What’s up with the Mini Cooper these days? Is it still a popular compact convertible? At one point, they were cool enough to be in, ‘An Italian Job,’ a bank robbery movie. So, what happened? Why aren’t people into the 2021 Mini Cooper? 

Reasons to avoid the 2021 Mini Cooper 

1. The Mini Cooper is overpriced 

The Mini Cooper is a bit overpriced compared to rivals. The MSRP for the base model is $23k. This price is before the dealership adds markups to try and profit off selling the vehicle. The Hyundai Kona starts around $20k, and the Nissan Kicks starts around $18k. 

We understand that the Mini Cooper is a luxury brand, but the Hyundai Kona offers a luxury feel and sporty drive for a fraction of the cost. The Buick Enclave is another luxury compact model that starts around $23k, but it’s an SUV instead of a car like the Mini Cooper. 

However, on a positive note, the Mini Cooper does have a stellar fuel economy. It gets up to 28 mpg in the city and 36 mpg. Sources mentioned the Mini Cooper for having a lower fuel economy than rivals, but we aren’t finding this to be true. 

2. The Mini Cooper is a little weak 

The base engine in the 2021 Mini Cooper is a 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine. It only pumps out 143 horsepower. More robust engine options such as the 189-hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine allow the Mini Cooper to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 6.7 seconds. The test was performed with a manual6-speed transmission by professionals on a track. 

So, the base engine probably reaches 60 mph in about 7 to 8 seconds, which is still peppy for a small car. However, don’t expect to tow anything with it. Also, the Mini John Cooper Works Clubman and Countryman models offer 300 horsepower, so go for one of those options to speed around town. 

Also, be prepared to spend more for all-wheel-drive. If you need AWD to traverse in the snow or other slippery conditions, know that AWD is only offered on the higher Mini Cooper trims. Also, there isn’t a driving mode for snow like rivals have. 

3. The Mini Cooper doesn’t feel luxurious 

For a luxurious crossover, the 2021 Mini Cooper is lacking. The interior is stiff instead of offering comforts that those with money can afford. The ride is also bumpy and harsh on rough roads, so the suspension could use some upgrading. 

This shouldn’t come as a surprise, but the Mini Cooper is tiny. The back seat is very cramped, and there is only up to 47.1 cubic feet of cargo space with the seats folded flat. Plus, in the convertible, the soft top takes up most of the truck room. 

Technology is limited in the Mini Cooper as well. It just got Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in 2020, and you have to upgrade to get those features. Aside from optional wireless charging, that’s about all the tech the Mini Cooper has to offer. 

While it does have adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking, the Mini Cooper is missing standard safety features. Where is the blind-spot detection, rear-cross traffic alert, and more?