The new model was unveiled earlier this week at the brand’s plant in Oxford, England, with the Japanese version to be offered with three and four-cylinder petrol engines, as well as access to Facebook and Twitter and even its own Japanese navigation and infotainment system.

Speaking to news agency Headlineauto, Christopher Weil, MINI’s head of exterior design, said that despite its All-New billing, the MINI remains true to its roots although the focus has been on the hexagonal grille rather than the famous headlamps.

‘But much of the design is typical MINI,’ he said. ‘It has typical MINI landscaping which you can see from the bonnet and there is a little more sculpting along the sides to give the car a better stance on the road. You can also see the design cues from the original car with its short front and rear overhangs.’