2019 MINI Hardtop 2 Door Review
2019 MINI Hardtop 2 Door Review





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Used Hardtop 2 Door for sale
MINI Hardtop 2 Door model years
MINI Hardtop 2 Door types
- Hatchback
- John Cooper Works
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Edmunds' Expert Review

byCameron Rogers
Manager, News
Cameron Rogers has worked in the automotive industry since 2013. He has tested and reviewed hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career. Today, he leads the news team in developing cutting-edge news articles, opinion pieces and sneak peeks at upcoming vehicles. Favorite cars that he's driven during his tenure at Edmunds include the 991-era Porsche 911 Turbo S, Rolls-Royce Ghost and several generations of Honda Odyssey (really).
Pros
- All available engines blend quickness and fuel efficiency
- Nimble handling helps keep the Hardtop glued to the road
- Many available add-ons mean a high degree of personalization
- Interior looks classy and upscale
Cons
- Ride can be stiff and choppy, especially with larger tires
- More expensive than most rivals
- Manual transmission has a vague clutch and shifter
- 1.5-liter and automatic transmission combo is clunky at low speeds
What's new
- Reconfigured options structure, with new Classic, Signature and Iconic trims
- Wireless phone charging and Apple CarPlay now available
- Updated infotainment system interface
- Part of the third Hardtop generation introduced for 2014
As more people plunk down cash for utilitarian crossovers, words such as "small," "fun" and "sporty" seem to describe fewer cars than ever. Luckily, the two-door 2019 Mini Hardtop encapsulates those hallmarks of enjoyable motoring in a single, pint-size package.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2019 MINI Hardtop 2 Door Cooper S 2dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.96 per gallon for premium unleaded in Virginia.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia
$183/mo
Hardtop 2 Door Cooper S
vs
$170/mo
Avg. Compact Car
The Mini Hardtop offers something quite different from other subcompacts. It prioritizes driving dynamics and personality. You pay dearly for the Hardtop's upscale cabin and sportiness, but there's nothing quite like it in the non-luxury segment. Even the Hardtop's standard turbocharged three-cylinder engine makes it quicker than almost any other car in its class. Step up to the turbo four-cylinders in the Cooper S and the John Cooper Works trims, and you've got enough pace to pull off a good, old-fashioned heist.
For 2019, Mini has changed the way it builds the Hardtop. In prior years, you selected an engine and then chose from a seemingly infinite number of packages and options. This year, each engine is available in one of three trims — Classic, Signature and Iconic — that bundle popular features into a traditional trim structure. From there, you can select many interior and exterior styling elements to personalize the Hardtop. The result is mostly the same, though. The 2019 Mini Hardtop 2 Door is fun to drive and fun to own.
Edmunds' Expert Rating
For discerning motorists looking for a fun and memorable car to drive, the 2019 Mini Hardtop is an excellent choice. It's expensive, but the cost is largely justified given the Hardtop's mix of performance, features and personality.
Trim tested
Each vehicle typically comes in multiple versions that are fundamentally similar. The ratings in this review are based on our full test of the Mini Hardtop 2 Door Cooper (turbo 1.5L inline-3 | 6-speed automatic | FWD).
NOTE: Since this test was conducted in 2014, the current Hardtop 2 Door has received some revisions, such as new optional equipment sprinkled throughout the model run and a refreshed infotainment system in 2019. Our findings remain broadly applicable to this year's Hardtop 2 Door, however.
Driving
The Hardtop's reputation for playful driving dynamics is confirmed, even on this base model. The high level of confidence encourages spirited driving, but the car stumbles during traffic-filled commuting, with unsavory lurches at low speeds from the optional six-speed automatic transmission.
Acceleration
Even in the base model, the Hardtop is one of the quickest cars in this class/price range. With only 134 horsepower on tap from a turbocharged three-cylinder, it manages an impressive 0-60 mph time of 7.4 seconds. But our test vehicle was prone to uneven acceleration and unexpected surges.
Braking
Stopping from 60 mph required 114 feet, a bit long for a car so small with summer tires. In everyday driving, the automatic transmission causes clumsy lurches as you roll to a stop.
Steering
The steering feel is sharp and direct, great for drivers with a penchant for curvy roads. For the typical commuter, it could feel a bit too busy or quick, particularly on the highway, as it reacts to small or unintentional inputs.
