2015 Mini Cooper Coupe

Pros: Tremendously agile handling; one-of-a-kind looks; quick acceleration in S and John Cooper Works models; excellent clutch and shifter action; numerous personalization options

Cons: Stiff ride, especially with S and John Cooper Works models; steep prices, especially on John Cooper Works edition; poor rear visibility; unorthodox styling limits practicality and may be too radical for some; wonky control layout

CG Says: Mini’s sporty two-seaters see a few minor changes for 2015. Rain-sensing wipers and automatic climate control are now standard, and the available fog lights are now LED units instead of halogen. Cooper Coupes and Roadsters share virtues and vices with equivalent Mini Hardtops and Convertibles, but sacrifice back-seat utility for sportier styling and handling. That strikes us as a questionable tradeoff given the higher prices–and that’s before options that can quickly run up delivered tabs to premium-class levels. Our test John Cooper Works Coupe, for example, stickered at a not-so-Mini $38,350 (including $700 destination). So unless you’re simply mad about the Coupe’s or Roadster’s looks and 2-seat format, a 4-passenger base or S Hardtop (or equivalent Convertible model) offers better value–and arguably more of an “authentic Mini” experience.

The Facts
Class Sporty/Performance Car
Body Style(s) 2-door coupe, 2-door convertible
Passenger Count 2
Drive Wheels front-wheel drive
Manufacturer Mini
Nation of Manufacture England
Base Prices Cooper Coupe: $22,000
Cooper S Coupe: $25,300
John Cooper Works Coupe: $31,900
Cooper Roadster: $26,100
Cooper S Roadster: $29,100
John Cooper Works Roadster: $36,250

Base Engine
1.6-liter 4-cylinder
Horsepower
121
Std. Transmission
6-speed manual
Avail. Transmission
6-speed automatic
EPA City Range (mpg)
27
EPA Hwy Range (mpg)
34

Optional Engine
turbocharged 1.6-liter 4-cylinder
Horsepower
181
Std. Transmission
6-speed manual
Avail. Transmission
6-speed automatic
EPA City Range (mpg)
26
EPA Hwy Range (mpg)
35

Optional Engine
turbocharged 1.6-liter 4-cylinder
Horsepower
208
Std. Transmission
6-speed manual
Avail. Transmission
6-speed automatic
EPA City Range (mpg)
26
EPA Hwy Range (mpg)
35

IMG_5190
2015 Mini Cooper Roadster
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