If you're looking for MINI Cooper aftermarket parts, upgrades or accessories for your 2002-2021 and newer MINI Cooper and Cooper S R50/R53/R56/F56 Hardtop / Hatchback, R58 Coupe, R59 Roadster, F55 Four Door Hatchback, R55/F54 Clubman, R52/R57/F57 Convertible, R60/F60 Countryman, R61 Paceman, you've come to right place. We've gathered a cross section of great information to help when buying a used or new MINI as well as shopping for parts and accessories for the correct MINI Cooper generation / model you have. While this is not a true buyers guide for MINI Cooper models we do cover some great info to be aware of when shopping.

Please select your MINI model from the drop down menu above under the OutMotoring logo or scroll down and click on the image or links associated with the MINI model you have to start shopping for parts and accessories.

Our online catalog is full of parts and accessories for EVERY model MINI Cooper and EVERY year (2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021 and beyond).

You're in luck, if you're looking for racing, tuning upgrades, or performance parts for your MINI we're the industry leader for all types of parts and accessories for all MINI Cooper and Cooper S models.

Please select your model from the drop down menu below the OutMotoring logo (or from the links/images below) to start shopping. If you don't know what model you have please scroll down and select from the images below (and reference the body style and production dates). The production DATE of your MINI is listed on the drivers side door jamb.

*To shop only for a particular MINI model, continue selecting categories/products via the click-through navigation. The "Search" bar searches the entire site regardless of model (unless you select your model from the search box drop down menu). Each product has a specific fitment guide in the product overview. Always double-check that the product you are ordering lists your model in its fitment guide!

R-fifty WHAT?



MINI Cooper models are categorized using the letter R or F and then 2 digits. This is the chassis code format that BMW uses. There are some inconsistencies but for the most part they are pretty intuitive. Generation 1 and 2 MINIs start with the letter "R" while the generation 3 MINIs start with the letter "F."

Body Styles

Hatchbacks/Hardtops (R50, R53, R56 and F56 models) are defined as any 2 door MINI Cooper that seat 4 and have a 'hatchback' type trunk that hinges from the top of the roof and has a boxy overall shape (not to be confused with the R58 Coupe). MINI started referring to this model as the 'Hardtop' when they heavily diversified in 2011.

Four Door Hatchback (F55) was released in 2015 and is basically a stretched Hatchback with 2 extra rear passenger doors and is sometimes called the 4 door hardtop (totally confusing too). It is NOT the Clubman which has dual barn doors in the rear.

Convertibles (R52, R57 and F57 models) are the 2 door MINI that seats 4 and have a convertible soft top. Clubman (R55 and F54 models) are the slightly longer than the hardtop MINI model and have either the 3rd door on one side (or 4 door type released in 2016). Clubman have the dual side hinged rear doors. Coupe (R58 model) seating for 2 and have a large glass-filled rear hatch. This is a less common MINI body style but has a distinctive roof line which some describe as a helmet. Roadsters (R59 model) are similar to the Coupe in that they only seat 2 but are a convertible. Countryman (R60 and F60) the larger models that have 4 doors and more bulky appearance. They look like a small SUV and have a taller/fuller body than other MINIs. The Countryman is different from the Four Door and Clubman models and is often confused with the Clubman. Please review the images carefully to confirm your model. Paceman (R61) is nearly identical to the Countryman but only have 2 doors yet seat 4. Paceman are fairly rare and had a short life span of just 5 years from 2011 to 2015. Cooper vs Cooper S:

Within each of these body styles are the base MINI Cooper, Cooper S and JCW (John Cooper Works) model. Generation 1 'S' models had a supercharged engine while the Generation 2 Cooper S models had a Turbo. Generation 3 are also Turbo charged. It's best to either look at your MINI and study the following. Exhaust Tips: One of the biggest visual differences are the exhaust tips on the S model. Cooper S models have DUAL center exit tips (aside from the Clubman, Paceman and Countryman which have single tips on either side of the bumper). All Cooper base models have a SINGLE exhaust tip. Hood Scoop: In general the Cooper S models have a hood scoop (functional on the gen1 S and onward just for styling/continuity for the "S" model). However the Countryman and Paceman MINIs did not have hood scoops at all. Grill: Grill on the Cooper are typically horizontal slats vs the black mesh on the Cooper S model. Many Cooper owners (gen2) upgraded to the black mesh style grill to make it look like a S. Gen1 Cooper and S model MINIs both came from the factory with horizontal slat grills but the Cooper S model generally (unless it had the Aero body kit) had body colored (unless it had the Chromeline exterior package) slats while the Cooper had chrome slats.

