2008 Mini Cooper: Tester's Comments

2008 Mini Cooper 

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  • MSRP: $18,050 -$25,400
  • Invoice: $16,245 -$22,850

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Find out what the Consumer Guide Automotive testers had to say about the 2008 Mini Cooper. See if the 2008 Mini Cooper is right for you.

Vehicle Evaluated


Make/Model: 2008 Mini Cooper Clubman
Trim Level: Base hatchback
Arrival Date: 06/16/2008
Engine: dohc I4
Bodystyle 3-door hatchback
Transmission: 6-speed manual
4WD/AWD: No
Base Price: 19,550
Price as Tested: 28,300
Mileage at Beginning of Test: 6016
Mileage at End of Test: 7314
Total Measured Miles: 1298
Total Fuel Used: 37.416 gals.
Consumer Guide Fuel Economy: 34.69 mpg (what's this?)
Problems During Test: None
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Major Options

Hot Chocolate Metallic, Leather Lounge Hot Chocolate Seats, Launch Package (Heated Front Seats, Heated Power-folding Mirrors, Heated Washer Jets), Convenience Package (Universal Garage Door Opener, Keyless Access and Starting, Steering Wheel Radio Controls, Center Armrest, Wireless Cell Phone Link, Automatic Day/Night Rearview Mirror, Rain-sensing Wipers, Automatic Headlights), Premium Package (Automatic Climate Control, Upgraded Sound System, Power Sunroof), Sport Package (Antiskid System, Sport Seats, Front Fog Lights, Sport Suspension, 16-inch wheels), Chrome Line Interior Trim, Chrome Line Exterior Trim, White Turn Signal Lenses, Xenon Headlights

From the Back Seat

Damon Bell

The Mini Cooper's spunky, extroverted personality is not for everyone, but there are few cars that are this practical and economical while being this much fun to drive. Our decked-out Clubman carried thousands of dollars worth of options that pushed the bottom line to almost $29K, but also endowed the car with a legit upscale feel.

Don Sikora

The Mini Cooper Clubman lets you get the most out of a gallon of gas without sacrificing style or utility.

Jennifer Geiger

Minis are always fun to drive, cute as a button (especially in Hot Chocolate Metallic), and this base Clubman with the 6-speed manual was excellent on gas--37.3 mpg for me, although its need for premium fuel eats into what you save.

John Biel

On the "Sensible/Fun" gauge, even base-engine Minis of any body type move the needle toward the "Fun" half of the dial. They start out cheaply enough, but the need for premium fuel and some inherent limits on passenger and cargo space mark even a Clubman as something more fun than functional.

Tom Appel

I love this car! I'm a big guy but had no trouble driving this charmer the 600-mile round trip from Chicago to Detroit. Without the S's turbo there's not much power, but the rev-happy engine pairs nicely with the light clutch and flickable shifter, making the whole process of gaining speed lots of fun. The interior is avant garde entertaining, the whole car feels incredibly solid, and the handling is go-kart sharp. Check the options list judiciously and a Clubman can be yours for around $25,000. If your lifestyle fits the occasional-passenger and need-the-cargo-space lifestyle, that's money well spent.

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