2015 MINI Cooper Coupe

2015 MINI Cooper Coupe Overview

Is the 2015 Mini Cooper Coupe a Good Used Car?

There’s a lot to like about the Cooper Coupe’s performance. Still, you’re better off with one of the Mini’s rivals, which offer smoother rides, user-friendly features, better rearward visibility, and higher marks for reliability.

Used 2015 Mini Cooper Coupe Performance and Interior

The Mini Cooper Coupe comes standard with a 121-horsepower four-cylinder engine, a six-speed manual transmission, and front-wheel drive. The base engine delivers decent performance, but the Cooper S and John Cooper Works (JCW) models up the ante with more power and quicker acceleration. Each has a turbocharged four-cylinder engine – one at 181 horsepower and the other at 208 horsepower. A six-speed automatic transmission is available in all models, though sports enthusiasts will appreciate the manual gearbox’s near-effortless operation.

The fun-to-drive Mini Coupe has deft handling and precise steering, along with strong stopping power – especially with the JCW trim’s higher-performance Brembo brakes. The available sport-tuned suspension improves cornering ability, but it makes the ride too firm for some. The Cooper Coupe returns 27 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway, which is decent for the class.

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With a posh feel and a funky design, the Mini Cooper Coupe has a memorable interior for mostly good reasons. Still, the cabin materials aren’t as nice as what you’ll find in similarly priced vehicles. All Cooper Coupes offer seating for two, leatherette or leather seating surfaces, and other available upgrades like Recaro sports seats and heated seats. The cabin has good headroom but can still feel cramped for some folks. Also, visibility is poor out of the rear window.

Standard features include automatic climate control, push-button start, a six-speaker audio system, Bluetooth, HD Radio, and a USB port. Available equipment consists of a 10-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system, navigation, satellite radio, and heated power-folding mirrors. An available infotainment system employs a 6.5-inch display and a centralized control knob, which isn’t as easy to use as what other subcompact cars offer.

The Cooper Coupe’s control layout is one that prioritizes form over function. While the central speedometer and other gauges add flair, they relegate the climate controls to a position that’s too low for most drivers.

Read more about Cooper Coupe interior »

Used 2015 Mini Cooper Coupe Prices

Used 2015 Mini Cooper Coupes range from about $17,000 for a base model to around $25,200 for a JCW trim. Pricing shifts with demand and may vary depending on the vehicle's condition, mileage, and location.

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We Did the Research for You: 26 Reviews Analyzed

Instead of basing our reviews on our personal opinions, we analyze the findings of the automotive press alongside data like reliability ratings and safety scores.

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U.S. News & World Report has been ranking cars, trucks, and SUVs for a decade. Our team has over 75 years of automotive industry experience. To remain objective, we don't accept expensive gifts or trips from car companies. Also, an outside team handles the ads on our site.

How Reliable Is the 2015 Mini Cooper Coupe?

The 2015 Mini Cooper Coupe has a predicted reliability rating of 2.5 out of five, which is a lower score than most of its rivals’. Three is average among all cars on the road.

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How Safe Is the Cooper Coupe?

The 2015 Mini Cooper Coupe has not undergone crash testing with either the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Rain-sensing windshield wipers and dynamic traction control come standard, while adaptive headlights and rear parking sensors are available. The Mini Coupe doesn’t offer several popular safety features, like a rearview camera or adaptive cruise control.

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Should I Consider Another Used Cooper Coupe?

Mini produced the Cooper Coupe for the 2012 through 2015 model years. For 2013, the Coupe gained standard Bluetooth and a USB port, satellite radio became available instead of standard, and JCW models offered an automatic transmission for the first time. There were no major changes for 2014, but the 2015 model expanded its standard features, adding automatic climate control and rain-sensing windshield wipers. Also, LED fog lights became available for 2015.

Compare the 2013, 2014, and 2015 Cooper Coupe »

Which Used Mini Cooper Coupe Is Right for Me?

The 2015 Mini Coupe comes in three trim levels: Cooper, Cooper S, and John Cooper Works (JCW). Because the base Coupe has an underwhelming engine, consider the Cooper S Coupe instead. It comes with a larger 181-horsepower turbo-four, similar fuel economy to the base model, sport seats, and 16- or 17-inch alloy wheels.

For added peace of mind, consider a certified pre-owned Cooper Coupe. Mini’s certified pre-owned program offers two levels of warranty coverage based on the vehicle’s age and mileage. The original new-car warranty is extended to five years or 75,000 miles for CPO vehicles with more than 300 miles but less than 36,001 miles. The original new-car warranty is extended to six years or 100,000 miles for CPO vehicles with more than 36,001 miles. Each Mini must pass an inspection to become certified pre-owned. Additional benefits like towing and roadside assistance may be available, so read the Mini warranty page carefully.

Read more about certified pre-owned vehicles »

Read more about the Mini certified pre-owned program »

2015 Mini Cooper Coupe and Other Cars to Consider

Which Is Better: 2015 Mini Cooper Coupe or 2015 Mazda MX-5 Miata?

The Mazda MX-5 Miata has sharp handling and an average predicted reliability rating, with pricing and ownership costs that are in line with the Cooper Coupe. Although it can’t match the Cooper Coupe’s good fuel economy and numerous standard features, the MX-5 Miata is a more well-rounded two-seater than the Mini. The Miata has more standard horsepower, a comfortable ride, and controls that are easier to use.

Which Is Better: 2015 Mini Cooper Coupe or 2015 Mini Cooper Roadster?

The Mini Cooper Roadster is the soft-top convertible version of the Cooper Coupe. If you’re looking to cruise around and scoop up the sun, it’s a reasonable alternative. However, the Roadster carries a slightly heftier price tag than the Coupe.

Compare the Cooper Coupe, MX-5 Miata, and Cooper Roadster »