CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.6 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 32.7%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.4 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 3,000
Average Price: Around £11,500

MINI (2013-present) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Lively and entertaining to drive	The Convertible has a small boot
The EV is ideal around town	Ungainly looks if you choose the five-door
John Cooper Works GP cars are very quick	More powerful models can wear out tyres quickly

Quick Summary

The MINI (2013-present), codenamed F56, is the third generation of BMW's iconic hatchback. Larger and more practical than its predecessors, it arrives with an all-new platform and turbocharged engine range from 134bhp in the Cooper to 302bhp in the John Cooper Works. A five-door variant offers improved rear legroom, whilst a Convertible with a powered fabric hood provides open-air motoring. Since 2019, an all-electric model has been available, offering zero-emission urban driving with a real-world range of around 100 miles.

The MINI maintains its legendary go-kart-like agility and entertaining handling whilst delivering surprising comfort and low noise levels. The interior features high-quality materials, an excellent driving position, and BMW-sourced iDrive controls. Running costs vary significantly by powertrain; the Electric is cheapest at around £9 per charge, whilst diesels achieve 50mpg-plus and petrol models return up to 35mpg. The transferable TLC servicing package covers maintenance for five years or 50,000 miles, offering substantial savings. Road tax ranges from nothing for the Electric to £585 for the John Cooper Works GP.

Best for: Drivers seeking entertaining, agile handling with premium quality, those wanting an electric city car, buyers after a stylish convertible, and enthusiasts looking for an affordable hot hatch (John Cooper Works).

Not ideal for: Those needing maximum rear legroom (three-door), buyers prioritising boot space (Convertible), or those seeking the lowest running costs across all variants.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the MINI if: You value entertaining, agile handling with premium quality, seek an electric city car, want a stylish convertible, or desire an affordable hot hatch (John Cooper Works).

Consider alternatives if: You need maximum rear legroom, prioritise boot space, or require the lowest running costs across all variants.

Competitive Position: The MINI (2013-present) stands out in the premium city car segment with superior driving dynamics and quality. Whilst rivals like the Fiat 500 and DS 3 offer better value deals, the MINI delivers more engaging handling and a broader range of powertrains, including an electric option. The Audi A1 provides comparable quality but less character. The MINI's versatility—from practical five-door to thrilling John Cooper Works GP—makes it the most complete offering, though at a premium price. For enthusiasts prioritising driving enjoyment over value, the MINI is the standout choice.

Read our full MINI Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from June 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.