Side Markers: MINI will often use more basic looking black or silver side marker housings with orange side lights on the base models and Chrome on the S models along with white or clear side marker lights.

Misc: Base models often have smaller wheels, and will often will have the basic flatter seats vs the sport seats. Also, on models that would allow the S model will have a chrome 'sport' looking gas lid cover and of course the S models should say "Cooper S" on the back vs just "Cooper". Models with the JCW or John Cooper Works kit should have exterior badges on the front and rear and in some cases in the engine bay or interior door sills, etc.

JCW - John Cooper Works: This optional package is available in a range of versions from styling to brakes, body kit, performance and a mish mash of combinations throughout production years. Initially only targeted as a option for "S" models there were some years where certain JCW options were offered to base models. In general S models could be optioned UP to a JCW and there's no definitive answer to what constitutes a JCW for any given model, but in general should have the JCW performance upgrades to be a true JCW, although the wide range of accessories led to some interesting hybrid versions of what a John Cooper Works car really is.

It's CONFUSING! Drop us a line or give us a call if you have any questions before ordering. If you'd like to continue reading you'll likely pick up bits of information that will turn you into a professional and will be able to talk like a long time MINI owner at your next MINI club meeting.

Gen 1 vs Gen 2 vs Gen3: We cluster MINI models into 3 basic generations describing the major design changes and major model upgrades. Each cluster is listed below referenced by Generation 1, Generation 2 and Generation 3. With few exceptions NOTHING from a Gen 1 MINI will work on a Gen 2 MINI so forth. Many other retailers have not updated their websites and have the wrong fitments listed for product descriptions. We put a ton of effort into keeping our descriptions and categories up to date, but if you find an error please let us know via email.

Click the image that matches your MINI to start shopping OR select the model from the drop down menu below our logo.







Generation 1: General Information







R53- S MINI Cooper S Hatchback: 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006



The R53 was released a few months after the first wave of base R50 models were sold in the USA and while there are SOME 2002 models on the market the bulk of the R53's first production run were sold as 2003 models in very late 2002. This model seats 4 and has 2 doors and hatch with a decent amount of storage and shares the iconic profile of what most people associate with the MINI brand. It is easiest to tell a base model R50 from the R53 (which was supercharged) by the single exhaust tip on the right side vs dual tips in the center on the R53. The R53 also has a hood scoop. The base Cooper R50 and all R52 models also had a body colored flat gas lid cover while the S Hatchback had a chrome 'race inspired' cover. The R53 had chrome side marker lights with a red S and clear lights while the R50 has orange lights.

Shop for parts for parts and accessories for the 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, and 2006 R53 Cooper S Hatchback model here.

The R50 base Cooper is normally aspirated and R53 Cooper S Hatchback is supercharged and both have a 4 cylinder engine which was used throughout production. The Cooper engine is a W10 while the Cooper S engine is the W11. The automatic transmission used on the R50 known as the "dreaded CVT" is pretty much garbage and as a result these pop up on the used market for super cheap as replacing the transmission (even with a used one) costs more than these are now worth. The R53 had the Asian automatic transmission which is also problematic- but not as bad as the CVT. The pre 2005 BASE Cooper models had horizontal 'bumper-ettes' accents on the bumpers which were removed when the facelift happened in 2005 which brought a more aggressive and modern look. The base R50 models had a 4 slat chrome upper grill which gave it a retro look that MINI was going for. Pre facelift cars also had the reverse light in the middle of the bumper while the 2005 and newer models the reverse light was moved to the lower inner brake light and a optional rear fog light was offered in the rear lower bumper. While the sport seats were a option for the R50 model the vast majority base models have the basic seats which have a flatter seat and side bolsters compared to the standard sport seats in the S model which have larger bolsters. Also, the R53 had a stainless steel set of pedals vs basic black on the R50. The R53 had the same bumpers and grill throughout the model range. The R53 S models had a 3 slat body colored (or chrome) upper grill which gave it a retro look that MINI was going for. JCW or John Cooper Works models with the JCW/Aero Body Kit have black mesh grills along with the aggressively style front and rear bumpers and side skirts with the top 4" painted body color to make the door panel look 'taller'.

