2017 Mini Hardtop: What's Changed

CARS.COM

• Most significant changes: The Media Package with a 6.5-inch dashboard screen and Bluetooth streaming audio is standard on all models.
• Price change: Prices jump $250 on base Cooper models and $300 on Cooper S and John Cooper Works models.
• Which should you buy, 2016 or 2017? 2017 because of the addition of the standard Media Package.

Related: 2017 Mini John Cooper Works Convertible Photo Gallery

The Mini Hardtop carries over for 2017 with no mechanical changes or major new features, but all models now come with the Media Package, which includes a 6.5-inch dashboard screen, Mini Connected, Bluetooth streaming audio with voice control, and a center armrest.

Last year, the Media Package was a $750 option on base Cooper and Cooper S models, so the standard equipment added for 2017 more than covers the price increases.

The two-door Hardtop was redesigned for 2014 and a roomier four-door was added for 2015. Base models return with a turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine that makes 134 horsepower, and the Cooper uses a 189-hp turbo 2.0-liter engine. The John Cooper Works performance-oriented model comes only as a two-door with an upgraded 2.0-liter engine that makes 228 hp. All three are available with a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission.

Mini offers buyers a long list of optional features and ways to customize the interior and exterior, including a Seven special-edition appearance package that is new for 2017. The model is a bonus for those who crave a car that is unique or nearly so, but going crazy with the options can boost this small car’s price to a level that’s higher than what you would pay for a midsize or larger car.

Though the four-door Hardtop is roomier and more practical than the two-door, it doesn’t match the space of hatchbacks such as the Ford Focus, Mazda3 or Volkswagen Golf. Mini, though, is more about overt expression, performance and customization than practicality.