MINI Cooper S (02-06) - Review

Review by Parkers on
Strapping a supercharger to the MINI Cooper has elevated performance to a level that most other road users don’t expect. Those cutesy looks suggest a funky shopping car. This rather rubs salt into the wounds of other performance car drivers when they get left for dead on a twisty road. It takes a keen eye to pick out the bonnet scoop that is the only reliable visual indication the this is the hot Mini rather than just a tarted-up One. John Cooper can add a ‘Works’ performance pack that makes the MINI virtually untouchable on a country road.
4.5 out of 5

Other MINI reviews

4 out of 5

Performance

The Chrysler-developed engine is not the most refined unit but it delivers the goods and the supercharger sounds reminiscent of the original Mini’s gear whine (which we reckon is a good thing). A six-speed gearbox replaces the five-speeder fitted to lesser models. An official John Cooper 'Works' conversion ups power to 200bhp making it extremely fast. The original Cooper S model had 163bhp which was lifted to 170bhp in 2004 when the Convertible was launched.

4.5 out of 5

Handling

The MINI is blessed with great handling and it seems to delight in being chucked into the corners with gusto. Big wheel upgrades add extra grip but we prefer its adjustability on the standard wheels and the ride is better too. Steering is quick and full of feedback – you'll have to watch your shopping in the boot.

  • Moving Exterior MINI Cooper S (02-06)
  • Moving Exterior MINI Cooper S (02-06)
  • Moving Exterior MINI Cooper S (02-06)

View full gallery