The 2022 Mini Cooper S 6-Speed Is A Charismatic Little Hot Hatch

[@caglioso]

Man I hate that mini removed the analog gauge display. The digital one just takes so much away from that classic mini aesthetic.

[@bigmacdaddy1234]

That is why I bought a 2019 instead of a new one.

[@brandonpollard8928]

You could switch it tbh but I get you

[@casperskestrel]

They have reverted back to analogue dials because of the global chip shortage. My 2022 Mini JCW which was delivered 2 months ago has the analogue dials.

[@georgewashington7982]

there’s a chip shortage cus of China tensions against Taiwan (and the high possibility of war). Gonna be sad when we can’t see any new cars in the future lol. Obviously will be sad when we can’t have medical equipment etc for all the trolls thag will talk shit

[@69FOSTER]

Agree, I like the classic analog gauge, but I disagree with the review, IMO, Mini should not redesign the dash display overall. I also would never get a four-door Mini, takes away from the character of the brand and defeats the purpose of getting a Mini.

[@homoerotic85]

I actually like the interior design, it's unlike any other vehicle I have been in. I think the big circle ⭕ with the interactive led lights is just fun. I recently sat in a Clubman Mini S and was surprised by the interior quality. When Mini's first came out the interiors looked cool but felt very cheap, they no longer feel cheap so that's great. I don't know that I would ever buy one though because I have heard horror stories about their reliability. They may have fixed those issues but I wouldn't bet my money on it lol. I feel like a Mini or a Land Rover are best as a lease that way nothing becomes your problem.

[@codered47819]

Gen 2’s have reliability problems, but Gen 3’s fair much better and typically don’t have an abnormal reliability issue

[@homoerotic85]

@@codered47819 That is awesome to hear. I would like to have one if they are reliable. I would like to have the Mini S Convertible.

[@lash9400]

My nephew had a 2nd gen Cooper S and the family were fighting over the keys, it was so much fun

[@danmurphy1994]

I owned a 2013 mini cooper s british racing green with white roof white hood stripes white mirrors 6 speed manual with JCW beadlock rims. Best car ive ever owned. Totaled it in 1 month

[@KingUSVI]

My deepest condolences

[@roxanaochoa5071]

how?

[@homejournalist]

Mini cannot get rid of the big circle on the dash. It harkens back to when the speedo was there and gives mini owners a feeling of nostalgia.

[@stevem8112]

If I want more nostalgia I can go to a museum.

[@rysiucastro]

"Pretty similar to a Volkswagen GTI when you have the rear seats up" - this was a mistake, surely? The GTI has almost double the space...

[@caglioso]

Quite a few mistakes in this vid lol, Sofyan phones it in sometimes.

[@SEB-as]

“GIT”. Thats the mistake

[@nothere572]

I assume he meant the mini has similar size with the seats down compared to the GTI with the seats up. Idk though.

[@alltimekingsparade34]

Solid review! Just got my 2023 mini hardtop 5 door in manual two days ago, and everything you mentioned is spot on. Loving this quirky fella.

[@countalucard4226]

What color. I buying a new one very soon and I don’t see the white silver available in 2 door S hardtop.

[@nathanvbrown3630]

I love my 2014 clubman S. Haven't need blind spot mirrors since I can actually see out of it, the first time in 2 years.

[@brynnleahnayvieghlaykynnn6175]

Blind spot mirrors should be on every car it’s so convenient not having to look over your head

[@brynnleahnayvieghlaykynnn6175]

This is the perfect color combo

[@TheHomeExpert5]

Hey jelly donut, that was a good review and I think you were spot-on on everything. It's not often that we agree on everything but you're on the money on this one

[@karenpes7280]

as someone who knows nothing about cars but wants a mini, thank you for this tutorial

[@808illegalstate]

As a mini owner I disagree with your opinion on the center counsel. The giant circle is synonymous with Mini Cooper. It’s what makes it a mini. And you forgot to mention the real reason why the cooper is unique, the engine is mounted sideways for better handling. That’s why it has a go-kart like handling.

[@dubber4life]

Most FWD vehicles use transversely (sideways) mounted engines. It’s not a unique characteristic of mini.

