MINI is credited with bringing the first premium compact car to America, proving that high quality and small packaging are not mutually exclusive concepts. Thoroughly engineered with a well put-together feel, all the Coopers in the MINI lineup are praised for their agility and fun-to-drive factor, and all that returns for 2023.
The MINI Cooper Hardtop comes with a choice of 2 or 4-door body styles, while each is available in either standard Cooper or Cooper S trim. The 2-door is also available in the high-performance John Cooper Works trim. The convertible is a 2-door only, also offered in Cooper, Cooper S and John Cooper Works trims.
The basic Cooper is powered by a turbocharged 1.5L 3-cylinder engine. While diminutive, this power plant makes 134 horsepower and 162 foot-pounds of torque, which is more than the old 4-cylinder engine found in MINI Coopers of years past. Transmissions for the MINI Cooper Hardtop include a 6-speed manual transmission, 8-speed automatic or a 7-speed sport dual-clutch automatic.
The Cooper S adds an additional level of performance to the MINI. It is powered by a turbocharged 2.0L 4-cylinder that makes 189 horsepower Finally, the John Cooper Works is powered by the same 2.0L but produces 228 horsepower and 236 foot-pounds of torque.
4-door MINIs ride on a stretched wheelbase, adding more interior room, bigger back seats and the extra pair of doors. Overall, the 4-door adds roughly six inches to the overall length of the car when compared to the 2-door. Interior space grows in nearly every direction as a result, with additional head, shoulder and foot room for rear seat passengers.
There are three breakout trim level packages every model of the MINI Cooper Hardtop receives to help distinguish itself from the other. The classic is the base trim, and the Iconic trim being the premium choice while the Signature is the middle option.
MINI typically offers little variety between trim models, other than engine choices. Buyers are instead welcomed to option up their cars individually or through option packages, of which there are many. Being a bit of a premium small car, the MINI Cooper is available with several upscale features, including a head-up display, a navigation system, heated seats, adaptive cruise control, dynamic damper control, a rearview camera with parking assist, a Harman/Kardon sound system and leather seating.
MINI offers an array of package choices for upgraded equipment and unique design elements. Popular packages include the Touchscreen Nav Package, Driver Assistance Package, Signature Upholstery Package, Premium Package and the Oxford Edition.
MINI's customization program is legendary. The automaker wants buyers to make the car their own and allows each owner to go beyond simple alloy wheels and paint colors by offering hood stripes, mirror caps, roof decor and a dazzling array of interior upholstery options.
Retro Good Looks
Fuel Economy
Agile Handling
Available High-performance Models In The S And John Cooper Works
For 2023, the MINI Hardtop gets new paint colors and an updated trim lineup but otherwise carries over with minimal changes.
The MINI Cooper is one of the most exciting and stylish cars on the market. Known for fun handling, efficient powertrains and extensive customization options, the range of MINI models offers something for just about everyone, including the John Cooper Works, which brings serious performance to the MINI lineup.
