Used Mini buying guide
About Mini
Celebrated for its British origins, the Mini automotive brand is full of fun and personality, while also gaining praise for its passenger-pleasing tech, no doubt influenced by its parent company, BMW. Mini models are instantly recognizable. The Mini Cooper, available as a hardtop or convertible, nods back to retro models. The versatile Clubman and the practical Countryman build on Mini's instant curb appeal, adding a bigger footprint for extra cargo and comforts.
In recent years, Mini has also embraced electrification, introducing hybrid and all-electric versions of its popular models. According to RepairPal, the Mini brand’s average repair and scheduled maintenance costs are higher than the automotive industry average.
What CarMax customers like
Ride and Handling
Fuel Economy
Power
What CarMax customers don’t like
Cost to Maintain
Cabin Noise
Cargo Space
Mini FAQs
There are several factors you should consider, no matter the model year. These include total mileage, trim features, and the service history of a vehicle. What's best for your personal preferences is subjective. However, the third-generation Mini Cooper (2014-2024) had some great style and feature upgrades in 2016, an updated infotainment offering in 2019, and in 2022, it received an exterior design refresh.
According to RepairPal data, the Mini Cooper has an overall reliability rating of 3.0 out of 5.0, which is considered average. When measured against other models in the subcompact vehicle category, it trails behind, ranking 21st out of 21. It also has higher than average annual repair and maintenance costs, averaging $846 compared to the subcompact sector average of $456.
Mileage matters when shopping for a used Mini, as it can potentially be a good indicator of time-served wear and tear. But that's only part of the story. According to our recent article on mileage vs maintenance, knowing how a vehicle was driven and maintained is just as important. Alongside mileage, check the model’s service records or vehicle history report.
While the Mini Cooper boasts a globally recognized and beloved silhouette, it's the Mini Countryman that continues to turn heads thanks to its larger size. This compact SUV combines iconic Mini styling with added versatility, offering more cargo space, a higher ride height, and the option of all-wheel drive. The 2018-2023 Mini Countryman lineup also includes a PHEV version capable of electric-only miles, albeit in low numbers.
The Mini Cooper hardtop and convertible models are fun to drive and ideal for carefree days, whether that's a first freshman term or a bustling retirement. Given the Cooper's size, they’re a cinch to park too. The practical Mini Clubman has split rear doors and ample cargo space, suiting hobbyists and pet owners. The Countryman is more rugged-looking with its subcompact SUV body style.
In 2020, Mini introduced the all-electric Cooper Hardtop SE, based on the two-door Cooper Hardtop S. The 2020-2024 Cooper SE is powered by a 181-hp electric motor and onboard battery, while the Cooper S features a turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder gas engine. Both versions offer similar interior styling, infotainment setups, and tech features.
1. Mini Cooper Clubman
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2. Mini Cooper Countryman
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3. Mini Cooper Paceman
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4. Mini Cooper
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RepairPal reliability ratings
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features. RepairPal Reliability Ratings are provided by RepairPal and CarMax is not responsible for their accuracy. These ratings are based on RepairPal Reliability data as of August 2023. Learn more about RepairPal reliability ratings.
Unless otherwise noted, information related to these featured vehicles comes from third-party sources, including manufacturer information. We make every effort to provide accurate information, but please verify before purchasing. Product and company names may be trademarks or registered trademarks of third-party entities. Use of them does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by these entities. We hope you found this information helpful. This content is intended to inform and is not meant to indicate that a particular vehicle is currently available or recommended for you.
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are provided by RepairPal and CarMax is not responsible for their accuracy. These ratings are based on RepairPal Reliability data as of 3/18/2025. Learn more at repairpal.com/reliability.
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Various factors may impact towing capacity, including weight of passengers, cargo, and options/accessories.
Fuel economy figures are based on EPA estimates for when vehicle sold as new. Fuel economy may vary for reasons like driving conditions and vehicle history. Unless specified, figures are for vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission. See fueleconomy.gov.
Range figures are based on EPA estimates for when vehicle sold as new and assume a full battery charge. Range will vary based on things like battery age, vehicle condition and history, driving and charging habits, accessory use, and driving conditions. Battery capacity may decrease with time and use. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.
We hope you found this information helpful. This content is intended to inform and is not meant to indicate that a particular vehicle is currently available or recommended for you.
Statements of fuel economy or EV range are based on EPA and other third-party estimates for vehicles when new. Fuel economy and EV range will degrade with time and vary based on age, driving conditions, vehicle history, and other conditions. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.
Unless otherwise noted, information related to featured vehicles comes from third-party sources, including manufacturer information. Product and company names may be trademarks or registered trademarks of third-party entities. Use of them does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by these entities. By clicking on any video links, you will be taken to a third-party site maintained by YouTube, Inc.
We make every effort to provide accurate information, but please verify before purchasing.