2015 Mini Cooper Coupe/Roadster

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.

Links

2014 Mini Cooper Coupe/Roadster Review