Mini Cooper Hardtop
Mini Cooper Hardtop
Mini Cooper Hardtop

2017 Mini Cooper Hardtop

Pros: Agile handling; impressive fuel economy; peppy acceleration in S model; long list of options and personalization features; good all-around visibility

Cons: Control layout favors whimsical design over ergonomics; taut ride, especially on S model; cramped rear seat space and cargo room; difficult entry and exit on 4-door model; pricey options add up quickly; premium fuel required

CG Says: For 2017, control screen, voice command, Bluetooth, and center armrest are now standard on Mini Cooper Hardtop. Formerly standard driving-mode selector and multicolor interior lighting move to the option list. There is a new Seven Special Edition package with unique trim. Mini Cooper Hardtops are front-wheel drive, subcompact hatchbacks available in two- and four-door versions. Because of the Mini’s handling and performance we include it our Sporty/Performance Car group. Base Coopers have a 134-horsepower turbocharged 3-cylinder engine; the sporty S model gets a 189-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder (which is hopped up to 228 hp in the new John Cooper Works model). Both engines offer the choice of either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission. A broad range of optional technology features is available, including some rare-for-the-class features such as a self-parking system, heads-up display, and adaptive cruise control. The 2014 revamp brought slightly bigger dimensions that give this third-generation Mini Cooper a bit more space inside than its predecessor, but the car’s quirky personality and nimble, caffeinated driving character carry over intact. The 4-Door offers the passenger- and cargo versatility of two extra doors, but its stingy door openings make for tricky entry and exit. Mini Coopers are a bit pricey compared to some of the subcompact hatchbacks they’re often shopped against, especially when the optional equipment is added. However, if you want a little enthusiast attitude in your commuter hatchback–along with the ability to personalize it to your tastes–a Mini Cooper is worth checking out.

The Facts
Class Sporty/Performance Car
Body Style(s) 2-door or 4-door hatchback
Passenger Count 4 or 5
Drive Wheels front-wheel drive
Manufacturer Mini
Nation of Manufacture England
Base Prices Cooper 2-dr: $20,950
Cooper 4-dr: $21,950
Cooper S 2-dr: $24,400
Cooper S 4-dr: $25,400
John Cooper Works 2-dr: $30,900

Base Engine
turbocharged 1.5-liter 3-cylinder
Horsepower
134
Std. Transmission
6-speed manual
Avail. Transmission
6-speed automatic
EPA City Range (mpg)
27-28
EPA Hwy Range (mpg)
36-38

Optional Engine
turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder
Horsepower
189 (228 in JCW)
Std. Transmission
6-speed manual
Avail. Transmission
6-speed automatic
EPA City Range (mpg)
23-25
EPA Hwy Range (mpg)
32

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