R53 Cooper S models have the sport seats as standard which have deeper side and thigh bolsters compared to the seats in the S model (aka the 'sport' seat). The R53 models (especially those with NO sunroof) make incredible track day cars and daily drivers given their gas mileage. Produced in 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, and 2006 this model is getting to be quite old now but still worth every penny. The dollar per smile ratio is insanely good. Even after being on the road since 2002 these cars still attract looks at stop lights, parking lots and just about everywhere they go. These are destined to be classics in just a few years so be on the lookout for low mileage cars as we have seem a fair amount of these purchased as weekend cars that simply never got out as much. They are often either well cared for and pampered or totally abused and modded out by multiple owners with varying levels of taste and budget. You have been warned. In the middle are also some good cars but in all cases do your homework and look for service records and general upkeep. The R53 model was also offered in a fairly popular JCW or John Cooper Works model which had some very welcome additions and upgrades. Be certain that you're not paying for the JCW package unless it really has it which would mean it has a numbered badge on the valve cover, silver JCW intercooler cover, slash tips with JCW logo etched, smaller supercharger pulley, tuning software, JCW closed intake housing with JCW logo and a few other details. The JCW was at times offered with or without the red JCW brake calipers and or the JCW/Aero Bodykit,and door sills. On top of that MINI also offered some very rare carbon fiber interior parts such as the dash, cupholder and shift knob trim ring and columns next to the radio. Carbon fiber shift and ebrake handles were also available. They also offered a leather dash option too. These option are exceptionally rare and worth seeking out. As of 2018 nearly all of these parts have been officially discontinued by MINI and are no longer available- including the popular Aero Body Ki.

Generation 1: Convertible













The 2002-2006 MINI Cooper and Cooper S Supercharged Convertible model number is "R52" (yes, they changed their naming convention with this model) and is among the first original 'new MINI' called the Generation 1 or Gen1. This model seats 4 and has 2 doors and a small trunk storage area. While a convertible it shares the iconic profile of what most people associate with the MINI brand. Shop for parts and accessories for the 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, and 2008 R53 Model MINI Cooper S Convertible here.

The R52 was released as part of the facelift that occurred in the 2005 model year with the hatchbacks yet the 2004 model convertibles incorporates the changes noted above. The R52 "S" supercharged and base model model are very stable cars and continue to be a great value for those looking for a convertible that handles like a go-kart. The convertibles don't tend to get run into the higher mileage range as they tend to be purchased as 2nd or weekend cars. They tend to be well cared for as the buyers are typically a bit more mature and most buyers looking for a car to modify and race will buy a hatchback over a convertible. Just keep an eye out for proper service history, and the issues described in the general Gen1 section agove. Other than that the R52 model is a great car. Please reference info above on the R50 and R53 as much of the information applies to the R52 range as well. MINI also offered this model (mostly only the Cooper S model) with some or all of the various JCW components as noted below in the R53 section but we have found that most original buyers of a JCW R52 Cooper S would usually 'plunk down' the bucks and get these cars more or less fully loaded and optioned. Also, be on the lookout for the full leather interior in this model as it looks amazing.

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Generation 2: General Information

The 2nd generation, which includes the R55, R56, R57, R58, R59, R60 and R61 of the MINI range was a completely new development from the ground up. Aside from door handles, rear view mirrors, pedals, emblems and few other bits there are very few parts that are interchangeable between gen1 and gen2 models. MINI introduced a completely new range of engines, with the S model getting a turbo for the first time.

