Mini Cooper review – MPG and running costs
An over-specification of the available powertrains makes most Minis surprisingly efficient
Given the Mini was originally conceived as a solution for an oil crisis, the current car really should be a frugal proposition. It proves so, too, as all feature stop-start to cut out any unnecessary idling when standing still. Mini benefits from all of BMW’s Efficient Dynamics technology and turbocharging expertise. The result is a choice of cars that avoid the pumps commendably.
The Cooper achieves 52.3mpg and emissions of 122g/km, with even the four-cylinder Cooper S managing 44.1mpg as a three-door – on paper, at least. Opting for the automatic or five-door in all worsens these figures slightly, so if you’re watching the pennies – and trying to lessen your tax burden – choose wisely.
Mini pioneered fixed-price servicing packages and the TLC pack remains a popular and cost-efficient way of running the Mini, with five years or 50,000 miles of servicing. Add high residual values and sensible insurance costs and the Mini can be run for comparatively little money, particularly when you take into account its premium positioning.
