2005 Mini Cooper Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.73/5 Average
256 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

The big news for the 2005 Mini Cooper is the arrival of the convertible in both regular and S flavors. Stylish as ever, the drop-top Mini seats four and still has a trunk big enough for a few bags. Other changes include slightly revised front and rear fascias and some reworked option choices. The vanity mirrors are no longer illuminated, a universal remote transmitter is now available and a leather-wrapped steering wheel is now standard. The S version gains 5 horsepower and 7 pound-feet of torque, as well as an external temperature display. Both the five- and six-speed manual transmissions feature shorter gearing this year to improve acceleration. A six-speed automatic transmission will become available on the S versions later in the model year.

Pros:
Cons:
  • Not enough horsepower in base model, questionable seat comfort, not much room for passengers and cargo, some low-grade interior materials.

User Reviews:

Showing 201 through 210 of 256.00
  • We love our Mini - 2005 Mini Cooper
    By -

    When I began searching for a convertible, most models were out of my price range. After looking at the Mini web site, I was able to design my own vehicle, with the options that I wanted, and still remained well within my budget. The handling is precise (15 inch wheels with Pirelli P3000 tires), the automatic transmission flawless, and in all the years of driving, this is the first automatic that I have owned where you cannot feel any up or downshifting. On a recent trip of over 1500 miles, my Mini convertible averaged just over 33 mpg on the highway. I would recommend to anyone interested in a convertible to give the Minis a test drive. There have been no mechanical issues to date.

  • mini cooper aka bmw garbage - 2005 Mini Cooper
    By -

    owned the car for 6 months,it was in the shop 8 times for problem with car almost stalling when air was on,bmw acknowledged there was a problem & didnt have any time when expected to have remedy,also had power steering replaced & the car had more rattles than a 1980s huyndai - bmw doesnt participate in the california arbitration for lemon law so traded it in on a new vw bettle before everyone figured out what a piece of crap the cars are.thank goodness they have a 3yr 36k mile warranty, youll need it

  • Best in Class - 2005 Mini Cooper
    By -

    I bought my Cooper with the cold weather, premium pack, and 5-speed transmission. It has the most amazing ride. Im a big guy and there is no issue with the cockpit. It is not he quickest vehicle around, but it is fast. This car is VERY stable. Its ride is a bit choppy on bumpy roards though. It goes where you point it, without any steering wheel torque at all. It redlines at over 6,000 rpm and the engine runs and runs. I have logged 20,000 miles on it so far this year. A glutton for performance, Ive ordered an 06 "S", with DSC, limited-slip, chrono, cold weather, and premium pack #1. As a side note, I rented one with an automatic and took it to Death Valley and the Mojave. I drove it VERY hard and actually beat-on it over 50 miles down the West Side Rd. I chuckle now, knowing just how well these cars are made.

  • My mini....NOT so good! - 2005 Mini Cooper
    By -

    My Mini has been in the shop more times than I can count! I have had problems with the computer since day 1! I have had many things replaced and its only 6 months old! I DO NOT recommend buying a MINI at all! My dealership has been great but the car....SUCKS! My locks have a mind of their own! It is in the shop as we speak waiting to see if it will be purchased back under the Oklahoma Lemon Law!

  • I will hate to ever sell this car - 2005 Mini Cooper
    By -

    This is the most fun I have ever had driving. Motoring in my MINI is a blast and everyone that sees the car and I am in earshot has something to say about it. "How cute is that" is one I hear often. I have upgraded a lot of features in the car but only because I intend to keep it until it dies. It is very small car but that is not a factor for me. Love it. SMC

  • Fun to drive when I can - 2005 Mini Cooper
    By -

    First off, this is a very fun car to drive. The wheels always sticks to the road and the supercharger helps with instant push on road. BMW has done a great job putting the car together but also failed horribly on some parts. German engineering is seen and felt every where, for better or for worse. (See Suggested Improvements)

  • I Love my cooper! - 2005 Mini Cooper
    By -

    This is the ideal car for a small family, for those tight on parking space or those that just love having a good time in a great car. Of all the cars i have owned (chevy,a mustang and a gran prix) this is by far the best i have ever had. I love my mini!

  • I LOVE MY MINI - 2005 Mini Cooper
    By -

    I have had my mini a less than a week and have 700 miles on it. That should tell you a little about how much fun it is to drive. This car is great.

  • Best Buying experience & Car ever - 2005 Mini Cooper
    By -

    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!!!

  • Best of British & German Heritage - 2005 Mini Cooper
    By -

    I have had both German (BMW, M-B, VW, Opel) and British (Morris, Jag, MG) cars in the past and know the good and bad traits of both. The MINI Cooper S combines the best of both of its parents into a gem. Tight handling, stiff ride, quick reflexes, very good fit and finish are reminiscent of my 1980s BMW 3-series and earlier M-Bs; style and a certain British stuffiness recalls my 1990s Jag XJ; a little bit of frumpiness in interior spaces reminds me of my 1950s Morris Minor. (Nothing about it reminds me of my 1960s Opel!)

Mini Cooper Reviews By Year:
Great Deals Near You
  • Loading cars...

Selected Edmunds.com visitor vehicle reviews

Edmunds.com Visitor Vehicle Ratings and Reviews are the property of Edmunds.com, and may not be reproduced or distributed without the consent of Edmunds.com. Edmunds© is a trademark of Edmunds.com, Inc. Edmunds.com, Inc. is not affiliated with this website or app.

Powered By Edmunds

× Estimated monthly payments based on 3.9% APR, 60 month financing, and 20% down payment. Tax, tags, title, administration fees, and license fees are not included in price or payment. Subject to approved buyer credit. Actual purchase terms may vary.

Payment calculations are sourced by EveryAuto.com and may not reflect actual dealer financing terms.

Send Us Feedback ×


Locating Vehicles In Your Area