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2007 Mini Cooper Full Review
Date Published: 6/06/08
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Mini Cooper Full Review

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2007 Mini Cooper Review
Mini Cooper hatchbacks are redesigned for 2007, gaining slightly more power and marginally larger dimensions. Mini Cooper convertibles continue for '07 using the 2002-2006-generation design. All Minis have 4-cyl engines. Base hatchbacks have 118 hp; S hatchbacks are turbocharged and have 172. Base convertibles have 115 hp; S convertibles are supercharged and have 168. A 6-speed manual transmission is standard on all but the base convertible, which has a 5-speed manual. New for '07 is a 6-speed automatic, which replaces a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) as an option on all but the base convertible. ABS is standard, and an antiskid system is optional. S models have a functional hood scoop and sport suspension. Hatchbacks come with front side airbags and curtain side airbags. Convertibles have front side airbags that provide head and torso protection. Convertibles also have a power fabric top with heated glass rear window, plus standard rear obstacle detection and a "sunroof" mode that opens the top above the front seats. Newly optional for convertibles is a Sidewalk package that includes unique alloy wheels and upgraded interior and exterior trim. A wireless cell phone link is a hatchback-exclusive option. BMW owns Mini, and Coopers are sold at most major-market BMW dealers.
Competition
Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 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 MX-5 and Scion tC. Our Recommended picks are the Ford Mustang, Mini Cooper, and Nissan 350Z.

New or significantly redesigned models include the Mini Cooper, Nissan 350Z, and Saturn Sky.
News
Eager to mine more gold from the hot-selling Mini, BMW is finishing up a full redesign with more body styles. The U.S. rollout reportedly starts in early 2007 with new-generation 2-dr hatchbacks. A first-time 4-dr hatch bows six months later, followed by updated convertibles in spring of '08. A 2-dr wagon appears very likely, as suggested by a recent well-received concept. Wheelbase on 2-drs is stretched by 2-3 inches for more interior space; the 4-dr gets an even longer span. The makeover also adds a bit to width and overall length, the latter to improve trunk space. Even so, Mini's iconic retro styling won't change that much--a classic case of not fixing what isn't broke. Horsepower apparently won't change much either, but the current Brazilian-sourced 4-cyl engine will give way to a clean-sheet 1.6-liter developed by BMW with Peugeot of France. This new "Prince" mill is said to be lighter, more compact and probably more refined than the outgoing 4-cyl "Tritec" unit. More modern, too, with variable valve timing and direct fuel injection. Transmission choices will also change, with a standard 6-speed manual and optional 6-speed automatic for both Cooper and Cooper S models. The CVT is said to be history. Suspension will be unchanged in concept, but most all underskin components should be new and probably upgraded. The same goes for the interior, though its general layout and appearance are much the same. More info as we get it, so keep checking back with us.
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2007 Mini Cooper Road Test
Pros Cons
Steering/handling Ride
Fuel economy Rear-seat room
Visibility (hatchback) Rear-seat entry/exit
Cargo room
Visibility (convertible)
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration

Base hatchback, auto. S hatch, man. Base convertible, man. S convertible, man. Class Average
4 7 5 6 6.4

Hatchback or convertible, base models with manual transmission are lively enough around town, but hills and highway passing demand a downshift--and some patience. Base hatchbacks with automatic a bit sleepy from a stop, but power builds quickly for adequate acceleration, and transmission kicks down promptly for more passing power. No opportunity to test base convertible with CVT.

