Excellent engines; impressive fuel economy; nimble handling; fits just about anywhere
Only two seats; even less cargo space than a regular Mini; can get pricey when loaded with options
In addition to a few minor color updates, the Mini Cooper Coupe adds two new standard features for 2015: automatic wipers and automatic climate control.
The MINI Cooper Coupe comes in three available trim levels. There's a base model, called simply the Coupe, a midlevel Cooper S Coupe and a high-performance John Cooper Works (JCW) model.
Drivers who choose the base-level Cooper Coupe ($22,900) get 16-inch alloy wheels and basic power accessories, such as windows, mirrors, locks and keyless entry, along with newly standard automatic climate control and rain-sensing wipers. The Coupe also includes standard leatherette upholstery and iPod and USB connectivity. A 121-hp 1.6-liter engine is standard.
Upgrade to the Cooper S Coupe ($26,200), and you get a turbocharged version of the base model's engine, which is good for 181 hp. Other upgrades include fog lights, a firmer sport suspension, sport seats and sport pedals.
Topping the range is the John Cooper Works trim ($32,800), which boosts power to 208 horses. It also features an even firmer sport suspension, an aerodynamic body kit, 17-in wheels and strong Brembo brakes.
While those prices may not seem so bad, the Cooper Coupe's biggest problem is that so many features are relegated to the options list. There's a Cold Weather package with heated seats and heater mirrors; a Premium package with keyless ignition and automatic headlights; a Technology package with the Mini Connected smartphone integration system, rear parking sensors and an upgraded sound system; and a Sport package, which adds larger wheels, sport seats and sport-tuned traction control. Like most Mini models, the Cooper Coupe also offers a long list of color options. An automatic transmission is $1,250 extra.
| Coupe | Original MSRP / Price | Engine | Horsepower | City MPG / Hwy MPG | Transmission | Drive |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cooper Coupe 2dr | $22,000 / $20,880 | 4 Cylinder | 121 | N/A | 6-Speed Manual / 6-Speed Shiftable Automatic | FWD |
| Cooper Coupe 2dr John Cooper Works | $31,900 / $28,590 | 4 Cylinder Turbo | 208 | N/A | 6-Speed Manual / 6-Speed Shiftable Automatic | FWD |
| Cooper Coupe 2dr S | $25,300 / $23,225 | 4 Cylinder Turbo | 181 | N/A | 6-Speed Manual / 6-Speed Shiftable Automatic | FWD |
The 2015 Mini Cooper Coupe comes with standard stability control, 4-wheel anti-lock disc brakes and four airbags (front and side).
The Cooper Coupe had not been crash-tested stateside as of this writing, but other Mini models have generally fared well in National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) crash tests. The Cooper Hardtop, for example, earned four stars overall from NHTSA, along with strong marks from IIHS.
| Basic | 4 Years/50,000 Miles |
| Drivetrain | 4 Years/50,000 Miles |
| Corrosion | 12 Years/Unlimited Miles |
| Roadside Assistance | 4 Years/Unlimited Miles |
| Maintenance | 3 Years/36,000 Miles |
FIAT 500 -- While we consider the base 500 to be a step down from the Mini, it's a lot cheaper. Meanwhile, the turbocharged 500 Abarth hatchback has a great engine and is almost as quick as a Cooper S Coupe for a little less money.
Mazda MX-5 Miata -- The rear-wheel-drive Miata is the quintessential affordable 2-seater, and it's now available with a retractable hardtop for a coupelike experience. We'd be hard-pressed to pick a Cooper Coupe over a Miata for the same price.
Subaru BRZ -- The 2-seat, rear-wheel-drive BRZ sport coupe is certainly worth a try. It costs as much as a well-equipped Cooper S Coupe, but it's every bit a match for the Mini through the corners, with proper rear-drive dynamics besides. Ditto for the Scion FR-S, the BRZ's mechanical twin.
AutoTrader's Advice
We don't see the point of buying a Cooper Coupe without the turbocharged engine. This isn't a practical car, so you might as well go all out under the hood. Whether you want to step all the way up to the JCW model depends on your budget. Find a Mini Cooper Coupe for sale
