Compare 2017 MINI 2-Door vs 4-Door Review

2017 Hardtop 2 door vs 4 door

Serving Ramsey, NJ, Clifton, and Wayne, NJ

The MINI Hardtop is offered in a 2017 Hardtop 2-door or 4-door style. Both offer incredible curb appeal with all of the personality and customization you've come to expect from this racy icon. There are two four-door and three two-door Hardtop editions.

Performance

Racecar-influenced handling is standard on every edition, regardless of engine or the number of doors. An electronic limited slip differential, for instance, is always on board, helping the Mini hug curves. The six-speed manual transmission has automatic rev-matching, ensuring smoother downshifts. The six-speed automatic is available with paddle shifters and automatic rev-matching. Considering its lightweight build, every Mini has a terrific weight-to-power ratio. The initial offering is a turbo three, available with either two or four doors. This engine produces 134 horsepower and a whopping 163 lb.-ft. of torque.

The S, available in either two or four doors, has a turbo four. This engine kicks out 189 horsepower and 207 lb.-ft. of torque. Fuel economy is 32 mpg combined for the manual. It earns 38 mpg on the highway, making long trips more affordable. It earns 28 mpg city, and it has an automatic stop-start system for long idles. If you want the John Cooper Works edition, the two-door is the only option. This edition adds a sport-tuned suspension and Brembo front brakes. You'll need these components to help you handle the high horsepower of the advanced engine. A two-liter turbo delivers 228 horsepower and 236 lb.-ft. of torque. Remarkably, this engine still earns fuel economy like the S edition.

Appearance

Regardless of your two-door or four-door choice, the exterior can be dressed with graphics, hood stripes or a contrasting roof color. If you step up to the S, the unique hood wears a special scoop, suggesting its racy past. The edition also boasts run-flat tires, foglights, and two center-mounted exhaust tips. Always two-door editions, John Cooper Works models have bigger 17-inch wheels and LED headlights. Of course, the aerodynamic body kit and rear spoiler are really what sets them apart. All models have a 13 cu.ft. cargo hold. If you fold the rear seats, you can get more space. The iconic boxy style maximizes space for bulky items.

The regular Cooper, in either body style, comes with a center armrest, height-adjustable seats, and a leather-clad tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel. Cabin comfort is assured by handsome leatherette upholstery and automatic climate controls. You and your passengers will appreciate the convenience of a cooled glovebox. The cargo hold expands with the split-fold rear seat. Dash tech standards include a 6.5-inch screen with Bluetooth streaming audio and smartphone integration. Equipment includes HD radio and a USB port. Typical upgrades include leather upholstery and color-accented trim. S editions adds bolstered seats for sportier driving. You can also step up to the bigger touchscreen with navigation. The two-door-only JCW dresses up with a special cloth upholstery and a sport steering wheel.

Safety

Safety starts with visibility. Both two-door and four-door editions have automatic headlights, heated mirrors and automatic wipers. MINI packs the cabin with eight airbags, including two knee bags. For parking, you can enjoy the help of a rearview camera and parking sensors.