The 2012 Mini Cooper ranks 13 out of 40 Affordable Small Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 61 published reviews and test drives of the Mini Cooper, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The 2012 Mini Cooper packs great driving dynamics and good fuel economy into a small frame, but uncomfortable rear seats and a small trunk are also part of the package.
The 2012 Mini Cooper doesn’t have a perfect interior. Its small frame makes seat comfort hit-or-miss for most adults, and there’s barely any cargo space with back seat passengers. The cabin is well-made, but reviewers think that its retro-inspired dashboard is hard to use, especially for the driver. If you want a subcompact European car that’s more practical than the Cooper, reviewers think the FIAT 500 is a better option.
But for most reviewers, those ergonomic issues are null and void once you press the gas pedal because the 2012 Mini Cooper is one of the best-performing vehicles in the class. The base Cooper isn’t nearly as powerful as the Cooper S or John Cooper Works models, but it has enough punch to satisfy most drivers as they head to and from work, and has great cornering abilities for those occasional twisty roads. If an agile and zippy small car is at the top of your shopping list, reviewers think few small cars dominate the 2012 Mini Cooper.
Other Cars to Consider
Like the Mini Cooper, the Volkswagen Golf is known as a top performer with sleek looks and a nice interior. Some reviewers consider the Mini Cooper a better-performing car, but if you need more interior space, the Golf is the better option. It has spacious rear seats and more cargo space.
For 2012, the small car class welcomes a new European model into the mix, the FIAT 500. Reviewers have spent some time comparing the Mini Cooper and the FIAT 500, and have decided that the model you choose depends on what you’re looking for. The FIAT 500, for example, is less powerful, but the driver has a more commanding view of the road and there is more cargo space, making the 500 more practical than the Cooper. But if you want more horsepower and great corning abilities, go for the Mini Cooper. Even the base model won’t disappoint.
Details: Mini Cooper
The 2012 Mini Cooper is sold in several trims. The base model is the Mini Cooper Hardtop. Next up is the performance-oriented Mini Cooper S. Both of these models are also available as convertibles. A top-of-the-line John Cooper Works model is also available as a hardtop and convertible.
For 2012, the Mini Cooper receives new standard wheels and new customization options.
