2012 MINI Cooper Reviews, Pricing & Specs
What owners say
"Most owners of the 2012 MINI Cooper find it to be a fun and easy car to drive, often describing it as having excellent handling and a comfortable ride for its size. Many appreciate the unique design and features, including good technology for its price. However, some drivers have noted issues, such as lack of power in the base model and concerns about reliability with certain components needing attention. Overall, it seems to be a stylish choice that offers good fuel efficiency, but buyers should be aware of potential quirks and maintenance needs."
Great Car. Over all condition was well kept for the age of vehicle. A few aftermarket options but not over the top. Vehicle seems well maintained.
July 24, 2025I just bought my first MINI, a 2012 base model with 76000 miles in pepper white. This car was very well kept for its age and I had seen many that werent. It has many things you wouldnt expect for the price point, like ambient lighting, basic technology like bluetooth, radio, and aux. There are some things that are a bit of a learning curve like the switches for the window located in the middle and uniquely layed out controls, but all of this is expected with a non American car and in my opinion makes it special. One thing I heard a lot was that sound system without the updated Harman kardon was muddy and awful. I dont think this is true. Its pretty decent in my opinion and I had bose in my last car, just dont expect it to blow your socks off. The base model without turbo doesnt have a ton of power, which is a given, but with the car being light it is pretty peppy. The sport mode also makes a big difference and allows smooth transition. It also takes tight turns and winding roads like a champ. The turn radius on the thing is awesome. If youre looking for a fun car with decent mpg and nice looks this is the one.
September 14, 2020I love Minis and this one was super clean. It is fun to drive and very comfortable for its’ size. There really is no comparison to the Mini, it has a BMW motor.
October 28, 2020What owners say
Great Car. Over all condition was well kept for the age of vehicle. A few aftermarket options but not over the top. Vehicle seems well maintained.
July 24, 2025I just bought my first MINI, a 2012 base model with 76000 miles in pepper white. This car was very well kept for its age and I had seen many that werent. It has many things you wouldnt expect for the price point, like ambient lighting, basic technology like bluetooth, radio, and aux. There are some things that are a bit of a learning curve like the switches for the window located in the middle and uniquely layed out controls, but all of this is expected with a non American car and in my opinion makes it special. One thing I heard a lot was that sound system without the updated Harman kardon was muddy and awful. I dont think this is true. Its pretty decent in my opinion and I had bose in my last car, just dont expect it to blow your socks off. The base model without turbo doesnt have a ton of power, which is a given, but with the car being light it is pretty peppy. The sport mode also makes a big difference and allows smooth transition. It also takes tight turns and winding roads like a champ. The turn radius on the thing is awesome. If youre looking for a fun car with decent mpg and nice looks this is the one.
September 14, 2020I love Minis and this one was super clean. It is fun to drive and very comfortable for its’ size. There really is no comparison to the Mini, it has a BMW motor.
October 28, 2020Love this car - brakes are amazing (ABS of course), handling is amazing (DSC - Dynamic Stability Control - incorporates Corner Brake Control, Brake force distribution, ABS etc), performance is good, although the Cooper S does give a brilliant kick. Included is a full maintenance plan, so there are no repair/servicing costs. Small fuel tank, 40l, but it gets you very far... if you like to be noticed, then this is definitely the car for you!
January 25, 2013The car looked good, but had a number of service lights on and the suspension rattled on all 4 corners. It was going to require a lot of work to make it right.
August 20, 2020With the clean body lines, aggressive handling, and a turbocharger that kicks you in the rear its hard not to love this car. Can definitely be harsh on speed bumps and doesn't get outstanding gas mileage but at the end of the day it does the job and then some.
June 24, 2014I think the car will be a good fit. Fun to drive and get good gas mileage. It will be much easier to park than my F150 Lariat
April 19, 2022I really liked how well it does on fuel, it take me about $40 to fill it up and it will last me quite awhile. I didn't like that you can only run Chevron premium fuel in it.. I overall loved this car
November 11, 2014The timing chain and clutch plate continues to be an issue.
January 6, 2022Great small car for a single female. A bit slow, but you get amazing fuel economy in return! Handles amazing! This car is fun to driver and you get all the attention that you deserve! Has cute addition such as different color lights inside your car.
April 5, 2012Trims & specs
Base MSRP $29,900 | Seating 4 |
Engine 1.6L 208 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 5.7 cu ft |
Combined MPG 29 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $27,950 | Seating 4 |
Engine 1.6L 181 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 6.0 cu ft |
Combined MPG 31 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $24,950 | Seating 4 |
Engine 1.6L 121 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 6.0 cu ft |
Combined MPG 31 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $35,100 | Seating 4 |
Engine 1.6L 208 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 6.0 cu ft |
Combined MPG 29 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $19,500 | Seating 4 |
Engine 1.6L 121 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 5.7 cu ft |
Combined MPG 33 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $23,100 | Seating 4 |
Engine 1.6L 181 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 5.7 cu ft |
Combined MPG 31 | Drivetrain FWD |
Pricing trends
MSRP range
$19,500 - $35,100
Current avg. market price
$7,142
Trending down by 2.1% this month
May 2026 - October 2026
