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:

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  2004 MINI Cooper Hatchback - Awesome - 2004 Mini Cooper
  By Jenny - January 7 - 1:53 pm

  The 2004 MINI Cooper Hatchback has been great for mountain driving. It has loads of power and is zippy around corners. It has great pick up as well. I have driven it on long road trips too. There is plenty of room for two people plus luggage. My four year old sits in her car seat in the back with lots of room. The warranty service is great too. Its the best I have ever had with a car. I highly reccomment this vehicle!

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  Great Car - 2004 Mini Cooper
  By billdcat - January 6 - 10:06 pm

  2004 Cooper S with 124000+ Miles. Only problem encountered was the stock tires. The car is used for work commute of 100 miles round trip per day in Mighigan. In rain and snow, stock tires did not hack it. The dealer has been great. The only maintenance so far has been service periods which for me clock in at about 23000 miles.

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  The New Mini - 2002 Mini Cooper
  By Neo - December 25 - 2:00 am

  Having previously owned a few BMWs and a SAAB SPG I can honestly say that this has got to be one the best handling cars ever seen here in the US. BMW has outdone itself. My expectations were high and they were far exceeded. You wont be disappointed!

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  Yes, Its Cute - 2007 Mini Cooper
  By hippiechick - December 23 - 9:23 am

  Ive enjoyed owning my 07 MCS more than my two previous MINIs. The ride in the S is much more comfortable now that the Sport Suspension is an option and not a standard (back-breaking) feature. But I have had some weird things happen with the factory- installed iPod adapter, and sometimes the NAV screen just blanks. The dealer cant find anything wrong with it. The run flats roar on the highway, but replacing them made the ride quieter. Visibility is an issue: other moron drivers have plowed into my lane on 4 occasions. Luckily I was able to avoid them, but its still scary. Finally, this is definitely a single person car; any more than 2 people and its a tight fit for stuff.

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  dont waste your money - 2008 Mini Cooper
  By dan - December 21 - 7:06 pm

  we bought this to fast ,it is very small inside and hard to get to anything in the back after only 6 months the dealer will only give us 19,000 trade for a 33,800 loaded mini , they told us the mini was hard to get and has a good resale value ,these were just lies to get us to buy the car if you dont mind a bumpy ride,no room inside ,or want to loose 15,000 on your car in 6 months than this is the car for you ,i learned my lesson the hard way , hope this helps you .

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  Best handeling - 2004 Mini Cooper
  By tiaI - December 21 - 2:00 am

  With CVT it is slow getting off the line, but once uderway, it is one of the best handeling cars I have driven. If it werent such a dog, the CVT would be a great transmission. A lot of fun

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  No way, no how! - 2003 Mini Cooper
  By baker831 - December 20 - 12:10 pm

  My Mini has been nothing but trouble, I have had to replace the brakes twice and have stored it for 2 winters and owned it less than 2 yrs. The drivers door went from only opening from the outside to not opening at all. Now the power steering is messed up. The closest dealer is 3 hrs away and no one else will touch it, plus it is expensive to fix. The cup holder is extremely inconvenient, w/ being such a small car they really should move it. When it is working it is fun to drive but Im afraid to go too far. The heated seats are nice but the drivers gets hot, like burn you hot. Not worth the trouble, money or time. Sure it looks cute but icarumba

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  After a Year and a Half - 2006 Mini Cooper
  By Robert - December 19 - 11:30 am

  I really enjoy this car and Im glad that I bought it. I purchased the S model and added the moonroof, fog lamps and DSC. The moonroof is outstanding, I like the DSC but if I didnt have the fog lamps, I wouldnt notice. I havent had any problems, but after 20,000 miles there are a few rattles and squeaks (particularly in the brakes on a cold day - the dealer told me that that was because of the brake pad composition). Its gas mileage is good, even with having to buy premium gas (I just filled it today and spent $32 in NJ). All in all, this car is still a blast to drive and I always get a question or two at the car wash about it. Im happy with my 06 Mini Cooper S!

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  MINIs: THe New Milenium - 2005 Mini Cooper
  By MINIZ - December 18 - 7:30 am

  This car is not only fuel efficent, its fun to drive. I drive my kids around and they are extremely comfortable. Its got power and speed; it makes you want to keep driving! I recommned this car for anyone who is looking for a safe, reliable, fun and cute car to drive! Lets motor!

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  Mini Cooper S (chip-tuned) 200 Hp - 2003 Mini Cooper
  By Ferdinand Hinloopen - December 17 - 10:00 am

  Dear readers, Recently I bought myzelf a Mini Cooper S. The power was ok but I chip-tuned the Mini in the Netherlands by Braspenning. Now I have got 207 HP and 255 Torque (at 3500). The car is absolutely fabilous. The sound, the fun to drive and acceleration is really big fun. Driving at 100 Kph (60 mph) in third gear and than: step on the gas! Wooo, you will be launched! than go to 4 and 5th gear, look at the speed (above 200 kmh!) This is now a BMW/Mercedes/Audi beater. fun, fun and fun. Wonderful car! A wanahave.