2004 Mini Cooper: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Only minor changes mark the Mini Cooper for 2004. Offered only as a 2-dr hatchback, 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. Optional Sport packages 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, leather upholstery, and heated seats also are optional. Dealer-applied Union Jack roof graphics are offered, as are checkered and American-flag designs. For '04, standard equipment includes a digital speed readout under the tachometer (in addition to the regular speedometer) and a rear power socket. And the optional Sport seats are now offered in beige leather in addition to black and blue. Due for 2005 is a convertible version of the Cooper. About 70 major-market dealers affiliated with BMW franchises sell Minis.