The gen2 Cooper S uses a turbocharged 1.6 4 cylinder engine which started out in 2007 (hatchback R56) with the N14 model engine and was replaced with the N18 engine in 2011 (but the JCW/ John Cooper Works model kept the N14 into the 2012 production year). The base model has the N12 engine to 2010 and was then replaced with the N16. It's important to note that gen 2 "S" models are turbocharged while the previous generation "S" models are supercharged. This is one of the most confusing details that many get wrong.

The Cooper S model will have a hood scoop and dual center exhaust tips while the base model will have a single tip on the right side. In 2011 MINI made some cosmetic interior and exterior changes to the front and rear bumpers (the S model got integrated brake ducts too), front grill mesh pattern became larger on the S model, brake lights, rear fog lights became more streamlined and integrated into the rear lower grill, center console design and radio/CD player layout, black steering wheel and center console accents (vs silver in the pre 2011 range) and a few other very minor changes. The base model R56 typically had black side marker housings with orange lights while the S had Chrome side markers with clear lights. The base Cooper also has chrome slat grill while the Cooper S has a black mesh grill from the factory- but are NOT interchangeable.

Generation 2: Clubman









The R55 Clubman Cooper and Cooper S Turbo model was MINIs way to explore slightly larger models with a bit more room in the back for passengers, a extra 'suicide' door on the passenger side along with barn doors in the back that gave it a unique look, added storage space and accessibility. By all accounts it was a successful project as it led into the Countryman and Paceman models as well as the replacement for the Clubman in the 2015 model year with a even larger F54 Clubman model station wagon-like MINI with 4 doors. The Clubman continues to be a sought after model for its unique longer wheelbase and overall styling to the back end. From the drivers seat forward it's the same as the R56, R57 and other Gen2 models (with some minor exceptions) and brought in new buyers to the MINI brand that needed just a little bit more space. Shop for parts and accessories for the 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, and 2014 R55 Model MINI Cooper S Turbo Clubman here.

When introduced in 2008 it was not as popular as the classic hatchback but it still held its own place in the market. Like other gen2 models the R55 was available in both a Cooper and Cooper S. As with other similar gen2 models the R55 also had a facelift in 2011 where it received the new front bumper with the brake ducts, refreshed interior with black accents vs the silver, newer center console/radio layout and a few other changes including shifting to the N18 engine (again, aside from the JCW which kept the N14 into the 2012 year). We have found that the R55 Clubman side door trim and gaskets are prone to leak as are the rear barn door gaskets and seals. Replacing these with new parts is way more expensive than it should so get a quote before settling on a purchase price. We have also found that the side mirror to body and antenna gaskets crack easily when exposed to the harsh sun and you have to buy whole new mirrors or antenna just to fix those small gaskets. The R55 Clubman Cooper S was also available in a JCW package which had even larger dual outward mounted exhaust tips, a more aggressive front and rear bumper and side skirts (if the car was spec'd with the JCW body kit) and the other JCW engine and performance upgrades as well as the sought after JCW Brembo brakes, JCW interior accents (shift knob, ebrake and steering wheel - if optioned) and the JCW engine mods which include a tune, exhaust, exhaust manifold and few other bits. Over the year MINI offered variations of the full performance, styling or just braking kit as well as the FULL combination so be aware.

Generation 2: Hatchback





The 2007-2013 MINI Cooper and Cooper S Hatchback model number is "R56" and is the 2nd Generation model that replaced the gen1 hatchback models in 2007 with a completely new car from top to bottom. This model seats 4 and has 2 doors and hatch with a decent amount of storage and shares the iconic profile of what most people associate with the MINI brand.

Shop for parts and accessories for the 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, and 2013 R56 Model MINI Cooper S Turbo Hatchback here.

