Join the Mini Club... man

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Clever design pushes aside function in some places. The radio controls are tricky to figure out, but they look great. The bunch of buttons under the speedometer are arranged in the shape of the winged Mini logo. But since that only allows for a single knob, the volume is set far down and away from the tuning knob and other controls.

The Mini is unapologetic about its size - after all, that's the whole point - so there's little attempt to make the interior feel roomy. Narrow window glass keeps you constantly aware that you are in a confined space. Handsome body-colored leather armrests, when not being used as armrests, become arm obstacles, instead.

NEXT: Drive time