New Mini Mini Unveiled at last this week’s Geneva Motor Show

The Mini Rocketman is a three-door hatchback that is about a foot shorter than the current model. BMW has gone back to basics with this much smaller model.

The Mini Rocketman emulates the original model released in 1959. Its makers say it can still comfortably accommodate a driver and two passengers – and a fourth adult on short journeys.

The three-cylinder engine will be able to produce a remarkable 94 miles to the gallon with CO2 emissions low enough to exempt it from road tax and the London congestion charge.

In a nod to its British heritage the Rocketman has a panoramic glass roof etched with the Union flag. There is also a throwback to the original Mini with double-hinge door joints, while the tailgate splits to help with luggage.The first British Leyland Mini, costing £497 and designed by Sir Alec Issigonis, was an instant hit and 5.3million were produced from 1959 to 2000.

BMW took over from Rover and released its version of the car, Mini One, in 2001.

Despite concerns about its 12ft 2in length, more than two million have been sold globally.

The Mini was first released in 1959 and was an instant hit with 5.3million produced until the year 2000

The original model was 10ft long and the Rocketman will measure 11ft 3in.

When it is released in 2013, it will be the seventh in the Mini range. The standard Mini One, the Cabriolet, the Clubman estate and the Countryman off-roader will be joined by a coupe this year and a roadster next year.

What do you think of the new smaller mini?