[@Tiagovw]

the interior design is amazing, The big circle in the middle shows the heritage of the old Minis. You don't know what you are talking about

[@marcpasquinelli2548]

I have a 2021 Convertible S, and it's a kick! Only few drawbacks is that it has awful rev hang, sometimes refuses to downshift (automatic), and the convertible when the top is down has substantially compromised visibility out the back window. Less raw than the prior generations, but still a lot of fun.

[@HipsterTactical]

Sofyan's reviews are always relatable and relevant. I also have an F56 S hardtop (though with the dual clutch) and I agree with his sentiments... only... I DID buy it. Well, I leased it. My residual is crazy low, though... so, I might actually buy it in the end. Thanks for validating my choice in automobiles.

[@colingoldthorpe5918]

They make you laugh every day you drive one. I own three and you either get it or hate it. Switch the run flats and the sound and ride is way better. The gas mileage is great on the highway, especially during these days is a blessing. The interior is the way it should be Mini don’t ever change it please.

[@arielmischa8136]

I AGREE! The interior is already so beautiful the way it is😭

[@heatherjohnson955]

Great review. I am exasperated by how hard it is to get my hands on a manual transmission from Mini

[@bfielder9097]

Enthusiast is enthusiastically the most overused word in the car enthusiast world.

[@Tinrs80]

OK! that color! wow..I like that interior too...Hope you feeling better There Sof!

[@hjdiet]

I love his reviews ... but I disagree in changing the interior... looks great... I have a 2020 Mini Cooper S - love it.

[@evantyler11]

Thanks for the review, I just ordered one!

[@jeffmaynard5642]

I have a 2014 Cooper S with 6spd and back then they have rev watching if you were in sport mode. Im sure this model has the same.

[@lucasportinari4975]

Mini Cooper has been doing that is because a lot of enthusiast love the interior and so do I My friends talk about the interior so much and they say it's the coolest thing ever in the unique thing ever why would many dump the interior and start something new if they already have something great if you don't like it that sucks for you.😊

[@VG22.]

Hope Mini gives it a decent blind-spot monitoring system for next year. The only thing keeping me from getting one. I have been spoilt by Hyundai elantra sport (turbo) standard Blind spot monitoring system.... It gives you an extra sense of awareness when merging into the highways/freeways etc... and just changing lanes while doing highway speeds.

[@Tjz30]

I mean the car is pretty small imo I don’t think it needs blind spot it’ll just jack the price up more tbh .

[@colingoldthorpe5918]

Just add the little stick on convex mirrors 🤷‍♂️🤷‍♂️ I own three mini coopers never thought I’d need a blind spot monitor system 🤔🤔

[@trinkie]

Yea and keep adding more weight! These comments are why we have such fat cars nowadays!

[@VG22.]

@@Tjz30 it might not need it but its always better to have such a useful safety feature and it doesn't really jack up the price as it is not expensive technology. Korean automakers offer it as a standard feature on base models lol

[@brynnleahnayvieghlaykynnn6175]

These comments are silly saying it doesn’t need BSM. BSM is so convenient you don’t have to look over your head you can easily glance and see if the light is on or not vs a mirror having to look sounds lazy but in long drives it’s the little things like that hay make the drive more peaceful and enjoyable. Also BSM usually has rear cross traffic alert which is VERY necessary I LOVE rear cross traffic alert such a good safety feature that is necessary on any vehicle

[@drumflip1253]

Owed two Minis they are very fun and quickly. Great color on that one!

[@colingoldthorpe5918]

Headlights are that way so if your on the side of the road with the hood up your headlights/marker lights are visible to other drivers.

[@MattCC16Gaming]

Yeah, plus headlights and taillights by law cannot be on a moving piece of bodywork

[@Andrew-zs5tc]

@@MattCC16Gaming That is the explanation I have heard as well. Interestingly, the headlights in the first generation (to 2008 for the convertible and 2006 for the hardtop) the headlights are on the hood. I haven't figured out when they made it the law.

[@MattCC16Gaming]

@@Andrew-zs5tc interesting!

[@kevs2good133]

No it’s because they can’t be on a piece of movable bodywork.

