2016 MINI Cooper Hardtop

When MINI made it's comeback over a decade ago, it was hard to see the little cars making any kind of splash on American shores. However, as we began buying up Coopers in droves, it quickly became apparent the MINI Cooper was here to stay. 

The 2016 MINI Cooper Hardtop reflects the engineering ingenuity of the MINI name, and the legacy it's brought with it from Europe. A stylish, nimble, compact coupe with a look completely unique, the 2016 Hardtop is one of MINI's earliest creations, and with a recent refresh, has become a must-see and must test drive for anyone looking for a new, fun and sporty car.

Backed by the Bavarian excellence that is BMW, MINI has left nothing out with its 2016 updates of its entire stable. 

The 2016 Mini Cooper Hardtop is available as a two- or four-door hatchback or convertible. The trim levels available range from the base Cooper to the Cooper S versions, with a high-performance John Cooper Works (JCW) edition reserved for the two-door hatch. Each edition brings something unique to the table. 

However, in terms of performance it gets two engine options for 2016. The base engine is a turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder that develops 134 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque. Fuel economy also impresses with an EPA estimated 32 mpg combined. 

The Cooper S version is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 189-hp and 207 lb-ft of torque. Upgrading to the automatic transmission adds wheel-mounted paddle shifters. And the John Cooper Works edition sees the same engine, but with a power output upped to 228 hp and 236 lb-ft.

For all 2016 Mini Cooper models, it comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission while a six-speed automatic is optional. 

Looks-wise, MINI has, and never truly can, abandon the iconic low-profiled, boxy styling that it's become famous for. However, a MINI usually means you're getting a higher quality product than any other sub-compact. Inside sees soft-touch materials on the doors and dashboard, customizable with several different trim coverings. Ambient lighting on the doors changes color depending on which driving mode is selected.

We also see some nice tech touches such as Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, HD radio, a USB port and an auxiliary input jack, and others. 

Interested in getting the classic Cooper? There's really no better time, and there's really no better option than the 2016 MINI Cooper Hardtop. The classic and the modern blend seamlessly into a sub-compact package just about any driver will enjoy.