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Independent review & score by Carivo
| Seating Capacity | 4 passengers |
|---|---|
| Body Style | Hatchback |
| Base Price | $29,147â$38,861 |
Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
The 2017 Mini Cooper S is a hatchback that earns a Carivo score of 6.9/10 â rated Good. Its strongest dimension is Safety at 7.2/10. It's a capable but unexceptional hatchback â stronger alternatives exist if you're willing to shop the segment carefully.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. Reliability is a concern at 6.4/10 â below the segment average. Owner data and service history suggest higher-than-expected maintenance needs. Factor this into your total cost of ownership calculation before buying. Safety lands at 7.2/10 â solid scores across crash testing with a reasonable standard safety package, though some rivals offer more advanced driver-assist features as standard.
Performance scores 7.2/10 â competent for everyday use. Acceleration and handling are adequate for commuting and highway driving, though enthusiasts looking for a more engaged driving experience will want to look at higher-rated alternatives. Technology comes in at 7.1/10 â functional and modern, with wireless connectivity and core ADAS features, though some competitors pack more standard tech at this price point.
Priced from $29,147â$38,861, 23 MPG, seating 4, the Mini Cooper S sits in the mid-market bracket of the hatchback segment. The value score of 6.6/10 is a red flag â comparable alternatives offer meaningfully more for the same outlay. Shop the segment before deciding. At 9 years old, resale value, parts availability, and whether a successor model has improved on its weak points are all worth investigating before committing.
Our take: The 2017 Mini Cooper S is a passable hatchback but not a standout one. Weaknesses in value and reliability hold it back from being a strong recommendation. It may suit buyers with specific needs it serves well, but we'd encourage comparing at least two or three higher-scored alternatives before deciding.
Carivo scores are built from NHTSA crash-test results, EPA fuel-economy figures, manufacturer-published specifications, and long-term owner reliability data. Every score is reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology â
Explore the full lineup of Mini models scored by Carivo â ranked by overall score across reliability, safety, value, performance, and technology.