2007 Mini Cooper: Road Test

FUEL ECONOMY

Base convertible with manual transmission averaged 27.6 mpg; an S version averaged a commendable 32.3 mpg in mostly highway driving. Test S hatchback averaged 32.7. Mini recommends premium-grade fuel for all engines.

STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING

Minis turn on a dime with outstanding steering response. Even base models corner with little body lean; S versions take handling to an even higher level. Minis are among the smallest cars in the U.S. but are stable even in crosswinds. Excellent maneuverability, especially with hatchback's electrically assisted steering that offers light feel at low speeds and firms up as speed increases. Stopping control first-rate, with fine pedal feel.

CONTROLS

Not always successful balance of campy style, functionality. Large speedometer mounted in dashboard center forces driver to divert eyes from road, though hatchbacks offer small, redundant digital speedometer in tachometer face; tachometer is atop steering column, partially blocked from view. Navigation system unavailable for testing, but on convertibles, its screen replaces speedometer in dashboard and moves speedometer to steering column; on hatchbacks, it's mounted in the central speedometer face. Retro-style toggle switches controlling power windows, locks, fog lamps mounted inconveniently low on dashboard. Audio and climate controls within easier reach, but poorly marked; temperature and fan settings difficult to adjust on hatchback. Convertible top has fully automatic one-switch operation. Interior a distinctive, complex blend of colors, shapes, and textures, all with solid workmanship.

ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)

Sufficient head room and seat width for two adults, but knee space is tight even with front seats only halfway back; it disappears with them fully rearward. Shoebox-sized footwells restrict movement, comfort, are unusable if front cushions aren't raised high enough to clear toes. Outside armrests awkwardly shaped. Crouch-and-crawl ingress/egress.

VALUE WITHIN CLASS

Minis may look like economy cars, but these Recommended picks are actually sporty driving machines. The base models have no surplus of power, but S versions are quick, and all handle with the agility of a sports car. Ride is a sore point, as is rear-seat room; on convertibles, add to that terrible top-up visibility and limited cargo space. But Minis are reasonably priced, brim with character, and are available with a dizzying array of personalizing accessories.