Overview & Reviews

In 1959, a groundbreaking new, boxy subcompact coupe emerged in England using a transverse-mounted engine and a space efficient front-wheel-drive layout. Within its tiny footprint it provided a surprising amount of usable space for people and packages. Because it was affordable, stylish, fun to drive and easy to park anywhere, the British Mini and sportier Mini Cooper quickly achieved icon status around the world -- including the U.S., where it sold as a brief counter-culture favorite during the 1960s.

After a lengthy break, the Mini Cooper returned to our shores in 2002 under BMW's direction to resurrect the legend. Through the course of three generations, new Minis have provided a uniquely sporting blend of classic British mini-car heritage and charm with precise German engineering and construction. New or used, however, you will find that a Cooper's price can rise very quickly if it has a lot of optional equipment installed. Then again, that abundance of available features is what makes a Mini a Mini. It's a pleasant dilemma to be faced with as no matter how you equip one, a Cooper hatchback or convertible is one of the most satisfying and fun subcompacts for the price.

Current Mini Cooper
The front-wheel-drive Mini Cooper is available in two-door hatchback and convertible body styles, both of which seat four people. The 2014 model year marks a fully redesigned, third generation of the hatchback. It's slightly larger and roomier than before and also features a pair of new engines. The convertible lags behind and is essentially carried over from last year.

The Mini Cooper hatchback comes with a turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine good for 134 horsepower. The Cooper S hatchback boasts a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 189 hp. A six-speed manual transmission is standard and a six-speed automatic is optional for both models. With any combination, fuel economy is very good.

The Cooper convertible, being of the previous generation, has a 121-hp, 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine. The Cooper S convertible comes with a turbocharged 1.6-liter rated at 181 hp. There's also a John Cooper Works convertible with a higher-performance version of the turbo 1.6-liter producing 208 hp. Transmission choices are the same as for the hatchback. Fuel economy is worse with the base engine, but about the same with the S.

The Mini Cooper manages to please a wide variety of drivers, from penny-wise to thrill-seeking. Thanks to its two body styles, comprehensive options and bold interior and exterior design options, there is a seemingly infinite combination of personalized Minis. Each model -- Cooper, Cooper S and John Cooper Works (JCW) --- is essentially defined by the engine that powers it and the size of its wheels. However, slight variations in equipment exist.

All Mini Cooper hatchbacks are equipped with air-conditioning, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity and iPod integration. The S hatchback is further outfitted with a more powerful engine, larger wheels, foglights and sport seats. There is an abundance of options that vary according to body style and trim level, but include various wheels, sport-tuned and/or adjustable suspension, a rearview camera, an automated parking system, a dual-pane sunroof, parking sensors, cloth or leather upholstery, a navigation system, smartphone app integration, automatic climate control, heated front seats, keyless ignition and entry and a premium Harman Kardon audio system.

The Cooper convertible is equipped similarly to the Cooper hatchback and adds a full power convertible top that includes a partial-open "sunroof" feature. The Cooper S convertible likewise adds performance-themed perks similar to those of the Cooper S hatchback. The John Cooper Works convertible includes an even more powerful turbo engine, upgraded Brembo brakes and an aerodynamic body kit. An even firmer suspension can also be fitted to the John Cooper Works.

In reviews of the redesigned Mini Cooper and Cooper S hatchbacks, we found the model's larger and more sensibly designed interior to be a noticeable improvement. Though its rear seat is still small, occupants gain almost an inch of legroom and a full 3 inches of shoulder room. Luggage and cargo room also grow noticeably. As before, the hatchback has an engaging personality thanks to its nimble handling and quick performance. The trade-off is still a firm ride and occasionally raucous cabin environment, but overall, the essential elements that gave the Mini its mojo from the get-go are still present and well accounted for.

The yet-to-evolve Cooper convertibles are still worthwhile for all the reasons we liked them in the first place: distinctive styling, peppy performance and the remarkably useful "sunroof in a convertible" full-power soft top. Also, the convertible is the only way to get the most powerful John Cooper Works engine in 2014. On the other hand, the drop top retains the traditional, pie-sized center-mounted speedometer and less sensible control layout. The backseat is also very small and rearward visibility is poor.