[@AstroBrent]

Seems like a plug-in hybrid would make a lot of sense for the Mini. Would provide some extra take off power and put the MPG in a place that makes more sense for the compromising size.

[@marshaclark4901]

Would have bought one by now if it had blind spot monitoring!

[@MikeReppucci]

Mini dealer told be it was due to the size, that because it is such a small car it isn't necessary.

[@OMGWTFLOLSMH]

Great colour. Always wanted one in Pepper White, but too afraid of the reliability. If these were Japanese, they'd be everywhere.

[@kevs2good133]

If they were Japanese they’d be hollow as a tin can

[@upbeatspace1117]

The gen 3 mind's are pretty reliable I haven't had any problems

[@MrRicco39]

i have had 2 mini the next one i get is in the same color and the same interior color too as shown here

[@pascutia]

RUNFLATS?!?! I just got rid of them on my E90 330xi. They made the ride so stiff and generated so much noise. I switched over to some Continental DWS tires and my GOD has the ride been improved. I can’t imagine how garbage the ride must be on this short wheelbase with stiff suspension.

[@colingoldthorpe5918]

We changed them on ours too. We have a paceman S all 4 it had 19” run flats they were awful. Switched them to normal tires made a massive difference!!!! Just carry a tire repair kit and fix a flat can 🤷‍♂️🤷‍♂️

[@pascutia]

@@colingoldthorpe5918 Oh boy, good move! I can imagine it was a rough ride. I’m running 17’ wheels, and it was rough.

[@bigmacdaddy1234]

Runflat technology changed a lot in recent years and are no longer the old hockey pucks that they used to be. Now they are as compliant as non-runflats. The ride is just fine with today's newer runflat tires. Plus since there is no spare, if you get a flat tire, you can simply drive home.

[@luv_a_nurse8960]

I wanted one of these so bad, but then i started looking more into them-its like No Thank You. Sounds like a princess just like my maxima i wanna trade in, always breaking down. I commute 2 hours a day and need something good on gas tho. And no i dont want a Honda, my husband has one.

[@FreshYoungDude]

Awesome car. But it’s sad that a Mini weighs 2800 pounds now. Shave 4-500 pounds off it and it would be legendary again.

[@ForgotToMentionThat]

I would start with reducing the number of speakers. People forget how heavy a door speaker is.

[@gary_michael_flanagan_wildlife]

This sounds really strange but I tested a 2024 MC JCW manual and a used 2015 MCS manual. The older car was faster feeling and more fun, raw feeling. The JCW seemed sleepy. Just didn’t have the same feel. Anyone else experience this? I heard the JCW has more top end feel and sacrificing a little torque. Is that true?

[@MattCC16Gaming]

Gosh I can’t explain how much I love your reviews/videos. They are my happy place haha! XD. Also hope you are recovering well from covid!! I think Mini is opposed to power seats lol?

[@ForgotToMentionThat]

Maybe because of weight savings, then again they have like a thousand speakers which cancels that out. Lol

[@MattCC16Gaming]

@@ForgotToMentionThat lol xd

[@Victic005]

They need to put the M240i architecture in there.

[@bigmacdaddy1234]

Um, no they don't. It's fine just the way it is.

[@countalucard4226]

I’ve always drove manual every 3 years. My last one 2020 they only had auto now I don’t know if I will go back to manual. Mind if I ask the sticker price?

[@leom00n79]

Hey Sofian, can you review the automatic too please

[@BocaAtractivo82]

Overall, great review. The transmission though, it's just right for beginners who want to learn to drive stick ;) perhaps the notchy one will be with the JCW with the rev matching

[@firstlast1732]

The dash design of the mini that’s iconic that’s what it’s all about the problem is it’s all plastic it’s so cheaply made they should make it more solid with all metal parts

[@randomhobbyist99]

I love the Mini SE. only if it had double its range I would of bought one over the Tesla.

[@anthonyc3453]

It chirps because you release the clutch so quickly. Chill

[@davidcorbin2092]

With a 6 speed manual and in British racing green it would be like a purpose built British roadster

[@goradhen]

Frameless windows = instant no buy for Canadian winters. Having to fight to open/close doors when the windows are frozen is not a premium experience. Same problem on some Audi models including B8.5 Audi I own.

