MINI Cooper 2024 review
Photo: Alexander-93 (CC BY-SA 4.0), via Wikimedia Commons
Overview
The MINI Cooper remains Britain's favourite style statement on wheels, and the 2024 model — the fourth generation of the modern MINI hatch — keeps the recipe that made it a hit while moving it firmly into the digital age. Built in Oxford, the new Cooper pairs unmistakable retro styling with a thoroughly modern cabin dominated by a striking 9.4-inch circular OLED display running MINI's latest operating system.
Under the short bonnet, the Cooper C uses a characterful 1.5-litre three-cylinder turbo petrol with 156PS, driving the front wheels through a slick 7-speed dual-clutch automatic — the manual gearbox has gone for this generation. Step up to the Cooper S and a 2.0-litre turbo lifts power to 204PS for properly hot-hatch pace. Either way, the MINI's trademark go-kart handling survives intact: the steering is quick, body control is tight, and a British B-road feels like its natural habitat.
Practicality was never the MINI's strong suit. The 210-litre boot is among the smallest in the class and rear legroom is strictly occasional use, so growing families should look at the larger Countryman instead. But as a stylish, fun-to-drive small car with strong UK resale values and sensible running costs, the 2024 Cooper is as appealing as ever.
UK price from: £22,985
Specifications
| Engine | 1.5L 3-cylinder turbo petrol |
| Power | 156 PS (115 kW) |
| 0-60 mph | 7.7 seconds |
| Top speed | 140 mph |
| Fuel economy | 46.3 mpg (WLTP combined) |
| CO2 | 137 g/km |
| Boot space | 210 litres |
| Length | 4,036 mm |
| Transmission | 7-speed dual-clutch automatic |
| Drive | Front-wheel drive |
Features
- 9.4-inch circular OLED centre display with MINI Operating System 9
- 1.5-litre three-cylinder turbo petrol engine with 156PS (Cooper C)
- 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission as standard
- LED headlights with signature MINI daytime running lights
- Heated front sports seats in Vescin upholstery
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone mirroring
- Rear parking sensors with rear-view camera
- Adaptive cruise control with lane guidance
Common parts & prices
| Part | Price (GBP) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Front brake pads (set) | £54.99 | OEM quality; fits F66 Cooper C and Cooper S, front axle |
| Oil filter | £11.49 | Cartridge type for 1.5 turbo petrol engines |
| Cabin pollen filter | £16.99 | Activated carbon type; replace every 2 years |
| Wiper blades (pair) | £24.99 | Flat blades, 475mm/475mm, front pair |
| 12V battery | £129.99 | AGM 70Ah; stop-start compatible |
| Alloy wheel 17in (single) | £189.99 | Genuine MINI U-spoke design |
Pros
- Iconic retro styling that turns heads everywhere
- Superb go-kart handling on twisty British B-roads
- Characterful three-cylinder engine with eager performance
- Strong resale values on the UK used market
Cons
- Tiny 210-litre boot limits everyday practicality
- Rear seats are cramped for adult passengers
- Firm ride can feel busy on rough UK roads
- No manual gearbox option in this generation
