2007 MINI Cooper S Road Test
On one hand, when introduced in 2002, the new MINI brought premium features and the cachet of BMW parentage to the subcompact class. On the other, its dynamic on-road capabilities could embarrass sports cars costing twice as much. Okay, yes, the first few model years' build quality was suspect. The mandatory run-flat tires gave it the ride of a donkey cart and its engine was considered gruff at best. Those up front were treated royally, but a severe lack of rear leg and cargo space meant the MINI stopped being a real car aft of the B-pillars. And with a few options checked off, it was all-too-easy to find yourself staring at a $40,000 bill for a front-drive, 2+2 subcompact hatchback.
