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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  2007 mini cooper S - run now! - 2007 Mini Cooper
  By anita28 - July 7 - 2:43 am

  I bought a used mini cooper S - it had 39000 miles on it and 5 owners before me. I ignored that warning sign because it was so cute and so fun to drive - big mistake. I loved that car and had it for 1 yr before I traded it in - too many problems to list but the last one was a recall. I knew from experience that Mini dealership would say it was something I did so I traded it in. They never covered anything - ever - it was always my fault. I spent over 2,000 bucks on it in a year. I love the car, always will but I cant afford the repairs. For a Mini car it has Major expenses, are you prepared to pay that price? I wasnt - driving a Toyota now and very very happy with it!

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  Updated Review - My Mini Lemon - 2002 Mini Cooper
  By spkr4tdead - July 6 - 10:00 am

  OK. I have had this car for over 3 months now, and it has spent almost 1 of them (25 days) in the shop. Both the dealer, and Mini Corporate offices are trying to make me feel great about that. Problems are popping up all over the place. I have lost all faith that this car can even get me back and forth to work.. Currently in the process of getting it bought back via the California Lemon Law. I now needs to go in and get a safety related issue fixed for the 4th time. Fun Fun Fun. I should have bought something that I know would last. Honda here I come.

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  Simply Outrageous Mini - 2003 Mini Cooper
  By SO Mini - July 3 - 10:53 pm

  Our Mini Cooper is exciting and fun to drive. Weve had our Mini for about 3 months and really enjoy the performance and compliments we get. It has become a great marketing tool for our company and a relief on the wallet with fuel economy at over 30 miles per gallon on the highway. This is one of the best values on the road for your money. We cant wait to join some of the rallies that seem to take place every weekend. We nicknamed ours Simply Outrageous Mini or "SO Mini." Lets motor...

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  Best car for the price - 2003 Mini Cooper
  By movovr - July 3 - 10:00 am

  This is the best car for the price. It has value inside and out. Never has a car been built with this technology for the price. 3 years and 36000 miles of free schedule maintance is awsome too.

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  Cooper S with Rally Package - 2006 Mini Cooper
  By Ron - July 1 - 6:03 am

  This is the most fun Ive had with a car in twenty years. I never thought this car would make me feel like this, its sporty, fast, stylish and a pleasure to drive. I bought my Mini with the air filter upgrade (JCW), it provides a nice sound and a little more performance. Breaking, steering and handling are all you can expect from this car.

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  MINI - A better MGB - 2008 Mini Cooper
  By Carlover - June 27 - 3:20 am

  I have a British Racing Green basic MINI with the cold weather option. Nothing extra and I love this car. People who say its under powered do not know how to drive a stick shift sports car properly. You must use the tach, rev the engine and you have to love to shift! Use its power curve and it will never dsappopoint. I have a hard time keeping to the speed limit. My little car just wants to fly! Its very similar to my long-gone MGs, but better. Its faster, handles better, great mileage, little engine, big heart, I havent had this much fun driving in years. No issues with reliablity. More room inside than my Pontiac and room for friends if needed. What more could you ask for? Love it!!

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  Mini S Owner since July - 2003 Mini Cooper
  By Garyt - June 24 - 2:00 am

  the speed of the car is the most surprising thing. didnt expect that quickness out of a 4 cyl. I am 65" and there is plenty of leg room and head room. Safety feature of the car and recent rating of 4 stars is impressive

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  Expensive but Worth It - 2009 Mini Cooper
  By Andy J - June 22 - 1:00 pm

  A home run; why cant US car companies build something like the MINI? We paid right at $30K for the car and feel like we got a bargain. The new MINI retains some British charm but really should be regarded as the smallest member of the BMW lineup -- it looks and feels incredibly solid for a small convertible. My wife says she feels like shes behind the wheel of a baby tank. Our "S" cabrio w A/T is returning 31 MPG in mixed city/hwy driving to date. What a combination of power and fuel economy -- way to go BMW/Peugeot! Way, way bigger inside than it looks from the outside -- Im 62" 200 lbs and very comfortable in drivers seat. Trunk is tiny, but useful w/back seats folded down.

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  This is a great little car! - 2007 Mini Cooper
  By DCroft - June 20 - 7:00 pm

  Ive only had it a week so the reliability rating may be bogus but this is the most fun you can have on four wheels. I find myself looking for twisty, winding roads. It is relatively inexpensive to buy and extrememly economical to drive. All that and a fast, very nimble drive as well! I couldnt be happier (but wait till next week...)

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  Love my mini - 2005 Mini Cooper
  By John - June 16 - 9:23 pm

  My 2005 MINI Cooper S is a great car. It is lots of fun to drive and fast. It is the perfect car.