THIS is the 1499 GT, the latest special edition to join the MINI line-up which celebrates the brand's heritage with a nod to one of the best known sporty classic Minis of all time, the 1275 GT from 1969.

The original was one of the most affordable performance cars of its day and the new GT offers more of the same but with the latest in automotive engineering and high-tech kit.

The 1275 GT badging reflected the increased engine capacity over the standard 998cc Mini and the all-new MINI 1499 GT treads a similar path for 2017.

With 102bhp on tap and 0-60mph in 10.1 seconds through twin power turbo three-cylinder engine.

Anyone opting for the new model, which is priced at £16,990, should get in quick, as the 1499 GT will be built in a limited production run of just 1,499 cars between November and February 2018, and is sure to be in high demand.

As an incentive to attract younger buyers, MINI is also offering one year's free insurance on the new model, subject to status.

There will be a choice of two colours, pepper white or midnight black. In midnight black, the car gets distinctive gold 1499 GT side stripes akin to the decals used on the original 1275 GT.

Pepper white models feature the same distinctive graphics, but in black.

The door mirrors are also finsished in either gold or black Union Jack patterns.

Additional features include the MINI John Cooper Works sport pack, featuring 17-in alloy wheels, dark tinted windows and white indicator lenses.

The styling pack includes distinctive John Cooper Works front and rear bumpers, side skirts, a split level spoiler and John Cooper Works door entry plates.

Inside, the GT features sports seats, JCW steering wheel in perforated leather with multi-function controls, cruise control, a Visual Boost radio with MINI smartphone compatibility and piano black interior trim, along with carbon black interior details and an Anthracite headlining.

A sports suspension completes the MINI 1499 GT package, which also includes all of the standard equipment found on the MINI One hatch.

This includes features such as independent rear suspension, a six-speed manual gearbox with sports-car inspired rev matching technology, air conditioning and all-round disc brakes.