[@kevs2good133]

Any Audi/car with coupe like profile will have frameless windows. Audi A5/A7

[@bigmacdaddy1234]

Plenty of "frameless windows" cars. Everybody else is able to manage it without complaining.

[@goradhen]

@@bigmacdaddy1234 It's a common issue. Very inconvenient in general if applicable to your case. Things I wish I knew before. Hopefully it helps one person wether related to buy this or any other car.

[@Scotty_in_Ohio]

@@bigmacdaddy1234 usually with the door/window being well maintained - silicone spray and a rag and about 10 minutes.

[@Scotty_in_Ohio]

@@goradhen I've experienced the issue twice this year and winter isn't in full swing here - I have a 2018 Mini 2 door hardtop JCW and after the 2nd time I learned that the door/window seals haven't been maintained (at all) after a little bit of silicone spray on a rag and then onto those seals it hasn't happened since and we've had more freezing rain and temps below freezing. I've also owned other hardtop cars like MX-5 Miata RF, Mustangs, T-Birds and a few others over the past 4 decades and never really had a problem. The Mini was a case of me buying used and it being not-so-well maintained in that regard.

[@P4SDetails]

If you are alone and driving down a road, these are one of the funnest things out there. It’s when you need to haul peeps, stuff or there are other cars flying by you that you realize they are underpowered and soooooo small.

[@ernestlopez9503]

Every year new model design internally less appears or rather resemble a mini at all.Thus, change the panel gauges completely,because they spoil the facia panel aesthetic.It should be enhanced by a glass from one end to the other of the facia appropriately with rectangular techs

[@rogermartinez78]

Nice, I just ordered the EV version to this.

[@cadriver2570]

SE is the best version.

[@sleepwalker29]

I designed it. I made a video about the head gaskets leaking from a flawed engine mount design. The only way to fix the Mini overheating problem was a electric motor with no head gasket, or fluids to leak.

[@pradeepmagan6951]

Beautiful colour

[@Scotty_in_Ohio]

The color is spectacular - my wife has a Clubman with British Racing Green and the silver bonnet stripes and silver roof. We swapped the mirror caps / side scuttles for "Black Jack" which are the same silver, white and black as on the car in Union Jack pattern. The camera doesn't do it justice...

[@NGMonocrom]

Bah! Power seats are ridiculously expensive when they break. Plus, they make zero sense if you're the car's only driver. Set the seat once, and basically never again. Power seats are beyond worthless. Even if a valet or mechanic moves the seat, most of the time you simply have to either slide it forward or back. Done! As for the size of the car, it's going to be very successful in America because Mini did nothing to it. Which nowadays is a good thing. Every single other car company has utterly *destroyed* the Compact car segment! I've seen the latest iteration of the Jetta up-close. why is that iconic _compact_ car as big as my '09 Mazda 6 sSport V6 (a Mid-size sedan). Why did Mazda bloat the Mazda 3 into the same size as my old Mazda 6. It's disgusting! and they still have the nerve to call these bloated, stretched out things, "Compact."

[@Scotty_in_Ohio]

I believe that's why (the seats) in most Mini models there's no power option. Have to be in a Countryman or Clubman to get power seats - those are basically BMW seat mechanicals so while they are way overly complicated (they have their own computer modules) they are pretty darn reliable - if / when they do break a set of manual or even JCW seats will bolt right in and the computer can be "re-coded". As for how long Mini won't touch the F56 (2 door hardtop) - most indications are that there's about 5 or so years between refreshes (LCI2 was in 2019 or 2020) so we have till about model year 2025 before we're likely to see a new platform. In addition to the overall size - everything is getting much heavier too - partly due to all the tech and safety stuff but also because of the amount of materials being used - although less steel is being used they're using more overall material such as plastics and alloys - it ends up just being weight re-distribution and added material for safety.

[@firstandlastname2390]

Does the muffler still pops?

[@tkusterb]

You think Mini should ditch its iconic round-window central display? Are you crazy! Blasphemy!

