2002 Mini Cooper: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

This new 2-dr hatchback conjures the spirit of Britain's iconic 1959-2000 Mini, but is chiefly a BMW design built at the German company's plant in England. Positioned as a sporty coupe rather than an economy subcompact, the front-wheel-drive, 4-seat Mini is among the smallest cars sold in the U.S. The base Mini Cooper has 115 hp, the supercharged Cooper S 163, both from a 1.6-liter 4-cyl engine. Manual transmission is standard--a 5 speed for the Cooper, a 6 speed for the S. The base Cooper offers an optional continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) with a manual mode providing six "gear" ratios. Antilock 4-wheel disc brakes are standard, as are front torso side airbags and front and rear head-protecting side airbags. The S gets a functional hood scoop and sport suspension with 16-inch run-flat tires vs. 15s. Sport-package options include an antiskid system and increase wheel size to 17 inches on the S, 16 on the base Cooper. Xenon headlamps, navigation system, rear-obstacle warning, wood-and-leather interior trim, and heated seats also are optional. Dealer-installed Union Jack roof graphics recall the original Mini's; an American-flag design is available, too. Minis are available at some 70 major-market dealers affiliated with BMW franchises.

COMPETITION

Our only Best Buy in this class, the Volkswagen New Beetle, offers interesting styling and a nice mix of comfort, performance, and economy. The New Beetle is the most practical and affordable in this class.

If raw performance is what you are after, we Recommend the fun-to-drive Acura RSX and Toyota Celica. These cars offer a lot of bang for your buck.