2011 MINI Cooper Hardtop Overview

All the Coopers in the MINI lineup are praised for their agility and fun-to-drive factor, and all of that returns for 2011.

The MINI comes as 2-door hardtops, longer Clubman wagons and as convertibles. The base powertrain across the range is a normally aspirated 1.6L 121-hp 4-cylinder engine. Transmission options include either a standard 6-speed Getrag manual or a 6-speed automatic with steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters.

The Cooper S adds an additional level of performance to the MINI, again available across the range. The S is powered by a 181-hp turbocharged version of the 1.6L four. Six speeds are standard on S models in either the standard manual or an available automatic. S models also feature 16-inch alloys and sport-tuned suspension for increased agility and responsiveness.

The exciting 207-hp turbocharged 4-cylinder of the John Cooper Works model is available as both a coupe and as a convertible. The 6-speed manual is the only transmission available. The JCW adds 17-inch alloys, an even more aggressive suspension and big, heavy-duty brakes. Also included in the package are stability and traction control, special exterior and interior appointments and supportive sport seats.

MINIs are almost endlessly customizable, with a broad palette of exterior and interior color combinations and several cockpit materials. They are also available with a long list of options packages, which add features like an electric sunroof with twin glass front and back, automatic air conditioning, fog lamps, Bluetooth hands-free communication, auto rain-sensing wipers as well as heated seats and mirrors.

All MINI Coopers come standard with six air bags, antilock brakes, electronic brakeforce distribution and brake control and daytime running lamps.

2011 MINI Cooper Hardtop Model Changes

MINI has upped power output from its pair of engines. The Cooper's 1.6L 4-cylinder now produces 121 hp, while the turbocharged Cooper S ups its power to 181 hp. The S now includes an overboost function, which increases torque momentarily from 177 lb-feet to 192 lb-feet.

All MINI models receive updated styling to the front and rear, with new bumpers, fog lights, and taillights. Xenon headlights are now optional. Inside, previously silver trim pieces are now matte black and HD radio and a one-year subscription to satellite radio are now standard.

2011 MINI Cooper Hardtop Value

The MINI Cooper is one of the most exciting and stylish cars on the market. All models offer fun, agile handling. The base model features excellent fuel economy at 28 mpg city and 37 mpg highway, while the convertible allows for carefree, top-down motoring at the push of a button. The Cooper S brings serious performance to the MINI lineup and the Clubman adds extra space for sharing the MINI motoring experience with friends. The John Cooper Works package, first available in 2009, adds performance tweaks to turn the already go-kart-like MINI into the hottest hatchback on the road.

2011 MINI Cooper Hardtop Strengths

Retro good looks; fuel economy; agile handling; high performance S and John Cooper Works models