The R56 Cooper S uses a turbocharged 1.6 4 cylinder engine which started out in 2007 with the N14 model engine and was replaced with the N18 engine in 2011 (but the JCW/ John Cooper Works model kept the N14 into the 2012 production year). The base model has the N12 engine to 2010 and was then replaced with the N16. It's important to note that gen 2 "S" models are turbocharged while the previous generation "S" models are supercharged. This is one of the most confusing details that many get wrong.

MINI offered the "S" model with a JCW / John Cooper Works package which can include a wide range of performance, aesthetic or suspension kits as well as can be purchased and installed ala carte. Confirm if a MINI was built with the full JCW kit including intake, body kit, Brembo brakes, steering wheel, software, exhaust, manifold, tune, etc or if it just had JCW components added after the fact- either ala carte or some variation of the JCW kit MINI offered it it in any given year as it changed many times.

Generation 2: Convertible





The R57 Convertible model is the 2nd generation offering from MINI and replaces the popular R52 model with all new styling and engineering that matches the hatchback that was released 2 years earlier with the R55 Clubman coming in 2008. They must have been slammed at MINI with the release of 3 major models back to back. The R57 was introduced as 2009 and was sold as a base Cooper and Cooper S Turbo model with JCW variants.

Shop for parts and accessories for the 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, and 2015 R57 model MINI Cooper S Turbo Convertible here.

The R57 Cooper is normally aspirated while the Cooper S uses a turbocharged 1.6 4 cylinder engine which started out in 2009 with the N14 model engine and was replaced with the N18 engine in 2011 (but the JCW/ John Cooper Works model kept the N14 into the 2012 production year). The base Cooper R57 model has the N12 engine to 2010 and was then replaced with the N16. The R57 Cooper and Cooper S also had a mid cycle refresh in 2011 as other gen2 models. This includes front and rear bumpers, interior center console/radio and dash/steering wheel accent color changed from silver to black. The engine upgrades applied as well (nN14 to N18 on the S and N12 to N16 on the base). The R57 was available in some very unique color combos such as brown exterior and matching top with tan leather as well green with matching top and a few other stunning color combos. See our notes from the R56 section about the JCW packages as they apply to this model too. We've found that most convertibles tend to be built for 'style' and not performance as the additional weight of the top, less rigid chassis and design shift this car more to a weekend fun car and less of a track car. Finding fully decked out models should be easy though as the original buyers usually did not mind spending more $$ on these models.

Generation 2: Coupe









The R58 Coupe shows MINIs flexibility with the same platform that other popular gen2 models were built from and attracts a different buyer than most other models offered. Some may consider it a bit quarky and sales figures follow that direction but it's actually quite a cool vehicle. The 2 door, 2 seat design with 'backwards baseball hat' roof design gave it a unique flavor. Aside from the interior layout the A pillar forward is basically the same as the R55/6/7 models and the larger hatchback offered a good amount of storage for those that do not need a back seat.

Even though this model has relatively low sales it was still quite a attractive car with some great features that appealed to previous and new MINI owners but it just never took off as it could have. Maybe that is due to low gas prices and the trend towards small SUV's. Who knows.

The R58, like all other MINI models is available in a base Cooper and Cooper S model but being introduced along with the facelift of the R55/6 and R57 models has the newer style front and rear bumpers, interior console layout and the N18 engine on the Cooper S and the N16 on the base Cooper. The same exterior details apply to this as well so the base model has black side markers and orange lights along with a single right side exhaust while the Turbo S has a hood scoop, chrome side marker housings and clear lights along with dual center exhaust tips.

Because this car was introduced in 2011 along with the facelift on other gen2 models it has the N18 engine (Cooper S Turbo) and the base model has the N16 engine. Like other models the S has a black mesh grill along with dual exhaust tips in the center vs the single tip on the right on the base model. Base models have the black side markers and orange lights while the S has the Chrome version with clear lights.

We've yet to see any common problem areas with these cars aside from the standard issues listed above in the general information section for the gen2 model range.

With other gen2 models the S model was available in a JCW variant so be on the lookout for the large red Brembo brakes, full JCW body kit, John Cooper Works exhaust tips and other features that come along with the JCW package.