Used Mini Cooper Models
The Mini Cooper hatchback's second generation spanned from model year 2007-'13. For the Cooper convertible, Mini offered it starting in 2009 up to the present. This second-generation hatchback and convertible were available as a base Cooper, turbocharged Cooper S and, starting for 2009, the high-output turbocharged Cooper John Cooper Works (JCW).

The goal in this redesign was an evolutionary one, as befitting an icon. Though scarcely looking different from the first-generation model, the Mini Cooper's mechanicals were updated and many shortcomings were addressed. Notably, the ride was improved, build quality strengthened, cabin noise quelled, the steering effort at low speeds was lightened and all-new engines boasted more refinement and much better fuel economy.

Originally, the Cooper came with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder that produced 118 hp. The Cooper S featured a turbocharged version of the same engine that produced 172 hp. JCW versions were rated at 208 hp. For 2011, the base Cooper's output rose to 121 hp and the turbocharged S to 181 hp. A six-speed manual transmission was standard and a six-speed automatic was available (except on the JCW until 2013).

Base models were well equipped with a selectable Sport setting for steering and accelerator response, full power accessories with auto up/down windows (after '08), air-conditioning, leatherette premium vinyl upholstery, multicolor mood lighting, a tilt-and-telescoping leather-wrapped steering wheel, a trip computer and a six-speaker stereo with a CD player and auxiliary audio jack. The Cooper S added a turbocharged engine, firmer suspension, sport seats and foglights. Base and S convertibles were outfitted similarly.

Naturally, a wealth of optional features were available. Highlights included adaptive xenon headlights, automatic climate control, heated front seats, keyless ignition and entry, a Harman Kardon surround-sound audio system, Bluetooth phone connectivity and an iPod interface. Other options include different wheels, parking sensors, cloth or leather upholstery, a navigation system and a multitude of different interior trims and materials. As has been the case since the Cooper's debut, a multitude of dealer-installed features were additionally available.

In reviews of the time, we praised this Mini's spirited handling, thrifty fuel economy and excellent all-around performance in the Cooper S and JCW versions. Even the base Cooper, though, was still fun to drive. Downsides included a stiff and noisy ride, the car's very small backseat and illogical control layouts. The optional navigation system in particular wasn't especially user-friendly and hampered audio control.

There were other changes throughout this generation that shoppers of used Minis should be aware of. Bluetooth connection wasn't made standard across the line until 2013, but was optional from 2008 on. Prior to 2010, cruise control and a multi-function steering wheel were optional. And for 2007 and '08, stability control was an option. Should you see the names "Mini Camden" or "Mini Mayfair" in a used ad, these were a pair of special editions for 2010 that packaged some popular options with unique trim pieces, colors and a kitschy "Mission Control" system that featured a cast of in-car voices that responded to certain vehicle functions.

Prior to all of this, Mini sold the first generation of the modern Mini Cooper hatchback from 2002-'06. If you're looking for a Cooper Convertible from this era, they were sold from 2005-'08, while a 207-hp John Cooper Works edition arrived for 2005.

Those interested in this generation should be aware of some of the key differences between it and the current car. For starters, the standard Cooper had just 115 hp and wasn't refined so we wouldn't recommend it if you can avoid it. Secondly, Cooper S models were then supercharged (rather than today's turbocharged cars) and we'd recommend these, as they weighed in with a more forceful 163 ponies (or 168 for '05 on). Transmissions are also important to note. The Cooper came standard with a five-speed manual, while an optional continuously variable automatic did the car no favors. The Cooper S came standard with a six-speed manual, and starting in '05, a six-speed automatic with paddle shifters was optional.

Expect lively handling from either model, but be aware that the suspension setup of the Cooper S -- though enthusiasts will love it -- is even stiffer than the current model's. We would avoid those cars with wheels bigger than 16 inches. This Cooper also had much stiffer steering at slower speeds, but many have found it far more communicative and indicative of a go-kart than the current electric power steering.

Inside, this Cooper's various controls were much simpler and easier to use, but the cabin wasn't screwed together well -- almost every car suffers from frequent squeaks and rattles. While taller drivers will find plenty of leg room, there was no telescoping steering wheel available. The seats were also less comfortable.