Handling
Even though this is just the base Cooper model, the Hardtop is surprisingly capable when cornering hard. The front tires lose grip first, but it's predictable and controllable. The Cooper feels playful and nimble thanks to its small footprint.
Drivability
The Mini Hardtop is a fun little car to blast through the canyons, but it suffers during more mundane driving. The lurches under slow acceleration and braking are the main culprits, along with a noticeable shudder through the cabin from the engine's stop-start function.
Comfort
The Mini doesn't rate high in comfort, thanks to its emphasis on athleticism. The stiff ride quality can be jarring, partially a result of our test car's optional 17-inch wheels and standard run-flat tires. Less spirited drivers should stick with the smaller standard wheels.
Seat comfort
The optional sport seats provide excellent all-around support for drivers with average builds. Wider body types will likely find the narrow, aggressive bolsters constricting or intrusive. Cushioning is adequate for longer drives.
Ride comfort
The Mini has a stiff ride quality with initial impact harshness that may be attributed to the larger optional wheels and run-flat tires. Enthusiasts will probably be OK with it, but we think most drivers will find it tiresome.
Noise & vibration
At idle, the three-cylinder engine has an unrefined diesel-like clatter. Once underway, it sounds much better, with a pleasant burble. There's a noticeable amount of road noise. And at highway speeds, there's some wind noise, too.
Interior
Although this latest-generation Mini Cooper is larger than ever, its interior space and cargo capacity are smaller than some rivals. The placement of the infotainment controller is far from ideal. But you do get a lot of personality.
Ease of use
Operating the low-mounted infotainment dial is challenging due to the obtrusive center armrest and parking brake. The system itself is well-executed, with many logically placed switches and buttons.
Getting in/getting out
The short (lengthwise) doors and tall opening make getting in and out of the front seats easy, even in tight spots. They do, however, complicate access to the rear seats, forcing an inelegant stoop and crawl.
Roominess
There's plenty of headroom in the front for taller drivers, but the Mini still feels quite compact because of its narrow width. The rear seats are cramped, even for children, with little legroom and low-mounted seat cushions.
Visibility
Outward visibility is excellent. The tall side windows and upright windshield afford a nearly unobstructed view, and the mirrors are thoughtfully placed and sized. A rearview camera now comes standard on all trim levels, but there's no need for one when backing into a tight parking spot.
Quality
For the most part, the Mini has excellent interior materials, using less hard plastic than competitors. Occasional creaks diminish the overall impression of quality a bit.
Utility
Cargo space is tight, at a tiny 8.7 cubic feet, as is interior storage with small but numerous bins. Maximum cargo is slightly above average at 38 cubes. A clever trunk floor panel keeps the load surface flat and conceals a bin underneath.
Which Hardtop 2 Door does Edmunds recommend?
The base Cooper is a terrific choice if you are looking for a fun, playful subcompact with more personality than other cars in its class. It's not quick, however, and if it were our money, we'd upgrade to the Cooper S and give our Hardtop a bit more oomph to back up its superlative handling characteristics. No matter which powertrain you prefer, we recommend starting with the Signature trim. There are more optional extras at this level, giving the Hardtop that custom feel Mini is known for.
2019 MINI Hardtop 2 Door models
The 2019 Mini Hardtop two-door is a subcompact hatchback sold in a variety of trim levels and variants. All three of the main trim levels — Cooper, Cooper S and John Cooper Works — have similar feature content but are differentiated by what engine is underhood. All are available with a six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed automatic. From there, buyers choose between three subtrim levels (Classic, Signature and Iconic) that add an increasing number of features. A wide variety of styling, performance and luxury upgrades are available on most versions.
Powering the Cooper is a turbocharged three-cylinder engine (134 horsepower, 162 pound-feet of torque). The base Classic model offers a lot of features, including 15-inch alloy wheels, all-season tires, automatic headlights and wipers, heated mirrors, rear parking sensors, height-adjustable front seats, simulated-leather upholstery, a leather-wrapped tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, a 60/40-split folding rear seat and multicolor ambient lighting. Among the standard tech are Bluetooth, a 6.5-inch central display, a rearview camera, and a six-speaker sound system with a USB port.
Stepping up to the Cooper S gets you a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (189 hp, 207 lb-ft). It also has 16-inch wheels, dual exhaust tips, extra styling flourishes, selectable driving modes, and front sport seats with adjustable thigh support. Steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters are included if you opt for the automatic transmission.
