This third generation Mini matured, with more conventional controls and high-tech features. Still, the youthful exuberance and fun-to-drive character remained present. Improved ride and better noise isolation made it more palatable on a long drive and up to date connectivity was welcomed. Rest assured though, the frisky character and unmatched charm remained intact.
We tested two: a base model with an automatic transmission and an up-level Cooper S with a manual. Both shine in different ways. Our base Mini Cooper, loaded with options, was upscale and stylish, while the Cooper S felt sporty and engaging
The biggest news about this version of the Mini is the turbocharged three-cylinder engine in the base car that put out a surprisingly energetic-feeling 134 hp. That said, it sounds a bit gritty below 2,000 rpm and its response from such low revs can feel lazy.
The smooth and punchy turbocharged four-cylinder in the Cooper S was also new and produces 189 hp. It's remarkably flexible, pulling strongly at low revs and reducing the need for frequent downshifts. Further, its subdued snarl is rewarding. The six-speed manual we got in our Mini Cooper S is a joy to shift. The smooth clutch takeup makes driving a breeze. The transmission even matches revs on downshifts.
We measured 31 mpg overall in the base automatic and 30 mpg from the S with its stick-shift, both impressive.
Handling has always been the Mini Cooper's forte and on that front this one lost some edge. It still feels nimble, but isn't as overtly sporty and go-kart-like as before. While the car still hangs on in corners and barely leans at all, its response isn't as immediate.
That said, this Mini's ride is markedly better than the cars’ before it, which is a fair concession for many drivers. Only severe bumps make their way into the cabin and it no longer pitches constantly on highways and back roads. The cabin is quieter too, with less road noise.
The revised interior is well done. Buttons, switches and displays were rearranged for more convenience and less affectation. Power window and lock controls moved from the center dash to the doors. The speedometer is now in front of you instead of centered on the dash. Audio and phone controls are integrated into the optional large center screen, controlled by a BMW iDrive-like central controller.
People who are drawn to the Mini for its cheerful and exuberant character will also find this version of the Mini to be more livable.
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. While the automatic works well, a manual transmission better fits the Mini's nature.
Even though the standard radio is simpler to use, it lacks the connectivity you'd expect in a modern high-tech car. So we'd also look for a car with the optional Media package to get a bigger dashboard screen, Bluetooth streaming audio, voice commands for the phone and a center armrest. It's hard to resist the panoramic sunroof, but sometimes, tough choices need to be made.
It starts simply enough, with the choice of a base three-cylinder Mini Cooper hardtop or a sportier four-cylinder Mini Cooper S. Bluetooth streaming audio or a rearview camera requires expensive option packages that are often layered upon one another.
The third-generation Mini grew four inches in length and slightly in width, which mostly translates into a bit more interior room. Ride and cabin quietness are much improved, making this Mini considerably more civil, but some handling sharpness was lost.
All Minis became turbocharged; the three-cylinder base engine packs considerably more power than the previous four-cylinder, improving performance. Cooper S versions also got more power from a larger engine while delivering fuel-sipping fuel economy. Controls were also revised, becoming somewhat simpler.
New features for 2016 included an available Sports package with driver-adjustable suspension settings.