The
2010 Mini Cooper is available as a two-door hatchback or convertible in four trim levels: Base, Clubman, S, and John Cooper Works. The Base and Clubman trims come with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine paired to a six-speed manual transmission, with a six-speed automatic as optional. The Cooper S trim has a turbocharged version of the base engine, while the John Cooper Works boosts the turbo even higher but offers only the six-speed manual transmission.
The Mini Cooper sports a 2+2 seating configuration but the rear seat area is really quite small. However, the Clubman trim provides a third door for access to the rear seating area, seats children and even small adults, and the wheelbase is longer as well. In spite of its size, the Mini Cooper gets above average crash test scores, and boasts an impressive estimated 28 mpg city / 37 mpg highway in fuel economy.
New for 2010
For 2010, the Mini Cooper gets a pair of special edition packages, the Camden and Mayfair, which include a variety of options and clever color combinations. Standard are a multifunction steering wheel and cruise control, while the upgraded stereo is now branded Harman Kardon.
Essentials
Engines: 1.6L I4, 1.6L turbocharged I-4
Transmissions: 6-speed manual, 6-speed automatic
Body Styles: Hatchback, convertible
Trims: Base Hatchback, Base Convertible, Clubman Hatchback, Clubman S Hatchback, John Cooper Works Hatchback, John Cooper Works Convertible, John Cooper Works Clubman Hatchback, S Hatchback, S Convertible
On the Outside
Undeniably, the Mini Cooper is cute, but it can take on an assertive stance quickly enough, with a few well-chosen factory options or the optional John Cooper Works trim package.
From the Inside
Within, the Mini Cooper is not so cute, with a bit too much form and not enough function. Even though the interior materials and quality are pretty good for the price, the layout of the controls can be confusing.
Driving Performance
The Mini Cooper features lively, if not rapid, acceleration and quick steering, but the S trim takes this up a notch with its turbocharged engine and stiffer suspension. The Mini Cooper has a relatively firm suspension, and S can actually be quite harsh; however, the extended-wheelbase Clubman offers a more comfortable ride.
Safety Equipment
Standard safety equipment on the Mini Cooper includes front, side, and side curtain airbags. The convertible gets front and side airbags, while stability control and traction control are standard across the board.
Gas Mileage
Mini Cooper: 28 mpg city/37 mpg highway (manual); 25mpg city/33mpg highway (automatic)
Mini Cooper S, Mini Cooper S Convertible, Mini Cooper Clubman S: 26 mpg city/ 34 mpg highway (manual); 24 mpg city/32 mpg highway (automatic)
Mini Cooper Clubman: 28 mpg city/36 mpg highway (manual), 25 mpg city/33 mpg highway (automatic)
Mini Cooper Convertible: 28 mpg city/36 mpg highway (manual), 25 mpg city/33 mpg highway (automatic)
John Cooper Works (Cooper, Clubman): 25 mpg city/33 mpg highway
Plusses
- Agile handling
- Iconic style
- Fuel efficient
Minuses
- Off-beat interior
- Wrist-twisting torque steer
Rating
Cute, fun, peppy little coupe or convertible
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