The most powerful Hardtop 2 Door is the John Cooper Works model. Motivation comes in the form of a more potent version of the turbocharged four-cylinder (228 hp, 236 lb-ft). Upgrades include 17-inch wheels, LED headlights, cornering lights, a rear spoiler, a sport-tuned suspension,a sport steering wheel, more aggressively bolstered sport seats, and simulated-suede and cloth upholstery.
Features added by the Signature subtrim differ slightly from the base Cooper, S and JCW. But in general, it adds a panoramic sunroof, keyless entry, heated front seats and dual-zone automatic climate control. Cooper models get 16-inch wheels, Cooper S versions get 16- or 17-inch wheels, and JCW models get adaptive dampers. Mini's Active Driving Assistant suite of safety features — forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control and automatic high-beam control — is also included on Cooper S and JCW models. Selecting the Signature trim also opens the door to additional paint choices, interior dashboard appliques and upholstery choices. Notably, the JCW's Solaris Orange Special Edition package (late availability) starts with the Signature trim and includes black exterior trim, all-season tires and a head-up display.
The Signature's Premium package further adds power-folding mirrors, auto-dimming interior and exterior mirrors, chrome exterior trim, LED headlights and foglights, cornering lights, satellite radio and a 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system.
The Iconic trim includes those upgrades, plus leather upholstery, a navigation system, the Active Driving Assistant package, wireless charging, Apple CarPlay and an 8.8-inch touchscreen. Depending on powertrain, selecting the Iconic trim will add different features. Cooper and Cooper S models get a choice of several 16- and 17-inch wheel styles (with 18-inch wheels available for the Cooper S), and 17- or 18-inch wheels for the JCW. Cooper S and JCW models also get a head-up display.
Many of the above options can be ordered separately. A Driver Assistance package for the Iconic trim adds front parking sensors and an automated parallel parking system. Additional stand-alone options include exterior and interior styling modifications, summer performance tires and roof rails.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2019 MINI Hardtop 2 Door.
5 star(79%)
4 star(11%)
3 star(0%)
2 star(5%)
1 star(5%)
19 reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
5 out of 5 stars
Best Yet
Bill - Seattle, 09/21/2019
2019 MINI Hardtop 2 Door Cooper S 2dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
I had a 2006 for 12 years, loved it, and gave it to our daughter. I never thought I'd love the 2019 as much. OMG, it's TWICE the fun to drive, and the best car I've owned in 50 years of driving, including 3 old Porsches. The Cooper S coupe can be hot in sport mode, but still have more than enough acceleration in green mode.I got the manual because the driving experience is awesome ! I … always take the long way home. .Looks great, moonwalk grey- easiest car to keep clean I've owned.
4 out of 5 stars
Mini tidbits
Cathy Levin, 06/10/2018
2018 MINI Hardtop 2 Door Cooper S 2dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
Seats are difficult sitting for long periods of time if you have any lower back issues. Electronics not intuitive for older generation! Love everything else
2 out of 5 stars
Should have kept my 2015 model
Mr Pearce, 10/11/2018
2019 MINI Hardtop 2 Door Cooper 2dr Hatchback (1.5L 3cyl Turbo 6M)
Recently upgraded my lease to the 2019 model in solaris orange. I regret the decision 100%. Acceleration is poor as the automatic gearbox struggle to work out which gear it should be in. In turn, this means there is significant turbo lag. On motorways this performance issue is obvious, especially when changing lanes. In city traffic, good luck accelerating out of a corner. Also gone in … the 2019 model is the hidden dash storage above the glove box and the netting storage pouces on the sides of the footwells. I opted not to get the premium sound upgrade - a choice I regret. The audio quality is like that on a Versa or Rio with less speakers. A very sad Mini.
5 out of 5 stars
More Enjoyable With Every Drive
DG1, 09/17/2020
2018 MINI Hardtop 2 Door Cooper 2dr Hatchback (1.5L 3cyl Turbo 6M)
We had an ‘08 Cooper S automatic for a couple of years; great rabid-squirrel-like acceleration and tight/harsh go-cart handling. Exciting car to drive but unrefined (and had a serious throttle lag issue). Fast forward to our ‘18 Cooper non-S (but still turbo 3-cylinder) with Premium Package, automatic trans, etc. This car continues to impress every time I drive it. Tight build … quality, comfortable but fun driving, great fuel economy and premium feel. I have driven everything from old 3-cylinder Geo Metros to BMWs, 420HP Mustangs and our current 330HP Jeep Commander...this Mini delivers effortless low-rev acceleration/handling while returning 33mpg city/42mpg highway (during our ownership). This one’s a long-term keeper. The only negative I can think of is that we wished it would have stayed as small as the previous generation.
