Most big automakers have one brand where they can experiment and have a bit of fun.

For BMW, that brand is MINI. In contrast to the luxurious and top-of-the-line offerings from the main brand, the MINI lineup is the definition of a niche product. The brand offers mostly very small vehicles, with different shapes and paint jobs. They are not expected to be huge sellers, just a small part of the company’s overall bottom line.

Still, you do want to have enough sales to justify your effort, so the MINI lineup is constantly changing, adding different versions to attract new clientele.

I recently tested out one of the MINI models -- a 2015 MINI Cooper S Hardtop 4-door -- and I’m back with a full report on my experience on my time in this little ride.