CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.6 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 33.5%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.4 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 3,000
Average Price: Around £12,000

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

Now in its third generation under BMW's stewardship, the MINI remains one of the most alluring hatchbacks on sale. The current F56 model arrived in early 2014 and is bigger than its predecessor, featuring an all-new platform and engine range. A five-door version followed, offering improved rear seat space and practicality. The engine line-up includes turbocharged petrol units ranging from 134bhp in the Cooper to 302bhp in the John Cooper Works, plus diesel options and an all-electric model available since 2019. The Convertible variant features a powered fabric hood, whilst the MINI Clubman estate and Countryman SUV offer additional space options.

The MINI delivers lively, entertaining handling with quick steering and firm suspension, maintaining its famous go-kart-like agility. The interior retains a high-quality feel with excellent driving position and sensible controls, including a rotary iDrive knob and physical heating controls. Running costs vary significantly by powertrain; the Electric is cheapest at around £9 to charge for 100 miles, whilst diesels achieve 50mpg-plus and petrol models around 35mpg. The transferable TLC servicing package covers costs for five years or 50,000 miles. Road tax ranges from nothing for the Electric to £585 for the John Cooper Works GP in year one, then £165 annually.

Best for: Drivers seeking a fun, entertaining hatchback with premium styling and personalisation options, urban commuters (especially the EV), and those wanting a hot hatch (John Cooper Works variants).

Not ideal for: Buyers needing maximum rear seat space (three-door particularly), those prioritising boot capacity, or drivers seeking the lowest running costs on a budget.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the MINI if: You seek a fun, entertaining hatchback with premium styling and personalisation options, you're an urban commuter (especially with the EV), or you want an affordable hot hatch (John Cooper Works variants).

Consider alternatives if: You need maximum rear seat space, prioritise boot capacity, or require the lowest running costs on a budget.

Competitive Position: The MINI (2013-present) stands out as the most engaging and premium option in the city car segment, offering superior driving dynamics and quality interior compared to rivals like the Fiat 500 and DS 3. Whilst the Audi A1 matches it for overall rating, the MINI's versatility—with five-door, Convertible, and electric options—gives it an edge. The MINI's expert rating of 4/5 exceeds its competitors, reflecting its entertaining handling and quality. However, the Fiat 500 and DS 3 offer better value deals, making them attractive for budget-conscious buyers. The MINI remains the choice for those prioritising driving enjoyment and premium appeal over maximum practicality or lowest cost.

Read our full MINI Review

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