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2019 MINI Hardtop 2 Door, so we've included reviews for other years of the Hardtop 2 Door since its last redesign.
2019 MINI Hardtop 2 Door Hatchback Features & Specs
- Base MSRP
- $21,900
- MPG & Fuel
- 28 City / 38 Hwy / 32 Combined
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 11.6 gal. capacity
- Seating
- 4 seats
- Drivetrain
- Type: front wheel drive
- Transmission: 6-speed manual
- Engine
- Inline 3 cylinder
- Horsepower: 134 hp @ 4,400 rpm
- Torque: 162 lb-ft @ 1,250 rpm
- Basic Warranty
- 4 yr./ 50,000 mi.
- Dimensions
- Length: 151.1 in. / Height: 55.7 in.
- Overall Width with Mirrors: 76.1 in.
- Overall Width without Mirrors: 68.0 in.
- Curb Weight: 2,625 lbs.
- Cargo Capacity, All Seats In Place: 8.7 cu.ft.
Safety
Our experts like the Hardtop 2 Door models:
- Parking Assistant
- Finds an available parallel parking spot and guides the Hardtop into the space with minimal driver input.
- Front and Rear Park Distance Control
- Sounds an alert as the Hardtop approaches an object in front of or behind the vehicle.
- Active Driving Assistant
- Maintains a set distance between the Hardtop and the vehicle in front while the cruise control system is active.
NHTSA Overall Rating
4 out of 5 starsThe National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverall4 / 5Driver4 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverall4 / 5
- Side Barrier RatingOverall4 / 5Driver5 / 5Passenger3 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront Seat5 / 5Back Seat3 / 5
- RolloverRollover4 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of Rollover11.1%
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Side Impact TestGood
- Roof Strength TestGood
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintGood
- IIHS Small Overlap Front TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front TestGood
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More about the 2019 MINI Hardtop 2 Door
Used 2019 MINI Hardtop 2 Door Overview
The Used 2019 MINI Hardtop 2 Door is offered in the following submodels: Hardtop 2 Door Hatchback, Hardtop 2 Door John Cooper Works. Available styles include Cooper S 2dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M), Cooper 2dr Hatchback (1.5L 3cyl Turbo 6M), and John Cooper Works 2dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M). Pre-owned MINI Hardtop 2 Door models are available with a 2.0 L-liter gas engine or a 1.5 L-liter gas engine, with output up to 228 hp, depending on engine type. The Used 2019 MINI Hardtop 2 Door comes with front wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 6-speed manual.
What's a good price on a Used 2019 MINI Hardtop 2 Door?
Price comparisons for Used 2019 MINI Hardtop 2 Door trim styles:
- The Used 2019 MINI Hardtop 2 Door Cooper is priced between $17,919 and$25,590 with odometer readings between 4597 and68841 miles.
- The Used 2019 MINI Hardtop 2 Door Cooper S is priced between $16,499 and$28,772 with odometer readings between 11017 and108045 miles.
- The Used 2019 MINI Hardtop 2 Door John Cooper Works is priced between $29,000 and$33,990 with odometer readings between 9773 and40022 miles.
Shop with Edmunds for perks and special offers on used cars, trucks, and SUVs near Ashburn, VA. Doing so could save you hundreds or thousands of dollars. Edmunds also provides consumer-driven dealership sales and service reviews to help you make informed decisions about what cars to buy and where to buy them.
Which used 2019 MINI Hardtop 2 Doors are available in my area?
Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2019 MINI Hardtop 2 Door for sale near. There are currently 58 used and CPO 2019 Hardtop 2 Doors listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as $16,499 and mileage as low as 4597 miles. Simply research the type of car you're interested in and then select a used car from our massive database to find cheap prew-owned vehicles for sale near you. Once you have identified a used vehicle you're interested in, check the AutoCheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the Used 2019 MINI Hardtop 2 Door.
Can't find a used 2019 MINI Hardtop 2 Doors you want in your area? Consider a broader search.
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Should I lease or buy a 2019 MINI Hardtop 2 Door?
Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.
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