Fuel-Efficient Mini Models
The formula for MINI: German engineering, style and high-mpg in a small package.
When the MINI Cooper came to the US a few years ago, the little car caused a big commotion. BMW took the classic stylish mini-car, and transformed into something suitable for modern roadways. Since its worldwide re-launch in 2001, MINI has amassed an almost cult-like following.
Though the MINI Cooper is known for its looks, ultimately the car is defined by its most prominent characteristic: teacup-sized dimensions. When it comes to fuel-efficiency, size matters and the smaller the better.
The Mini Cooper is quick and efficient—a great option for those in search of high mpg, pep and style. With the addition of the five-door Mini Cooper Clubman in 2008, now there’s an option that combines style, fuel efficiency, and a bit more cargo space and legroom. In addition, it appears that BMW is serious about making an all-electric MINI—still in the testing stage at this point.
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MINI Fuel-Efficient Vehicles
| Sort by: | Name | Combined MPG  | Technology | MSRP | Available | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Mini Cooper | 35 MPG | Small Car | $18,700 | Now | Matches or beats efficiency of other subcompacts, but with tons more style. |
 | Mini Cooper Clubman | 32 MPG | Small Car | $19,900 | Now | The same hip and efficient Mini Cooper, but with a longer body and wheelbase. |
 | Mini E | n/a | Electric | n/a | Concept | Limited run of 500 units of all-electric version of Mini Cooper. |
Top news forMINI
Mini Electric Car Drivers: BMW “Botched” Program- As we reported last month, BMW has encountered several problems with its program to evaluate the all-electric Mini E with real-world drivers. The program continues to stumble, as drivers and activists accuse BMW of establishing the program merely to meet regulations, while delivering a sub-standard product. Meanwhile, BMW is planning to deliver the City—its first production electric car—in 2011.
Mini-E Charging Surprise- The plan to lease the Mini E—an all-electric version of the Mini Cooper—has hit a snag. The market test of about 500 Mini E cars in New York, New Jersey and California was to include a special 220-volt charging unit so leasees could recharge their cars in 3.5 hours. But the installation of the charging box has to be approved by each local municipality.
Electric Cars in LA Limelight- Carlos Ghosn, CEO of both Nissan and French carmaker Renault, gave the keynote address to kick off the show’s media days. After nodding to the severe financial pressures facing all carmakers in the current market slowdown, he reiterated Nissan’s plans to offer an electric vehicle in the US and Japan in 2010 for commercial customers and large fleets, with showroom sales to consumers in 2012. Ghosn envisions as many as seven million pure electric vehicles being sold around the world by 2020.
First Drive: The Mini Cooper Clubman- U.S. auto journalists got their first “ride and drive” of the efficient and quirky Mini Cooper Clubman at a press launch in Monterey, California on Tuesday.