On S models, hatchback's turbocharged engine suffers some lag at low speeds, but impressive power arrives quickly; Mini says 6.7 sec 0-60 mph with manual transmission. Automatic smooth, quick to downshift for passing. Power delivery from S convertible's supercharged engine more linear, but it doesn't feel quite as strong. No opportunity to test S convertible with automatic transmission.
Fuel Economy

Base hatchback, auto. S hatch, man. Base convertible, man. S convertible, man. Class Average
7 7 7 7 5.5

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.
Ride Quality

Base hatchback, auto. S hatch, man. Base convertible, man. S convertible, man. Class Average
4 3 3 2 4

Base models ride better than S versions, and hatchbacks are slightly better than convertibles. All Minis suffer a stiff, choppy ride over anything but glass-smooth pavement. However, only an S with optional 17-inch tires is really harsh over bumps.
Steering/Handling/Braking

Base hatchback, auto. S hatch, man. Base convertible, man. S convertible, man. Class Average
8 10 8 9 8

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.
Quietness

Base hatchback, auto. S hatch, man. Base convertible, man. S convertible, man. Class Average
4 3 2 2 3

Engines smooth. Wind and road noise grow intrusive at highway speeds, particularly with 16- and 17-inch tires. Loud wind buffeting on highway from open "sunroof" in convertible's top.
Controls

Base hatchback, auto. S hatch, man. Base convertible, man. S convertible, man. Class Average
5 5 5 5 5.5

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/Driver Seating (front)

Base hatchback, auto. S hatch, man. Base convertible, man. S convertible, man. Class Average
6 6 5 5 5.1

Generous seat travel, high ceiling accommodate large occupants. Convertible's wide center console restricts knee room for taller drivers; hatchback's narrower console provides more space. Seats firm, supportive, but too low for best entry/exit. Both seats have height adjustment. Hatchback visibility great in all directions. Top down, convertible's rear visibility hindered by top stack, rear headrests, roll bar. Top up, it's severely restricted--a deficit only partly offset at low speed by standard rear-obstacle-detection system.
Room/Comfort (rear)

Base hatchback, auto. S hatch, man. Base convertible, man. S convertible, man. Class Average
2 2 2 2 1.1

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.
Cargo Room

Base hatchback, auto. S hatch, man. Base convertible, man. S convertible, man. Class Average
5 5 2 2 2.5

Hatchback has small but useful space behind rear seat. Convertible has small trunk opening. On both, rear seatback folds 50/50, but sections rest several inches above load floor. Large door map pockets, but cockpit storage otherwise tight.
Value within Class

Base hatchback, auto. S hatch, man. Base convertible, man. S convertible, man. Class Average
7 7 7 7 6.2

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.
Total Score

Base hatchback, auto. S hatch, man. Base convertible, man. S convertible, man. Class Average
52 55 46 47 47.3
Scores for all Sporty/performance Cars

