IN the early part of the 21st century, it was pretty much all go at MINI as the car maker prepared to introduce a raft of new models.

And just weeks after the 2010 launch of the new Countryman crossover, the marque also had a brand new 2.0-litre diesel engine ready to pump fire throughout their range.

Firstly, the engine just happened to be the largest power plant ever to be honed into any MINI model.

Producing 143bhp at 4,000 revs, it pumped out almost 28 per cent more power than the standard Cooper D and a massive 60 per cent above the entry-level One D.

With a mighty figure of 305Nm or 225lb/ft of torque on tap from between 1,750 to 2,700rpm - again the highest torque value of any MINI engine up to then, including those within the John Cooper Works range - it made sure the Cooper SD was an extreme performer, powering the hatchback to a top speed of 134mph with a 0-62mph acceleration time of 8.1 seconds.

The unit featured a lightweight all-aluminium crankcase, while a powerful turbocharger with variable intake geometry was controlled by the engine management system to deliver mega grunt at all engine speeds.

And all this power didn't come at the expense of fuel consumption, for MINI added what they called Minimalism technology throughout the new SD range.

The system included brake energy generation, automatic start/stop, gear shift indicator and electric power steering.

The end result was a revelation. While the Cooper SD Hatch delivered fabulous performance while retaining its renowned road holding abilities, it sipped fuel at the rate of 65.7mpg on the combined cycle, emitting just 114 grams of CO2 per kilometre into the bargain.

All Cooper SD models were equipped with a new lightweight six-speed manual gearbox which offered well-matched ratios and a precise, short lever action.

An optional six-speed automatic gearbox was also available and its nifty shift paddles behind the steering wheel added a sporty characteristic more involved drivers grew to love.

The diesel also featured torque steer management software which electronically mimicked a limited slip differential.

Echoing the distinctive style of the Mini Cooper S, all SD models display a front apron with an extra large air intake and the familiar air scoop on the bonnet, while at the rear, each SD model sported twin exhaust tailpipes exiting in the centre of the rear apron and an eye-catching roof spoiler.

Also in traditional Cooper S style, the side indicator surrounds carry the SD motif.

Used car buyers can also look out for models featuring a Sports Pack closely aligned to John Coopper Works models which enhanced the car's style and offered even more dynamic driving responses.

As a great used supermini, a 2010 60-plate two-litre diesel Cooper S will cost between £6,595 and £9,375 depending on overall condition and mileage.

Move on a year to a 61-plate example and prices will rise to between £7,625 and £10,415, while a 2012 car on a 62 plate will be around the £8,855 to £11,710 price range.

Find a used model fitted with a Sport Pack and you're looking to have to pay roughly an extra £1,000, while an automatic version will add around £500 to the price.

As a great used supermini, a 2011 11-plate two-litre Cooper SD will cost between £7,425 and £10,110 depending on overall condition and mileage.

Move on a year to a 12-plate example and prices will rise to between £8,620 and £11,375, while a 2013 car on a 13 plate will be around the £9,855 to £12,655 price range.

Find a used model fitted with a Sport Pack and you're looking to have to pay roughly an extra £1,000, while an automatic version will add around £500 to the price.