Indeed! But I gotta say, after watching this, I kinda miss the "consumer advice" angle that has been largely subjugated by "enthusiast entertainment" in modern TH videos. I demand BOTH, god dangit!!! ;-)
I never inclined to like mini until I drove one myself. The look, the feel, the presence captured a small part of my heart. It’s silly fun to drive. I adore the quirky, vintage look. I do not own a mini cooper but a mini clubman s considering it is the widest among the mini's and enough space for taller individuals in the second row. For folks who never driven one, go drive one. If you live in the city, go drive one. If you live in the suburbs, even more so drive one.
Fun car, great handling and looks cool. I test drove it last night and I really like it. The 3 cylinder is actually alot of fun, probably 80% of the Cooper S. Thanks for the detailed honest review
I had the Cooper S and it pulled well of course but in reality, this three cylinder is the same fun. The Cooper S is not quick enough to beat a lot of cars so this smaller engined model is probably a better option for a lot less money.
I already have two Mini Cooper at home, A new f60 Mini Countryman S and a Mini Cooper F56 which is my daily and I love it, it’s economical, practical and super fun to drive everyday from home to work. Then the Countryman S is so much fun to drive and it’s a crossover! I think maybe we are a proper Bmw group enthusiasts... an all new BMW X5 50i it’s coming home. I hope there’s lots of people who can really enjoy this little pretty cars. LOVE MiNIS!
Awesome comment about the sunroof. i thought i was the only one that noticed that. I like that the sunroof is in my peripheral vision when looking out the front windshield. So happy with my new 2019 Copper S!!
For people who are looking for mini coopers, try to find a Cooper S, it has minor improvements to the engine and interior that really are worth the higher price tag. Happy driving!
With the arm rest, there's a lever you can pull to lower it enough to get more access to the shifter. I found that out by accident after I bought my 2015 Cooper 5 door.
I can say whole heartedly you are right. I have a C6 Z06 coming from a 2012 Mini Cooper S modified and driving a slower car faster around turns is so much more fun overall. The vette is amazing don’t get me wrong and I love it, but the mini just allows you to get away with almost anything and it begs you to push it through the corners. With a couple of modifications, the mini is way fun. I know I’ll get another one someday.
@@connorrohlf4656 I actually sold it to a fella in Georgia who gave it to his son. Ironically I told him if he ever sold it to let me know. He let me know he was now selling it, but he wants more than I sold it for and I don’t really have the money at the moment. I do miss that car though! They are amazing little cars. Did you do any work to yours yet?
@@MrGflan No, not yet. I just got mine and want to get a bit more...money before I do anything to it. The first thing I plan to do is upgrade the infotainment. I have the nav package but my area is relativley new and I don't know if there's anyway to update the maps to have any of the streets around my home (my road does not exsist according to Lizzie). But performance upgrades are definitley being considered...
@@connorrohlf4656 got it. I would highly recommend a stage 1 tune. It was a huge difference in power. Manic was the tuner I used but I think they are no longer tuning. Depends on where you are there are many options. Are you in the UK or US?
idk why but i love these small cars, used to have a 2010 cooper d and a smart fortwo, yes you can barely get any luggage with you but they`re so much cheaper in gas and parts (logic i know)
The Brits gave the world a lot, hundreds of great inventions and things like the Concorde but when it comes too cars there are the Rolls Royce for 100 years the go to luxury car but the best thing they ever buildt for the average man was the Mini and I love it the most.
Fleurix This 3rd generation has a BMW engine, and electricals shared with the rest of the F-series BMWs, not to mention BMW's UKL platform. It has proved to be VASTLY better than the previous two generations, in terms of reliability, and has been out since 2014, so it has several years of data already.
Mini has always caught my eye and I would seriously consider moving down the sporty car foodchain to one of these. The simplicity and overall lack of pretense at being more than what it is are appealing. Trying to find a Mini deal that stocks a manual car.... like pulling teeth.
Gandalf721 ☹️really? I didnt coz of the covid. I guess its a blessing in dsguise??my friends told me that i should get a toyota as theyr more reliable. Im so confused now
literally bro but the 5 dr version . i didnt like them before but now that its the car i learnt manual in and drive it i love the car and itll always have a special place in my heart
Totally agree the mini is a fun car to drive. It feels kind of like a FWD BMW 1-series with some ergonomic quirks. Seating position is good, but with my long arms the "iDrive"-wheel positioning is horrible. Even with the armrest up, it manages to be in the way. as my elbow hots is. Oh, and the doorhandles are just annoying. But I guess that what one would call personality?
I had the same ergonomic problem with the armrest, but then I discovered you can tilt it down so it is out of the way. However, it does get in the way when you need to pull up the parking brake.
