2013 MINI Roadster S Video Review

Mini has been on an expanding spree with new models joining the lineup such as the Countryman, Paceman, Coupe, and the model we're taking a closer look at today, the Roadster. The Roadster is the counterpart to the MINI Coupe and provides more excitement and sportiness to the MINI lineup.

Outside, the MINI Roadster is pretty much like any other MINI aside from a couple key areas. For one, the MINI Roadster has a different roofline, forming a bubble shape. Also, the Roadster is a two-seater. This means the Roadster comes with a somewhat spacious trunk. There is also an active rear spoiler that rises from the rear deck at speeds above 50 MPH. Inside, the Roadster is pure MINI for two passengers. All of the trademark touches, including the large speedometer are there. Standard equipment includes air conditioning, height-adjustable seats, and an on-board trip computer.

Like all MINIs, the Roadster comes with three different variations of the 1.6L four-cylinder. The three variations are:

• Cooper Roadster: 1.6L four-cylinder - 121 horsepower, 116 pound-feet of torque
• Cooper S Roadster: turbocharged 1.6L four-cylinder - 181 horsepower, 177 pound-feet of torque
• John Cooper Works Roadster: turbocharged 1.6L four-cylinder - 208 horsepower, 192 pound-feet of torque

All engines come with the choice of either a six-speed manual or automatic transmission.

EPA rates the 2013 MINI Roadster at:

• Cooper Roadster Six-Speed Manual/Automatic: 27 City/35 Highway/30 Combined
• Cooper S Roadster Six-Speed Manual: 26 City/35 Highway/29 Combined
• Cooper S Roadster Six-Speed Automatic: 26 City/34 Highway/29 Combined
• John Cooper Works Roadster Six-Speed Manual: 26 City/35 Highway/29 Combined
• John Cooper Works Roadster Six-Speed Automatic: 26 City/34 Highway/29 Combined

The 2013 MINI Roadster starts at $25,550 for the Cooper Roadster with the six-speed manual and climbs up to $36,950 for the John Cooper Works Roadster with the six-speed automatic. The Cooper S Roadster seen here with the six-speed manual starts at $28,550. Competitors to the MINI Roadster include the Mazda Miata and Volkswagen Beetle Convertible.