Mini

Mini is a British-derived automaker specializing in the manufacture of compact vehicles that are presented under the marque Mini Cooper. Falling under the purview of German automaker BMW, Mini shares the brands’ proclivity for clubbable performance and first-rate build-quality. These little joyriders are distinguishable by their charming retro-Italian aesthetics and small sizes. While shoppers in the USA typically prefer large SUVs and cars, BMW’s Mini Coopers have been selling well in the market, and will undoubtedly continue doing so for some time yet.

Mini Cooper Models

There are only a handful of Mini Cooper models within the entire range, excluding the JCW division. However, each is put forward with a trio of sub-trims and plenty of customization options, such as the trademark blue and white Union Jack taillights and mirror caps. Unlike the variants from John Cooper Works, the regular models are more balanced in the performance they deliver, making them ideal for those who don’t seek the thrill and immense capability of high-performance nameplates such as the GP.

• Hardtop - The original Mini was a vehicle purposed for darting swiftly through the urban environment, thanks to its peppy acceleration, slight size, and apt handling dynamics. Its successor, the new Mini Cooper, carries these qualities still, only now presented with contemporary looks in two- or four-door iterations. A tiny but gutsy turbocharged engine empowers this classic. Along with the Cooper S and JCW versions, this semi-hot hatch is among the few modern automobiles still proffered with a manual gearbox.
• Countryman - Advertised as a sport adventure vehicle, the Mini Cooper Countryman is unlike a typical SUV. It’s more of a quasi-crossover taking a position within the subcompact classification. It is specced with a turbo-infused engine, automatic transmission, and either a front- or an all-wheel-drive system, the latter of which also separates it from the typical subcompact. While it may sport an outdoorsy image, its appeal lies on the inside as the badge’s most spacious and practical offering.
• Clubman - This small wagon may not seem as fun as other Mini Coopers, but it is one of the best looking, and is passenger-centric with plenty of interior space thanks to its extended wheelbase. It comes standard-fit with the more powerful turbo-four and, though FWD is stock, an optional All4 AWD setup sets it apart from the competition.
• Convertible - Based on the two-door hardtop, the cabrio version emphasizes the fun factor of the marque. It does, however, negatively impact the practicality of the pint-sized body with barely any space provided within the back seats and trunk. Nevertheless, this leisure-mobile rolls out with the option of two really enjoyable motors and an extensive list of packages and add-ons.
• Electric - Equipped with a 181 horsepower powertrain, this contemporary EV bolts from 0 to 60 mph in a respectable 6.9 seconds and is capable of covering up to 110 miles per full charge of its galvanic system. The badge’s first and only non-gasoline automobile will go on sale for an MSRP of around $29,900 in the US. The EPA estimates that it will achieve 108 MPGe in mixed conditions.

Mini Cooper Range and Prices

What to Consider Before Buying

There are many things that the Mini Cooper brand has done right. But, as with anything in life, nothing is perfect, and in-depth reviews on the Mini Cooper from CarBuzz elaborate on this. Here are just some of the advantages and disadvantages one may experience with any car from the Mini Cooper brand:

Pros

• Novel and attractive retro-Italian designs
• Enjoyable and apt driving dynamics
• Upscale and high-quality cabin aesthetics

Cons

• All are relatively expensive off-the-bat
• Cabins, especially in the rear, are compact
• Packages and options are pricey

FAQs About the Mini Cooper Brand