Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2022 Mini Cooper S
Our scoring places the 2022 Mini Cooper S at 7.2/10 overall, which translates to a Good rating for this hatchback. Its strongest dimension is Safety at 7.6/10. 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. Reliability is the weak spot: 6.8/10, under the class average. Review the recall record on this page and price in extra maintenance headroom. The safety score of 7.6/10 is solid mid-pack territory. If advanced driver aids matter to you, compare standard equipment carefully and verify ratings at nhtsa.gov.
Performance scores 7.3/10 — competent for everyday use. Acceleration and handling are adequate for commuting and highway driving, though enthusiasts will want to look at higher-rated alternatives. Tech rates a reasonable 7.5/10: the essentials are covered and well executed, but rivals at the same price often include more as standard.
Priced from $34,681–$43,092, 28 MPG, seating 4, the Mini Cooper S sits in the mid-market bracket of the hatchback segment. The value score of 6.9/10 is a red flag — comparable alternatives offer meaningfully more for the same outlay. Shop the segment before deciding. At 4 years old, it's worth checking whether a newer generation or refresh has addressed any weaker dimensions — compare it to the current model year before buying.
Our take: The 2022 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 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 2022 Mini Cooper S ranks #58 of 99 hatchbacks in the Carivo database — better than 42% of the segment. Its 7.2/10 overall score is 0.2 points below the segment average of 7.4/10. Its $34,681 starting price is about 49% above the segment's median of $23,280.
Varies widely by driver and state — always quote the exact trim before buying
We only print costs we can compute from sourced data (EPA fuel economy, NHTSA recalls). We don't estimate maintenance or depreciation — anyone who gives you one number for those is guessing.
Which Cooper S Year Should You Buy?
Smart-money pick: the 2019 Mini Cooper S scores 7.0/10 — within striking distance of the 2022's 7.2 — 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.
Strong safety ratings from NHTSA and independent testers
Modern, intuitive tech suite with wireless connectivity and up-to-date ADAS
✗ 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
Common Questions — 2022 Mini Cooper S
Is the 2022 Mini Cooper S reliable?
We rate the 2022 Mini Cooper S's reliability 6.8/10 — below the segment average, so budget for higher maintenance.
Is the 2022 Mini Cooper S worth buying?
It scores 7.2/10 overall, ranking #58 of 99 hatchbacks in our database (better than 42% of the segment). Stronger-scoring alternatives exist at similar prices — use our compare tool before committing.
How much does the 2022 Mini Cooper S cost?
The 2022 Mini Cooper S starts at $34,681 and ranges up to $43,092 across trims (MSRP when new). At 28 MPG, expect roughly $1,875/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Which Cooper S years should you avoid?
No standout weak years: across the 12 Cooper S model years we've scored, every year lands within half a point of the best (7.3/10). Pick on price and condition rather than year.
Owner Essentials — Mini Cooper S
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More Mini Reviews
Explore the full lineup of Mini models scored by Carivo — ranked by overall score across reliability, safety, value, performance, and technology.
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