Low Score
41
Average Score
47
High Score
57
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2007 Mini Cooper Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 04/23/2007
Trim Name Retail Price Dealer Invoice Destination Charge
Base 2-door convertible $21,950 $19,837 $650
S 2-door convertible $25,400 $22,942 $650
Base 2-door hatchback $18,050 $16,327 $650
S 2-door hatchback $21,200 $19,162 $650
Pricing Key: Retail prices listed with each report are set by the vehicle's manufacturer. These figures appear on each car's federally mandated window sticker. Most price lists also include dealer-invoice prices. Dealer-invoice prices are what the dealer pays the manufacturer for the car and its factory-installed options. The destination charge is not included in the suggested-retail or dealer-invoice price and must be added to the cost of the vehicle. Car companies change prices frequently throughout the year. If the prices published do not match those on the vehicle's window sticker, the manufacturer has probably altered the price recently.
NA = price note available, NC = no charge.
Rebates and Incentives
There are no rebates or incentives at this time.
Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.
Standard Equipment
Base convertible
Powertrain
1.6-liter 4-cylinder 115-horsepower engine, 5-speed manual transmission.
Safety
Dual front airbags, front side airbags, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, rear-obstacle-detection system, tire-pressure monitor, roll bars.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Air conditioning, interior air filter, power steering, tilt leather-wrapped steering wheel, vinyl upholstery, height-adjustable front bucket seats, cupholders, split folding rear seat, power mirrors, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, AM/FM/CD player, digital clock, tachometer, variable-intermittent wipers, cooled glove box, illuminated visor mirrors, map lights, power convertible top, rear defogger.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Theft-deterrent system, 175/65R15 tires, alloy wheels.
S convertible adds to Base convertible:
Powertrain
1.6-liter 4-cylinder supercharged 168-horsepower engine, 6-speed manual transmission, traction control.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Sport seats.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Sport suspension, 195/55R16 tires.
Base hatchback adds to Base convertible:
Powertrain
1.6-liter 4-cylinder 118-horsepower engine, 6-speed manual transmission, traction control.
Safety
Side head-protection airbags.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Tilt/telescope steering wheel, trip computer, outside-temperature indicator, rear wiper.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Deletes: rear-obstacle-detection system, roll bars, power convertible top.
S hatchback adds to Base hatchback:
Powertrain
1.6-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder 172-horsepower engine.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Sport seats.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Front fog lights, rear spoiler, 195/55R16 tires.
Optional Equipment
Major Packages
Retail Price
Invoice Price
Premium Pkg.
hatchback
$1,400
$1,260
Automatic climate control, cruise control, wood/leather-wrapped or leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls, power sunroof.
Sport Pkg.
S
$1,400
$1,260
Antiskid system, xenon headlights w/washers, front fog lights (convertible), 17-inch wheels. Hatchback requires hood stripes.
Sidewalk Pkg.
convertible
$4,000
$3,600
Traction control (Base), antiskid system, automatic climate control, cruise control, leather upholstery, sport seats, harman/kardon sound system, steering wheel radio controls, trip computer, unique interior and exterior trim, fog lights, performance tires, special 16-inch alloy wheels. NA w/JCW Tuning Kit.
Hyper Sport Pkg.
hatchback
$1,400
$1,260
Body cladding, sport suspension.
Convenience Pkg.
hatchback
$1,400
$1,260
Universal garage door opener, keyless access and starting, center armrest, wireless cell phone link, automatic day/night rearview mirror, rain-sensing wipers, automatic headlights.
JCW Tuning Kit
S convertible
$6,300
$5,670
1.6-liter supercharged 207-horsepower 4-cylinder engine, limited-slip differential, uprated brakes. Requires Sport Pkg. NA w/6-speed automatic transmission.
Cold Weather Pkg.
Base convertible, Base hatchback, S convertible, S hatchback
$300
$270
Heated front seats, heated washer jets, heated mirrors.
Audio Pkg.
hatchback
$1,400
$1,260
Upgraded sound system, high-definition radio, satellite radio.
Powertrain
Continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT)
Base convertible
$1,300
$1,170
6-speed automatic transmission w/manual-shift capability
Base hatchback, S
$1,350
$1,215
