Compared to the higher performing MINI Cooper S, the 2014 MINI Cooper Hardtop seems like its less well-endowed little brother.
But if the Cooper S has more features than you want or is more than you want to pay for, the Cooper Hardtop is a great alternative.
Watch above as TestDriveNow shows you around the 2014 MINI Cooper Hardtop, or keep reading for highlights of the review.
The Good:
- A 1.5L turbocharged motor that splits out 134 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque. Not sportscar numbers, but it’s not going to feel like driving a golf cart, and the engine is surprisingly reactive.
- Zero-to-60 in 7.4 seconds.
- Significantly better mileage: 30 mpg city and 42 mpg highway.
- 6-speed stick shift clicks into gear decisively.
- A 30-percent increase in trunk volume for luggage.
- 4.5 inches longer, so the back seat is that much roomier. But still not quite big enough to lie down and sleep comfortably.
- As with all MINIs, customize as much as you want.
- Base price of $20,000.
The Disappointing:
- No Bluetooth audio streaming.
- Infotainment system mood lighting: Love it or hate it. Probably hate it.
- No center console storage for small items.
- A clutch pedal that is springy, although relatively easy to modulate.
- Decent for city driving, but on the highway, watch out: “Expansion joints and road noise can lead to weariness.”
- No full-featured navigation system, but does have the usual HD radio and smartphone connection options.
