The originator of the modern MINI Cooper line, the Hardtop has served as the basis for numerous spin-off models, from crossovers to sporty roadsters. Still, the two-door hatchback remains most closely identified with the brand and beloved by the public.
What's New for 2015
A few previously optional features are now standard.
Choosing Your MINI Cooper Hardtop
While it's still smaller than most competitors, the Hardtop grew up enough last year to make it a reasonably practical subcompact. You get 38 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seat folded, an adequate amount for everyday living and weekend trips.
The standard turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine delivers 134 horsepower and comes with your choice of a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission. As expected, fuel economy is a strong suit. You get 33 mpg in combined driving with the manual and 31 with the automatic. The available 2-liter four-cylinder turbo brings in 189 horsepower and comes standard with paddle shifter when you specify the automatic transmission. All models offers three selectable driving modes: Green, Normal and Sport.
For now, the Hardtop is offered in two trim levels:
Base
Gets the 1.5-liter engine and standard features such as automatic headlights and wipers, heated mirrors, a leather-wrapped steering wheels, Bluetooth phone and audio, automatic climate control, 15-inch alloy wheels and a six-speaker sound system with HD radio. The seats are upholstered in premium vinyl.
S
Adds the 2-liter engine and other performance enhancements such as a limited-slip differential, LED foglamps, cloth sport seats and a hood scoop. These extras add $3,400 to the base model's MSRP, which may not be good value for buyers who aren't buying a MINI for its performance.
Both versions of the Hardtop are eligible for a number of option bundles.
- The Cold Weather package adds heated front seats and power-folding mirrors.
- The Sport package includes 17-inch wheels, hood stripes and revised exterior lighting.
- You get a nifty dual-pane sunroof in the Premium package, plus a Harman Kardon sound system and keyless access.
- The Wired package provides a navigation system and enhanced infotainment technology.
- To keep things simple, MINI also offers the Loaded package with everything except the Sport contents, and the Fully Loaded package, which includes them as well.
A selection of leather upholsteries and other trim upgrades are available individually.
Don't be scared off by the standard three-cylinder engine. It's a relatively powerful unit that makes even the base Hardtop quicker than most four-cylinder competitors.