2005 Mini Cooper: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

A convertible body style joins Mini Cooper's 2-dr hatchback for 2005. The convertible has a power top with heated glass rear window and, like the hatchback, seats four. All Mini Coopers have a 1.6-liter 4-cyl engine and come in base and sportier S trim. Base versions have 115 hp. S models are supercharged and have 168 hp, up 5 from 2004. Manual transmission is standard--a 5-speed for base models, a 6-speed for the S. A continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) is optional for base models, a conventional 6-speed automatic for S versions. All Minis have antilock 4-wheel disc brakes. Hatchbacks come with front torso side airbags and front and rear head-protecting curtain side airbags. Convertibles get front side airbags that protect the head and torso. S models have a functional hood scoop and sport suspension with 16-inch wheels vs. base versions' 15s. Optional Sport Packages include an antiskid system and increase wheel size to 17 inches on the S, 16 on the base. Convertibles come with rear obstacle detection and a "sunroof" mode that opens the top above the front seats only. For '05, all Minis get appearance revisions to headlights, taillights, and grille. Options include xenon headlamps and a navigation system--both unusual in this price range. Mini is owned by BMW, and Coopers are sold at most major-market BMW dealers.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. The Sporty/Performance Car class consists of two-seat roadsters, 4-cyl hatchbacks, and V8 muscle cars. Regardless of configuration, all have an emphasis on affordable performance.

Our Best Buys include the Mazda Miata, and Pontiac GTO. Our Recommended picks are the Acura RSX, Ford Mustang, Honda S2000, Mini Cooper, Nissan 350Z, and Scion tC.