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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  Great little car - 2002 Mini Cooper
  By el12 - July 2 - 10:00 am

  I have the cvt version,it feels much smoother below 3000rpm than the 5 speed version.NO stall problem.Great little car;fun to drive;a lot of car for the money.

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  The Best Buy! - 2004 Mini Cooper
  By CWs MINI - June 30 - 6:20 pm

  After 2.5 years the love still has not faded. I look forward to going places just so I can drive my MINI. I also took an opportunity to get a quote on trading it in when I went in for my FREE scheduled maintenance and found out that I would get $15,600 which is a 79.1% trade-in value. That number is exceptional! If you love getting you moneys worth and some money back in the end then this is the car for you! I couldnt believe it was still worth so much. I am already looking forward to trading it in next year and get my hands on another brand new MINI... but this time I will upgrade to the S and the JCW (the works). MINI owners know what Im talking about! I recomend this car to ALL!

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  A blast to drive, even for a tall guy! - 2007 Mini Cooper
  By Brian - June 25 - 3:40 pm

  The Mini corners like a go-kart and is really fun to drive. I prefer it to my Mercedes 320 Kompressor. I have had absolutely no problems with it. Built 3x more rigid than the average car, and 5***** crash ratin, I feel safer in it than most cars. Get the dual sunroof if possible. Only downside is seeing the stoplights for a 6.6" guy, when the seat is set far back. I get 39.5 mpg 6-speed, the low EPA estimate is a joke!

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  Best compact for price, reliability& fun - 2004 Mini Cooper
  By Brandon Wells - June 22 - 10:00 am

  The pure look of the mini could sell any car lover right away, but it is when you start to look at the detail and craftsman ship that has gone into the vehicle is what will make you fall flat on your ass. A 1.6 litre engine that delivers 115 horse power and steering that will turn on a dime, makes this vehicle feel like you are in the fastest go-cart in the world. Car enthusisats have been waiting years for someone to revitalize the Mini name and cudos to BMW for finaly doing so. Combing British old school styling and engineering with Current, top of the line, German engineering makes this on of the best cars on the road to drive and own.

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  So far, so good - 2006 Mini Cooper
  By fedssocr - June 21 - 4:36 pm

  I bought my MINI Cooper in March 2006. I placed the order in January but had to wait a couple of months to get my car. I dont drive very much so I only have about 3,500 miles on it so far. At first, the gas mileage seemed low, but now that everything is broken in its great. I average over 40 mpg on the highway and about 30 or so combined city/hwy. I am also fairly small so I am quite comfortable. The handling is great. Even though its "only" a base Cooper I still have plenty of passing power and zip when I need it. Its really a great little car. This car is easy to drive, easy to park.

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  Super Fun Car - 2005 Mini Cooper
  By DRG1138 - June 20 - 7:50 am

  After leasing a loser VW Jetta 1.8 T, I wanted a European car that: A-Handled like a European Car, B-Was realativly inexpensive, and C-Wasnt a peice of junk (like my Jetta). After some research and a test drive I was set on the MINI and in my humble opinion this car has scored big in critera A and B. Talk to me in six months and I will tell you about C but I am not worried. MINI will tell you that it handles like a go-kart. I say it handles like a remote control car. The ride is ruff but if you like to feel the road and be in control of the car you can not get any better for the money. Price-wise I think you are getting more car than you pay for. My MINI is awsome.

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  I Love This Car! - 2004 Mini Cooper
  By Mini Girl - June 19 - 7:13 pm

  Im a Mini lover from way back, and never dreamed Id own my own. Now that I do, Im finding that a car is not just a car, its an identity, a conversation starter, a hobby, an entertainment, and so much more. My kids ride in the back, and all they can talk about is becoming old enough to be able to drive it. Even my husband, who is a tough sell, says well never sell it and one day, it will be our own cool, classic car. It is light on storage, but thats not why I bought it and I find a way to carry whatever I need to. Thanks to Mini for building such a marvelous automobile. Im in love!

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  Fun, But Likely Wont Buy Another - 2007 Mini Cooper
  By Kurt - June 19 - 12:46 pm

  Engine computer malfunctions cause the car to die and require a tow about every three months, each time with the family onboard. My young son went from loving it to hating it and would rather go in our Land Rover on weekends.

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  2007 Mini Cooper S aluminum block - 2007 Mini Cooper
  By Nelson - June 6 - 8:16 pm

  My daughter bought me this car because I am poor. With this car, I am poorer. Plus, the local mechanic cant fix it and the dealer is two hours away. In fact, I took it to the dealer for cold start problems, and they could not fix it or even find the problem. Either fuel pump or carbon on valves. How can a car with less than 50,000 miles have carbon build up? And this is evidently common, perhaps a congenital defect. Also the normal maintenance, for example, the tires, is every 25,000 miles and costs $800 for horrid run flats. This car is not for one without disposable income and need for reliability.

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  2005 Mini Cooper S - 2005 Mini Cooper
  By CyKy0205 - June 3 - 1:16 am

  This car is fun to drive and own. Trying to keep it within the speed limit is difficult. I purchased a radar detector before I filled the tank for the first time. The only downside was getting the run-flat tire repaired after I picked up a nail on the street.