Wednesday 12 April

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