Zero blind spots. Except you can’t see stop lights when you come to a stop at the white line, because the front of the roof is so far forward. At least that’s the problem I had in my ‘17 Clubman. These are pretty airy cars, but I wouldn’t say they have no blind spots.
Gandalf721 The lack of visibility is a dealbreaker for me, regardless of what you call it. After that annoyance I wouldn’t buy another Mini. Moreover, I wouldn’t buy a car that you needed a modification to SEE out of.
I'd love to see how the new 2020 Mini Clubman JCW compares with the Golf R and Civic Type R? The new mini is pushing over 300bhp through an AWD system and on paper, it seems to be a hot hatch, but no one has really reviewed it as one. The new GP would also be interesting to cross shop. It ditches the AWD setup and weighs a half ton less but has the new JCW engine too. I'd love to see what you guys think???
What car do you consider to be the most engaging in that price range? I really enjoy your videos, especially your obvious love of manual transmissions.😊
That’s a hard one actually. The BRZ is still the benchmark for engagement at the lower price point. But it’s still a bit more Money. A Mini is a really good option for engagement.
the MINI isn't as mini as it used to be in 2005 (R53); That's the MINI I miss...and I don't remember hearing a lot of stories of catastrophic accidents of R53s and [insert SUV of choice]; why did you try to over-sensationalize w/the the Escalade crash and unsafe-ness of the "new" and "new new" MINIs? MINIs are pricey for what you get and the price goes North quickly as it almost seems necessary to check the option boxes. The runflat tires also don't do the car any justice and might have been one reason why your had wet pavement traction issues. Now drive a FWD Clubman or Countryman and see if they have the same attributes as the 2-door hardtop. Are they still "MINIs" too? #savethemanuals
Nice review - but at 06:02 you say you don't want to hear how it is not mini enough? Fair enough, but I beg to differ. I still own my 2005 R53 MCS (first generation). I have tried all the newer generations, and after every testdrive I have told the stealership that I'm keeping my old one. The newer MINIs lack soul. They are too big. Not as much fun. I miss the speedo in the middle. Don't like the styling. Great for those who like it, but I'm sticking with my old one. And no, the first ones were NOT "deathtraps", as you put it. In fact they are very safe cars, scoring 4 out of 5 on NHTSA safety tests. Which is the same as the last genertion gets. You might be thinking of the Classic MINIs made between 1960-1999?
It's a MY'19. It's the first year they made the rear LED lights standard with halogen bulbs upfront. LEDs up front bring the Union Jack LED taillights out back. Also, the base HVAC system that isn't auto-climate is reintroduced for Cooper models 2019 and newer, which was discontinued after 2015 originally (I know because I sell them ;) ).
P. A. Serrano As he said himself He was never a fan, nothing cheap feeling about it...I own this model and it’s very very well put together and has BMW standards of finishes, I also owned the 2nd Gen mini, which Was much loved, But it cannot compare to this actually BMW Model I drive now,
It does not have a twin scroll turbo because its a 3 cyl and twin scroll requires an evenly split double manifold exhaust which you cant achieve with 3 exhaust pipes from 3 cylinders. At least wiki check your data before posting a video.
Here in 2024. TH has come a long way in only several years.
Indeed! But I gotta say, after watching this, I kinda miss the "consumer advice" angle that has been largely subjugated by "enthusiast entertainment" in modern TH videos. I demand BOTH, god dangit!!! ;-)
I never inclined to like mini until I drove one myself. The look, the feel, the presence captured a small part of my heart. It’s silly fun to drive. I adore the quirky, vintage look. I do not own a mini cooper but a mini clubman s considering it is the widest among the mini's and enough space for taller individuals in the second row. For folks who never driven one, go drive one. If you live in the city, go drive one. If you live in the suburbs, even more so drive one.
Fun car, great handling and looks cool. I test drove it last night and I really like it. The 3 cylinder is actually alot of fun, probably 80% of the Cooper S. Thanks for the detailed honest review
I had the Cooper S and it pulled well of course but in reality, this three cylinder is the same fun. The Cooper S is not quick enough to beat a lot of cars so this smaller engined model is probably a better option for a lot less money.
I already have two Mini Cooper at home, A new f60 Mini Countryman S and a Mini Cooper F56 which is my daily and I love it, it’s economical, practical and super fun to drive everyday from home to work. Then the Countryman S is so much fun to drive and it’s a crossover! I think maybe we are a proper Bmw group enthusiasts... an all new BMW X5 50i it’s coming home. I hope there’s lots of people who can really enjoy this little pretty cars. LOVE MiNIS!
I ordered a manual transmission, base Mini in 2021 (model year). Awesome little car with huge personality and charm. No regrets and a total keeper.
