The result is as low as 4.3 litres/100km (65.7mpg) and just 114g/km of CO2, yet 0-100km/h in 8.1 seconds and a top speed of 215km/h. Prices range from €26,510 to €33,510.
A six-speed manual gearbox is standard - claimed to be the lightest of its kind. MINI will offer buyers a six-speed automatic too, with paddles behind the steering wheel for manual gearchanges.
Visually, the SD mimics the petrol-fuelled MINI Cooper S, with a bonnet scoop and low front bumper, a roof spoiler and centrally-exiting twin exhausts.
The new Cooper SD models make their world debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March.
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