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Mini Cooper

EPA MPG: 31 mpg
Average Retail Price
$3,500 - $4,925

RECALL ALERT:
There are 5 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

Road Test

Despite being the least-expensive Mini, the base Mini Cooper with a manual transmission is our top-scoring variant. It outscores the faster turbocharged Cooper S and larger Clubman due to its better ride and fuel economy. Even with its base engine, the Mini is a joy to drive with excellent handling and braking. Fuel economy is impressive at 33 mpg overall, but it requires premium fuel. A slightly choppy ride and high interior noise levels grate on a long trip. The rear seat is small and many controls are overly complicated and unintuitive. Bluetooth is standard on all models.

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2008 Sedans & Hatchbacks Reliability

This Car
NA
vs. Similar Cars

Crash and Rollover Tests

IIHS Front Moderate Overlap
Good
IIHS Front Small Overlap, Driver
NA
IIHS Side Crash
Acceptable
NHTSA Overall Crash
NA
NHTSA Overall Frontal-Crash
NA
NHTSA Overall Side-Crash
NA

Crash and Rollover Tests

IIHS Front Moderate Overlap
Good
IIHS Front Small Overlap, Driver
NA
IIHS Side Crash
Acceptable
NHTSA Overall Crash
NA
NHTSA Overall Frontal-Crash
NA
NHTSA Overall Side-Crash
NA

Mini vs. Other New Car Brands

Mini vs. Other New Car Brands

Crash and Rollover Tests

IIHS Front Moderate Overlap
Good
IIHS Front Small Overlap, Driver
NA
IIHS Side Crash
Acceptable
NHTSA Overall Crash
NA
NHTSA Overall Frontal-Crash
NA
NHTSA Overall Side-Crash
NA

2008 Ratings

$3,500 - $4,925
economy-icon
EPA MPG 31 mpg
Road test
Reliability
Owner Satisfaction
$5,625 - $6,150
economy-icon
EPA MPG 21 mpg
Road test
Reliability
Owner Satisfaction
$6,375 - $7,400
economy-icon
EPA MPG 23 mpg
Road test
Reliability
Owner Satisfaction
$6,625 - $7,300
economy-icon
EPA MPG 26 mpg
Road test
Reliability
Owner Satisfaction
$4,650 - $7,275
economy-icon
EPA MPG 27 mpg
Road test
Reliability
Owner Satisfaction
Features & Specs
Body Style
    2-door hatchback
    wagon
    convertible
Seating
2 front, 2 rear
Drive Wheels
Front
Engines Available
  • 1.6-liter 4 (118 hp)
  • 1.6-liter 4 (115 hp)
  • 1.6-liter 4 supercharged (207 hp)
  • 1.6-liter 4 turbo (172 hp)
  • 1.6-liter 4 supercharged (168 hp)
Transmissions Available
  • 6-speed automatic
  • 5-speed manual
  • CVT
  • 6-speed manual
Warranty
Coverage varies among versions of this vehicle

In most cases, automotive warranties are based on the vehicle identification number (VIN), and the warranty will be valid regardless of ownership. The dealership can tell you exactly how much warranty is left.

Read more about extended warranties
Model History
2025-
Current Generation

The redesigned, fifth-generation Mini Cooper, launched only as a 2-door hatchback, is immediately recognizable, but that familiar styling houses a transformed interior. The cabin is more minimalist than before; there is no instrument panel, just a large, circular center screen. A head-up display is available, with augmented reality that can overlay navigation directions atop roads. The base Cooper produces about 156 hp from a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, and the sportier Cooper S creates 201 hp from a turbocharged version of that engine. The automaker claims 0-60 mph sprints can tick by in 6.3 seconds. Both engines are matched to a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.

2014-2024
2014 Redesign Year

The redesigned 2014 Cooper grew wider and longer, rides better, and has more normal controls. Improved ride and better noise isolation make it more suitable for longer drives and up to date connectivity for the time was welcomed. Even with these improvements, the Mini's frisky character and unmatched charm remain intact. The base turbocharged three-cylinder is surprisingly powerful, and the turbo four-cylinder in the S is strong. We got 31 mpg with the base car, and 30 in the S. While the automatic works well, the manual transmission better fits the Mini's nature. If you want a fun little car, go for the base Mini. But if you want something really sporty, check out the Cooper S. Beyond that, keep things simple. New features for 2016 include an available Sports package with driver-adjustable suspension settings. Updates for 2020 included standard forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking.

2007-2013
2007 Redesign Year
We really enjoy the Mini Cooper's excellent handling and performance. Nimble, quick and more refined, this 2007 redesign continues to be a lot of fun to drive. However, the ride quality of our S model test car was very stiff. Further, the design compromises practicality with its tiny rear seat and small trunk. This is a car you get because it's fun, rather than because it's practical. The larger and somewhat more practical Clubman arrived in 2008 with a small third door and a useful back seat.
2002-2006
2002 Redesign Year
The Mini Cooper is fun to drive and has plenty of head- and legroom up front. This version uses a small four-cylinder engine, paired with a slick manual, a CVT in early versions, or a responsive six-speed automatic. Handling is agile, with quick, precise steering and very little body roll. However, the ride can be choppy. The base engine lacks oomph, but the Cooper S, in early supercharged or later turbocharged form, is quick. A short windshield limits visibility, the rear seat is tiny, and the stylized controls and gauges are a confusing jumble. But if you're looking for a car with character, the Mini Cooper has lots of it.