Awesome comment about the sunroof. i thought i was the only one that noticed that. I like that the sunroof is in my peripheral vision when looking out the front windshield. So happy with my new 2019 Copper S!!
I take mine to the track and I can compete with almost all the cars around the corners and nobody on the straights. I love this car so much
So true about the sun roof and the visibility, great review again Tom.
For people who are looking for mini coopers, try to find a Cooper S, it has minor improvements to the engine and interior that really are worth the higher price tag. Happy driving!
I came for a review and i got that i really want a mini cooper, just cause they're small, compact, and fun to drive. Good car for school.
With the arm rest, there's a lever you can pull to lower it enough to get more access to the shifter. I found that out by accident after I bought my 2015 Cooper 5 door.
Base MINI Cooper plus nice coilovers, tires = extra goodness
I can say whole heartedly you are right. I have a C6 Z06 coming from a 2012 Mini Cooper S modified and driving a slower car faster around turns is so much more fun overall. The vette is amazing don’t get me wrong and I love it, but the mini just allows you to get away with almost anything and it begs you to push it through the corners. With a couple of modifications, the mini is way fun. I know I’ll get another one someday.
What did You do to your Mini? I have a 2012 S as well
@@connorrohlf4656 I actually sold it to a fella in Georgia who gave it to his son. Ironically I told him if he ever sold it to let me know. He let me know he was now selling it, but he wants more than I sold it for and I don’t really have the money at the moment. I do miss that car though! They are amazing little cars. Did you do any work to yours yet?
@@MrGflan No, not yet. I just got mine and want to get a bit more...money before I do anything to it. The first thing I plan to do is upgrade the infotainment. I have the nav package but my area is relativley new and I don't know if there's anyway to update the maps to have any of the streets around my home (my road does not exsist according to Lizzie). But performance upgrades are definitley being considered...
@@connorrohlf4656 got it. I would highly recommend a stage 1 tune. It was a huge difference in power. Manic was the tuner I used but I think they are no longer tuning. Depends on where you are there are many options. Are you in the UK or US?
“Oh look a Honda S2000!”
That’s exactly how you know you’re watching a car review from a real car person!
Great honest review! Today I’m going to get the Mini One 😊
I've had one for 2 years, it's hilarious. I love it!
idk why but i love these small cars, used to have a 2010 cooper d and a smart fortwo, yes you can barely get any luggage with you but they`re so much cheaper in gas and parts (logic i know)
Owning a 2016 Orange well optioned Cooper. Its a ton of fun and reasonably quick with good handling
I'm glad they got rid of the wife-yells-at-you-to-slow-down passenger-speedometer display.
Lmaoo
Absolutely love this review!
The Brits gave the world a lot, hundreds of great inventions and things like the Concorde but when it comes too cars there are the Rolls Royce for 100 years the go to luxury car but the best thing they ever buildt for the average man was the Mini and I love it the most.
Reliability has always been an issue with previous models, hope this one is better. After all, it is owned by BMW
The last two generations were also made by BMW...
Fleurix This 3rd generation has a BMW engine, and electricals shared with the rest of the F-series BMWs, not to mention BMW's UKL platform. It has proved to be VASTLY better than the previous two generations, in terms of reliability, and has been out since 2014, so it has several years of data already.
Got me a used 2019 reddish a year ago. Love it 🥰. Hope it’ll last. 🙏🏿🙏🏿🙏🏿
Mini has always caught my eye and I would seriously consider moving down the sporty car foodchain to one of these. The simplicity and overall lack of pretense at being more than what it is are appealing. Trying to find a Mini deal that stocks a manual car.... like pulling teeth.
Manual mini are the best. I have an 08 manual. Just got it tinted. It’s beautiful and so much fun to drive
Fun car unlike any other.
A1 review and that’s why I watch.
i dailied a very base manual 2010 mini during hs
love that it’s a comfy cabin+fishbowl w a lovely lil mini-fwd bmr around+under it
wringable af
@TheStraightPipes want a slow-motion replay at 9:08
Im getting a brand new mini soon♥️
Gandalf721 ☹️really? I didnt coz of the covid. I guess its a blessing in dsguise??my friends told me that i should get a toyota as theyr more reliable. Im so confused now
i learnt to drive stickshift in this mini
literally bro but the 5 dr version . i didnt like them before but now that its the car i learnt manual in and drive it i love the car and itll always have a special place in my heart
Totally agree the mini is a fun car to drive. It feels kind of like a FWD BMW 1-series with some ergonomic quirks. Seating position is good, but with my long arms the "iDrive"-wheel positioning is horrible. Even with the armrest up, it manages to be in the way. as my elbow hots is. Oh, and the doorhandles are just annoying. But I guess that what one would call personality?