[@brynnleahnayvieghlaykynnn6175]

I feel like its because of the screen it might look better in a vertical orientation as opposed to horizontal

[@rogermartinez78]

I completely agree with you, that is the reason I ordered a 2023 mini cooper se before the 2024 version with its Tesla style center screen, no good!

[@chalachin4452]

Good luck finding one. They dont make manuals anymore

[@Scotty_in_Ohio]

They still do - but not in every model - Cooper S Hardtop 2 door and 2 door JCW - all other models it's an auto or DCT. They've been using what little manual transmissions they have "sparingly" and few are coming to America if they are for dealer "inventory" (which hasn't been a "thing" for a while but is starting to be one again). If you'd like one it's best to order one - $250 on Mini's website and a call from your dealer to confirm and then wait.

[@ferrarienzokl]

Please review the new Clubman JCW!

[@arevee9429]

5K for 2 extra doors? I don't think so. I'll take the more "boring" GTI, thanks.

[@ssheen79]

The large centre dual has to remain, this car is all about nostalgia. Buy something else if you want a modern look.

[@slighwentwalking2024]

It looks fun to drive....quirky styling still....fun to look at but not for me.

[@tarandeepsinghsaluja7521]

That British Flag is called "Union Jack"

[@EvendimataE]

TOYOTA AND HONDA PLEASE MAKE SOMETHING AS APPEALING AS MINI.....THE HONDA E CONCEPT WAS BEAUTIFUL, BUT THE ACTUAL PRODUCTION VERSION IS ORDINARY

[@ChristianRunsNY]

GR Corolla?

[@PWCDN]

I can't imagine why Honda can't turn the Fit into something like this.

[@mistamaog]

I don't think they can hear you

[@gothops154]

Man the old ones were so much better. And I don’t even mean old old, I even mean the first models of the F56 were better than this. So sad being a Mini fan and seeing them get ruined more and more with each iteration

[@Scotty_in_Ohio]

Just curious what in the LCI or LCI2 ruined the car for ya? As with a lot of newer generations of cars I tend to agree - change whatever but don't mess with my Mustang - except for the fact that when you get used to the styling almost everything is better.

[@Bobbylopezcreative]

I love the styling but at 6'4", sadly, I think I might not fit in this car.

[@reptiliandonkey2467]

I'm 6' 6" and fit pretty well in my 2005 mini, although no adult would be able to sit behind me

[@Scotty_in_Ohio]

@@reptiliandonkey2467 I'd say that nobody - not just no adult would be able to sit behind you unless they were absent legs....

[@Scotty_in_Ohio]

The door is actually somewhat long and the seats do go pretty far back - there are quite a few tall moto-journalists - most of which tend not to miss many meals so chances are you'd fit. Also, there's more headroom than one would think - minus the sunroof these are fairly popular for motorsports and that means helmets....

[@13mazikeens197]

13:27 “a little bit of nig- uh nudge uh”

[@kakashi99908]

For that cost I would rather import a classic one from Japan and buy something else to daily.

[@ForgotToMentionThat]

Is it possible? To import a mini from Japan?

[@Scotty_in_Ohio]

@@ForgotToMentionThat provided that it's 25 years or older. You'd have to find a place that will import what you're looking for and you're all set.

[@a.jennings4664]

Nice cars but they have reliability issues.

[@bigmacdaddy1234]

Nope. They have been sorted out with Gen 3. They are rock solid and are very reliable. Do you homework next time before you post.

[@a.jennings4664]

@@bigmacdaddy1234: "Rock solid and very reliable", not according to J.D. Powers, Consumer Reports and RepairPal reviews: "According to RepairPal, the Mini Cooper has a reliability rating of 3.0 out of 5.0 and ranks 25th out of 32 car brands. However, the Mini Cooper did rank 21st out of 21 cars in the subcompact segment. The high cost of repair and maintenance for Mini Cooper has significantly hurt its reliability. Feb 4, 2022". Do your homework next time before you post, LOL.

