Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2020 Mini Cooper S
The 2020 Mini Cooper S is a hatchback that earns a Carivo score of 7.1/10 — rated Good. Its strongest dimension is Safety at 7.4/10. It's a capable but unexceptional hatchback — 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. At 6.6/10 for reliability, this hatchback trails its segment. That doesn't rule it out, but go in with eyes open on running costs. Safety lands at 7.4/10 — solid, though some rivals offer more advanced driver-assist features as standard. Confirm official results for your trim at nhtsa.gov/ratings.
With 7.4/10 for performance, this is a car tuned for daily driving rather than excitement — perfectly capable on the commute, unremarkable on a back road. At 7.4/10 for technology, the infotainment and driver-assist package does its job without setting benchmarks — check which features cost extra on lower trims.
Priced from $32,467–$42,040, 26 MPG, seating 4, the Mini Cooper S sits in the mid-market bracket of the hatchback segment. At 7.0/10 for value, it delivers fair pricing for what's on offer, though the best alternatives in this price range score slightly higher. At 6 years old, resale value, parts availability, and whether a successor model has improved on its weak points are all worth investigating before committing.
Verdict: The 2020 Mini Cooper S sits in the middle of the field. Until its reliability scores improve, stronger options exist at this price. Worth a look if it fits a specific need; otherwise use our compare tool against the segment leaders first.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
How It Ranks Among Hatchbacks
The 2020 Mini Cooper S ranks #70 of 99 hatchbacks in the Carivo database — better than 30% of the segment. Its 7.1/10 overall score is 0.3 points below the segment average of 7.4/10. Its $32,467 starting price is about 39% above the segment's median of $23,280.
Smart-money pick: the 2017 Mini Cooper S scores 6.9/10 — within striking distance of the 2020's 7.1 — and starts roughly $3,500 lower. If you don't need the newest model year, that's money better spent on a higher trim or kept in your pocket.
Available in a range of trims to suit different budgets
✗ Where it falls short
Reliability scores are mid-pack; some owners report higher-than-expected maintenance needs
Driving dynamics are adequate but uninspiring; not the choice for enthusiast drivers
Tech suite is functional but lags behind segment-best options; some features cost extra
NHTSA Recalls — 2020 Mini Cooper S (2 on record)
The following recall campaigns have been filed with NHTSA for this model and year. Recall repairs are performed free of charge by franchised dealers; check your specific vehicle by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Air bags / air bag/restraint control module 20/05/2020 · 20V283000
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2020 X1 xDrive28i, X1 sDrive28i, X2 xDrive28i and X2 sDrive28i, 2020 MINI Clubman Cooper S All4, 2021 MINI Hardtop 2 Door (Cooper, Cooper S, John Cooper Works and Cooper S E) and MINI Hardtop 4 Door…
Structure 28/08/2019 · 19V634000
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2020 MINI Hardtop 2-Door Cooper, Cooper S, and JCW vehicles. The rear side trim panels may have been assembled without a crash pad. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of…
Source: NHTSA recall database, fetched at page build time.
Common Questions — 2020 Mini Cooper S
Is the 2020 Mini Cooper S reliable?
We rate the 2020 Mini Cooper S's reliability 6.6/10 — below the segment average, so budget for higher maintenance. It has 2 NHTSA recall campaigns on record for this model year (details in the recalls section above — repairs are free at dealers).
How many recalls does the 2020 Mini Cooper S have?
2 NHTSA recall campaigns matched this model and year as of our latest check. Verify your specific vehicle by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Is the 2020 Mini Cooper S worth buying?
It scores 7.1/10 overall, ranking #70 of 99 hatchbacks in our database (better than 30% of the segment). Stronger-scoring alternatives exist at similar prices — use our compare tool before committing.
How much does the 2020 Mini Cooper S cost?
The 2020 Mini Cooper S starts at $32,467 and ranges up to $42,040 across trims (MSRP when new). At 26 MPG, expect roughly $2,019/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Owner Essentials — Mini Cooper S
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More Mini Reviews
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