Detail improvements and color changes carried the Mini Cooper through its first few years, so even early examples look up to date and can make particularly fine used car values. To keep things fresh and perky in 2005, Mini updated the Cooper's front and rear fascias, though it wasn't so significant that many should notice or care. More important to note are the addition of features for '04, like a more comfortable three-spoke steering wheel (versus the more classic two-spoke) and a digital speedometer mounted in the tachometer.

User Reviews:

• 

  Mini Cooper S - 2004 Mini Cooper
  By SeansMini - November 23 - 2:00 am

  The Mini Cooper S in my opinion is the best auto in the $20K range for those who like performance. The fact that the S only comes with a manual transmission and that they felt the need to tweak the suspension on the firm side despite its go-kart proportions tells you that this car means business. Of course the build quality is typical of what you would expect from BMW. For those who want performance yet cant afford a true sports car should certainly check out the MINI Cooper S. I personally see it as a stepping stone to my future M3.

• 

  Bddest MINI - 2004 Mini Cooper
  By Graeflded - November 23 - 2:00 am

  I had been watching with great anticipation the BMW development of the Mini. I brought my Cooper S last year, and it has met all of my expectations! The performance is excellent, and the handling on mountain roads makes it pure fun to drive. The styling carries on the Mini tradition with an agressive stance and it gets plenty of looks. But the best thing is the pleasure I get driving it and the waves I get from other drivers as I zip through traffic, or just cruise up the coast.

• 

  Great Car - 2002 Mini Cooper
  By Eric F - November 22 - 10:00 am

  Its kewl, and its fast, the styling rocks, and the chicks dig it.

• 

  cooper s - 2002 Mini Cooper
  By thechandler81 - November 22 - 10:00 am

  I have put 6k miles on my cooper s, and have only minor complaints to go with unlimited praise. The cupholders in front are usless except for a can of soda, the sunroof could use a better sunshade, the power is good, handling its excellent and simply a blast to drive

• 

  FUN, FUN, FUN - 2002 Mini Cooper
  By crum - November 22 - 10:00 am

  Mini is everything I anticipated. BMW quality at half the price of a 3 series. Most fun I have ever had driving a car and also a real head turner.

• 

  my MINI review - 2006 Mini Cooper
  By rubugd - November 21 - 6:23 pm

  I just bought my MINI four days ago. I hate not being in it. Even though it is still too cold, I have been sporting the top down with the heater blasting. This little car has some attitude and speed. I love it!

• 

  Best Buying experience & Car ever - 2005 Mini Cooper
  By TJ - November 15 - 10:10 am

  I purchased my MINI Cooper "S", in Nov. 2004. This was simply the most awesome blend of pure fun Ive ever had. The car is Fast, Fun, SAFE & does not depreciate like other cars...Why would it? I paid MSRP, and so did everyone else! It is a limited production car unlike Toyota, Nissan, Honda & the others... (Ill never owe more than the car is worth.). The Sales staff at my dealer (Checkered Flag) are simply the most well trained & educated crew Ive ever dealt with. Other dealers should take a lesson! This is the way to sell & service the customer. If you have not driven a MINI "S" yet you need to, its everything you would expect BMW to manufacture!!! Quality!!!

• 

  This is one fun car! - 2003 Mini Cooper
  By DavidCX - November 4 - 10:00 am

  Its not the fastest car out there, but it certainly one of the most fun to drive! It handles better than any car Ive ever driven in stock form. You find yourself taking lots of detours just to get on a windy road rather than a straight on. Could use a little more power though, especially low end torque. Unfortunately, the dealers are only getting a very limited supply of JCW kits. Some people complain about the noise and harsh ride of the 17" wheels w/ runflats, but I dont think its that bad.

• 

  Year Old MINI - 2003 Mini Cooper
  By bmwnutty - November 4 - 10:00 am

  This was a very early US MINI, delivered the first day they were available for sale, but it has been absolutely flawless. It is our commuter car so it has seen primarily highway mileage, but has had no warranty claims and has needed nothing but oil changes. Quality is excellent; would definetly buy another one.

• 

  2004 MINI Cooper S - 2004 Mini Cooper
  By skirt - November 2 - 12:20 am

  I am a car nut and have driven many cars. The MINI Cooper S is the most fun car that I have ever driven by far. I love the handling, fit & finish, styling, & performance. The Harmon Kardon stereo rocks!