I had the same ergonomic problem with the armrest, but then I discovered you can tilt it down so it is out of the way. However, it does get in the way when you need to pull up the parking brake.
Zero blind spots. Except you can’t see stop lights when you come to a stop at the white line, because the front of the roof is so far forward. At least that’s the problem I had in my ‘17 Clubman. These are pretty airy cars, but I wouldn’t say they have no blind spots.
Gandalf721 The lack of visibility is a dealbreaker for me, regardless of what you call it. After that annoyance I wouldn’t buy another Mini. Moreover, I wouldn’t buy a car that you needed a modification to SEE out of.
I'd love to see how the new 2020 Mini Clubman JCW compares with the Golf R and Civic Type R? The new mini is pushing over 300bhp through an AWD system and on paper, it seems to be a hot hatch, but no one has really reviewed it as one. The new GP would also be interesting to cross shop. It ditches the AWD setup and weighs a half ton less but has the new JCW engine too. I'd love to see what you guys think???
Mine got 37mpg average and it was quick and nimble.
What car do you consider to be the most engaging in that price range?
I really enjoy your videos, especially your obvious love of manual transmissions.😊
That’s a hard one actually. The BRZ is still the benchmark for engagement at the lower price point. But it’s still a bit more
Money. A Mini is a really good option for engagement.
WAS this the last episode Thomas was solo?
I would like your opinion of the new Fiat 500
Subscribed!
the MINI isn't as mini as it used to be in 2005 (R53); That's the MINI I miss...and I don't remember hearing a lot of stories of catastrophic accidents of R53s and [insert SUV of choice]; why did you try to over-sensationalize w/the the Escalade crash and unsafe-ness of the "new" and "new new" MINIs? MINIs are pricey for what you get and the price goes North quickly as it almost seems necessary to check the option boxes. The runflat tires also don't do the car any justice and might have been one reason why your had wet pavement traction issues. Now drive a FWD Clubman or Countryman and see if they have the same attributes as the 2-door hardtop. Are they still "MINIs" too? #savethemanuals
Nice review - but at 06:02 you say you don't want to hear how it is not mini enough? Fair enough, but I beg to differ. I still own my 2005 R53 MCS (first generation). I have tried all the newer generations, and after every testdrive I have told the stealership that I'm keeping my old one. The newer MINIs lack soul. They are too big. Not as much fun. I miss the speedo in the middle. Don't like the styling. Great for those who like it, but I'm sticking with my old one. And no, the first ones were NOT "deathtraps", as you put it. In fact they are very safe cars, scoring 4 out of 5 on NHTSA safety tests. Which is the same as the last genertion gets. You might be thinking of the Classic MINIs made between 1960-1999?
A basic 3 pot new Fiesta would be cheaper to run and fun?
Terry C The Fiesta would be far less reliable, with horrid interior materials and build quality, but if you like that sort of garbage, be my guest.
new fiesta is decent car but interior of mini is much superior and quality and reliablity wise
Cool
And I’m James....
You need to review Mini s/ jcw
Take a shot every time he says MINI
This is not the 2019 model.
It's a MY'19. It's the first year they made the rear LED lights standard with halogen bulbs upfront. LEDs up front bring the Union Jack LED taillights out back. Also, the base HVAC system that isn't auto-climate is reintroduced for Cooper models 2019 and newer, which was discontinued after 2015 originally (I know because I sell them ;) ).
But how does this car compare to a similarly priced Jetta?
LOL
I hava jetta sport and I’m buying a mini at the moment, jetta is a really comfortable car but the mini is a touch more luxurious and high end
This or the Abarth?
Btw, where are these roads?
I have a JCW it’s great just far far to hard to ride imo
...and it does not matter, how many times it is beeing repeated, it's NOT a TwinScroll Turbo!!!!
If for this guy MINI looks cheap, I guess a Hyundai or Kia are cars just for homeless persons
P. A. Serrano As he said himself He was never a fan, nothing cheap feeling about it...I own this model and it’s very very well put together and has BMW standards of finishes, I also owned the 2nd Gen mini, which Was much loved, But it cannot compare to this actually BMW Model I drive now,
"when you see one of this go by in the road you know inmediately its a mini".... or a chinese lifan...
It does not have a twin scroll turbo because its a 3 cyl and twin scroll requires an evenly split double manifold exhaust which you cant achieve with 3 exhaust pipes from 3 cylinders.
At least wiki check your data before posting a video.
Twin power not twin scroll. Please, check your facts.
“twin power” means “twin scroll”. As far as I understand. There is one turbo.
I think twin scroll is a special type of turbo. Twin power is a single scroll turbo.
Crappy