Limited-slip differential
S
$500
$450
NA w/6-speed automatic transmission.
Safety
Antiskid system
Base convertible, Base hatchback, S convertible, S hatchback
$500
$450
Convertible includes traction control.
Rear-obstacle-detection system
hatchback
$350
$315
Comfort and Convenience Features
Navigation system
convertible
$1,700
$1,530
hatchback
$2,100
$1,890
Convertible includes trip computer. Hatchback includes voice recognition, traffic information. Hatchback requires cruise control.
Trip computer
convertible
$200
$180
Includes outside-temperature indicator.
Cockpit Chrono Pack
convertible
$300
$270
Includes coolant /oil pressure/oil temperature gauges, trip computer. NA w/navigation system.
harman/kardon sound system
convertible
$550
$495
Upgraded sound system
hatchback
$550
$495
High-definition radio
hatchback
$500
$450
Satellite radio
hatchback
$950
$855
Wireless cell phone link
hatchback
$600
$540
Requires center armrest.
Power sunroof
hatchback
$850
$765
Automatic climate control
Base convertible, Base hatchback, S convertible, S hatchback
$300
$270
Keyless access and starting
hatchback
$500
$450
Rain-sensing wipers
Base convertible, Base hatchback, S convertible, S hatchback
$200
$180
Includes automatic headlights.
Universal garage door opener
Base convertible, Base hatchback, S convertible, S hatchback
$200
$180
Hatchback requires automatic day/night rearview mirror.
Automatic day/night rearview mirror
Base convertible, Base hatchback, S convertible, S hatchback
$200
$180
Heated power-folding mirrors
Base convertible, Base hatchback, S convertible, S hatchback
$300
$270
Cruise control
convertible
$250
$225
hatchback
$550
$495
Includes steering-wheel radio controls. Hatchback includes wood/leather-wrapped or leather-wrapped steering wheel.
Sport seats
Base
$300
$270
Cloth upholstery
Base convertible, Base hatchback, S convertible, S hatchback
$0
$0
Base hatchback requires sport seats.
Cloth/leather upholstery
convertible
$800
$720
hatchback
$1,000
$900
Base requires sport seats.
Leather upholstery
convertible
$1,300
$1,170
hatchback
$1,500
$1,350
Base convertible requires sport seats.
Leather upholstery w/piping
hatchback
$1,900
$1,710
Base requires sport seats.
Wood or alloy interior trim
hatchback
$300
$270
Heated front seats
Base convertible, Base hatchback, S convertible, S hatchback
$270
$245
Center armrest
Base convertible, Base hatchback, S convertible, S hatchback
$200
$180
Chrome line interior trim
Base convertible, Base hatchback, S convertible, S hatchback
$200
$180
Unique interior trim
hatchback
$200
$180
Unique headliner
hatchback
$200
$180
Body-colored interior trim
convertible
$200
$180
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Body cladding
hatchback
$1,300
$1,170
Rear spoiler
Base hatchback
$150
$135
Hood stripes
Base convertible, Base hatchback, S convertible, S hatchback
$100
$80
White or black roof and mirrors
hatchback
$0
$0
White turn signal lenses
hatchback
$100
$90
Xenon headlights w/washers
Base convertible, Base hatchback, S convertible, S hatchback
$550
$495
Front fog lights
convertible, Base hatchback
$150
$135
Rear fog light
Base convertible, Base hatchback, S convertible, S hatchback
$100
$90
Chrome line exterior trim
Base convertible, hatchback
$250
$225
S convertible
$200
$180
Includes chrome mirrors.
Chrome mirrors
Base convertible, Base hatchback, S convertible, S hatchback
$150
$135
Special paint
Base convertible, Base hatchback, S convertible, S hatchback
$450
$405
Sport suspension
Base convertible, hatchback
$500
$450
White-painted alloy wheels
Base convertible, Base hatchback, S convertible, S hatchback
$0
$0
Hatchback requires white or black roof and mirrors.
16-inch wheels w/run-flat or all-season tires
Base
$600
$540
17-inch wheels w/run-flat tires
S
$600
$540
Web-spoke alloy wheels
S
$1,100
$990
Includes 17-inch wheels w/run-flat tires.
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2007 Mini Cooper Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
Specification Mini Cooper 2-door hatchback Mini Cooper 2-door convertible
Wheelbase, in. 97.1 97.1
Overall Length, in. 145.6 143.1
Overall Width, in. 66.3 66.5
Overall Height, in. 55.4 55.7
Curb Weight, lbs. 2546 2700
Cargo Volume, cu. ft. 24.0 4.2
Standard Payload, lbs. -- --
Fuel Capacity, gals. 10.6 13.2
Seating Capacity 4 4
Front Head Room, in. 38.8 38.4
Max. Front Leg Room, in. 41.4 41.3
Rear Head Room, in. 37.6 38.1
Max. Rear Leg Room, in. 29.9 27.7
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
  dohc I4 Turbocharged dohc I4 dohc I4 Supercharged dohc I4
Size, liters/cu. in. 1.6 /98 1.6 /98 1.6 /98 1.6 /98
Horsepower @ rpm. 118 @ 6000 172 @ 5500 115 @ 6000 168 @ 6000
Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. 114 @ 4250 177 @ 1600 111 @ 4500 162 @ 4000
Availability Standard Standard Standard Standard