Generation 2: Roadster





The R59 Roadster came out just a year after the Coupe and brought with it the open top that many MINI owners crave but it in a 2 door, 2 seater ready for weekend travel and fun. While it has the same wheelbase as the hatchback and convertible, it managed to feel and look smaller. The Roadster is a beautiful MINI model but can sometimes get confused with the R57 convertible, given it's a convertible too but only seats 2 and was not as popular overall. MINI really did a LOT with gen2 platform and the R58 and R59 are examples of what can happen when you give a team of designers and engineers the option to make the most out of a single platform.

R59 Roadsters in the Turbo S model will all have the more stable N18 engine while the base models will have the N16 engine. Almost all other details, weak spots, common problem areas as covered in the R56/7/8 carry over to this model as well with the exception of the convertible roof feature.

While the R59 did not set any sales records it remains another great example of what a MINI can do and look especially good with the top down, and handle great even with the less rigid chassis that the R58 and R56 models have.

Also available as a JCW model the R59 is a great MINI for those that like the slightly smaller profile yet want open top motoring. These were sold in fairly low numbers so they simply don't come up on the market very often and as such demand for this and the R58 may up as time goes by.

Generation 2: Countryman









Once the confusion of what it's called is past the benefits and unique features the Countryman offers begin to bloom. Seating for up to 5 depending on interior layout, along with some industry firsts such as the center rail that allows for many MINI accessories such as armrests, cup holders, phone holders and even a tissue box remain popular features. The interior is roomy, access is easier with the higher ride height yet it still handled like a MINI which brought in customers from other brands by the thousands.

The first year or so of the R60 Cooper S Turbo up to the end of 2010 were given the N14 engine while the base models got the N12. Both were replaced in 2011 along with the massive mid model refresh called the "LCI" by the industry brought some changes to the center console, center speedometer housing, window controls and a few other minor details. Overall this model remains a favorite to many enthusiasts with some taking the high road and lifting them up to make them appear to be off road ready while utilizing the All4 4 wheel drive system that was a first for MINI or dropping them closer to the ground with lowering springs and sport suspension features like larger rear swaybars. By all accounts the Countryman R60 is a unique MINI that pushes the envelope of what it means to drive a MINI.

Differences between the base and S turbo model are subtle so pay attention to the front grill area and notice the black mesh vs horizontal slat design along with the side markers and rear exhaust to differentiate the 2. The base model, along with many other MINI models can feel a bit sluggish off the line due to the lack of power compared the higher HP Turbo Cooper S models. It's especially noticeable on the R60 Countryman, so consider narrowing your search to the S model.

Also, be on the lookout for the JCW model which offers a nice bump in power with a upgraded exhaust, ecu tune, JCW body kit and a few other nice upgrades. Full optioned the R60 is one of the most luxurious MINIs made and offer a very MINI driving experience with the extra space that many young families need.

Generation 2: Paceman









As with the R60 model the R61 Paceman is available in a base Cooper with the N16 engine and the turbo S model was only made with the N18 engine, however given their very low production numbers these are very rare compared to other MINI models.

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Generation 3: General Information





The F56 model brought with it the introduction of six all-new engines which were used in various gen3 models (4 gas, and 2 diesels), two models of a 1.2 litre three-cylinder petrol with either 75 bhp or 102 bhp, a 1.5 litre 3-cylinder petrol with 136 bhp, (BMW B38 engine), a 2.0 litre 4-cylinder petrol (BMW B48 engine) that produces 192 bhp for the Cooper S, and a 1.5 litre 3-cylinder diesel (BMW B37 engine) in 2 levels of power output: 95 bhp and 116 bhp (Cooper D), and a 2.0 litre turbo-diesel inline-4 (BMW B47 engine) that produces 168 bhp (Cooper SD). These engines are mated with a choice of either a 6-speed manual, a 6-speed automatic, or a 6-speed sports automatic gearbox. Note that some of the engines listed were never sold in the USA.



Generation 3: Clubman





Offered in a Cooper and Cooper S - both turbo charged, it can be confusing to label one o the other as a 'turbo' when both are, but the S model has a larger displacement, more power and styling cues that are quite attractive.