[@Scotty_in_Ohio]

@@a.jennings4664 I'm not sure about RepairPal - I've not run across that before - as far as J.D. Powers and Consumer Reports are concerned I'll take the J.D. Powers info with a grain of salt and Consumer Reports data if it's anything other than "no data - model too new". I can tell you from personal experience that the 3 Minis I've owned/currently own have been very reliable - no major or minor issues mechanical or otherwise. Parts are NOT inexpensive but if you know where to find them (OE parts) they get bought and installed and you're done. If you're expecting to replace an alternator for $99 at Autozone - sorry probably won't happen. If you're taking your car to a dealer for maintenance it WILL be more expensive because it's usually the same as the BMW dealer. Would I buy a 2nd gen (R chassis) Mini with 250,000 miles on it - absolutely not. The statement about high costs for maintenance and repair costs hurting reliability is somewhat comical - they aren't saying they break a lot - and service is only expensive based on the brand being BMW. An oil change for one of my Minis costs me about $8 more than my Kia Soul - about $3 more for the filter/o-ring and $5 more for some additional oil. Brake pads and rotors are also more expensive on the Mini but they last about 50% longer than the Soul's.

[@gethao5220]

2023 Toyota Corolla gr turbo 1.3t 300hp

[@Chineywhale]

This is actually heavy. A Civic si, a much larger car, weighs around the same weight.

[@bigmacdaddy1234]

So what. The Civic is an appliance with no soul. The Mini is cool and fun.

[@Chineywhale]

@@bigmacdaddy1234 really? Because most reviews say the Civic Si is a very fun car with great handling.

[@bigmacdaddy1234]

@@Chineywhale The Civic is a very good car but it doesn't have the personality of a Mini Cooper.

[@clover7359]

Those gear ratios are trash, typical of most newer 6 speeds. 1st through 3rd are too wide and 4th through 6th are too close together.

[@dlg5485]

If this shifter is anything like Subaru's garbage shifters, no thanks! I owned a previous gen WRX 6 speed and a current Impreza 5 speed and they were both some of the worst shifting manuals I've ever driven, and I've driven many. Subaru manuals suck big time, always have. If this one feels anything like those, shame on Mini.

[@imranabbasi7871]

👍

[@huythai1222]

Hot hatch? No. Room temperature is more like it.

[@bigmacdaddy1234]

Then take the bus.

[@stevem8112]

With Android having an 87% market share, how are "most of you are going to use the CarPlay"??? Typical Apple fanboy comment. I see they finally installed a side shade for the driver. Had a 2013 S and should never have got rid of it. Don't miss the stupid round "thing" in the middle of the dash at all. The subsequent version with the color disco lights made it intolerable.

[@thepowerofthegodhand7003]

Fuck apple

[@Scotty_in_Ohio]

It was almost a deal breaker for me - they do make boxes that plug in line with the display and head unit to give you Android Auto which I'll likely do or I'll dig up an old iPhone (new enough to support CarPlay well) and leave it in the car. - you can also turn off the center lights (and the HUD as well if it's optioned with one). Some are holding out for AA for years now - I'd be willing to bet that Mini won't have it till 2025.

[@stevem8112]

@@Scotty_in_Ohio I guess you could pick up a cheap iphone but the old ones don't get updates anymore. You'd need a working number and service unless you have some other connectivity. I still like the Clubman All4 S but the damn color lights...

[@KBP18]

🔥😍

[@lucasokeefe7935]

Seats look great, too bad that white roof liner completely ruins the aesthetic.

[@bigmacdaddy1234]

The white roof liner looks great.

[@Scotty_in_Ohio]

for $250 you can option an "anthracite" headliner and pillar trim.

[@turdferguson1021]

FWD? I'm gone.

[@bigmacdaddy1234]

You will run out of driving skills long before you run out of car with a Mini.

[@Amiga1984]

Automatics are NOT better than Manuals for 0-60 🤣

[@Scotty_in_Ohio]

Perhaps not traditional automatics - most DCTs though are.

[@drummerboy7380]

3rd

[@TheWTFsauce]

4th?

[@Cars-1296]

First

[@erezyoal]

The round multymidea is ugly

[@AbeNXC]

First?

[@Cars-1296]

Actually Second

[@HowellDiesel]

Ew!