The F54 Clubman models are both excellent for growing families or those looking for a slightly larger footprint over the standard hatchback and also prefer the proportions or features over the very similar Four Door Hatchback. All in all the F54 is unique MINI with its own personality.

As this is a relatively newer model we have not seen any patterns of parts that are failing prematurely. The gen3 model range has proven to be quite sturdy and has been the cause of some MINI dealers service departments to be scrambling for work. Luckily there's a ton of N14, N18 and other Gen1 and Gen2 MINIs on the road to fill the service bays.

Generation 3: Four Door Hatchback







The F55 being a gen3 model benefits from lessons learned from the previous generations and while a much larger car overall still has strong MINI DNA and profile but the added accessibility of the 2 extra rear doors seems to be outselling the 2 door model- which is the opposite of what some would hope for but buyers wallets are speaking on the showroom floor.

Cooper base and Cooper S models both have turbos but the S model will have the signature (but non functional) hood scoop, dual center exhaust tips and the black mesh grill while the base models have the single right side exhaust, chrome slat grill and black side marker housings (vs chrome on the S model). Overall the R55 continues to be a top seller for MINI which could leave the future of the 2 door MINI hatchback at risk, however we're certain that from a marketing stand point MINI just can't be MINI without a hatchback to anchor the full line. John Cooper would roll over in his grave, as would Alex Issagonis.

There are few weak spots on this model but over time as these cars start to show their age we will get some updates on what common problem areas to be aware of. Aside from a engine update in 2015 (fairly minor), a minor update to the LED lighting system in 2016 there have only been a few changes to the gen3 F55 since it was released in 2015.

Generation 3: Hatchback











Wow, the R60 took the MINI to a whole new level and stretched the perception of the MINI brand beyond what most MINI owners were ready for but based on the sale figures the Countryman was well received and loved for its quirky, yet still MINI design DNA. The larger platform allowed for a true 'family' car experience with a higher ride height, four doors and decent sized trunk. Introduced in 2010, it was criticized for not being "MINI" enough but also praised for what it offered to a range of customers that would otherwise never considered buying a MINI. It remains a sore spot among some MINI enthusiasts but without it MINI would not be as successful as they are today as this model sold very well, although is endlessly confused with the Clubman due to confusing marketing, lack of emblems (which were finally added) and general confusion of it being sold as a MINI Cooper along with all other MINI Cooper models such as the Hatchback, Coupe, Clubman, etc.As MINI had done before with other Gen2 models they really wanted to see how far they could with any given platform and the R61 Paceman was their answer to thechallenge to do more with the R60 platform. While the front portion of the R61 Paceman is identical to its big brother nearly everything from the drivers seat back and up is unique to the Paceman. It too raised a few eyebrows in the MINI community but built a niche for itself as the slightly larger 2 door, 4 seater MINI that had the higher ride height and larger interior space of the Countryman. It had the same design DNA of other gen2 models and the hunkered down look of the backend gave it a more aggressive look.The generation 2 of the Clubman is a whole new model with features and design details never available before. While it replaced the R55 Clubman in 2016 it's truly a completely new vehicle featuring 4 doors and the familiar rear barn doors but other than that it's a MINI like none other. With wagon-like styling and a lower overall height compared to the bigger Countryman model, the new Clubman seems to hold it's own on the street. It's attracted yet another type of MINI buyer who simply need more space than the F55 Four Door, F56 Hatchback or F57 Convertible and like the lower to the ground ride offered vs the Countryman. The F54 is the first MINI offered with power seats. That, along with a comfortable, wider interior space aids in driver and passenger comfort while still maintaining the familiar MINI handling and styling.The F55 Four Door Hatchback is a natural progression for the MINI brand as it brings the range closer to what VW offers in a 4 door hatchback Golf model but with familiar MINI styling and brand values that some buyers seek. Who knows, maybe that trick VW pulled a few year back has shifted a few buyers towards MINI and based on sales figures it seems to be the case. The F55 fills a void that MINI owners wanted but likely would not say outloud at their local MINI club meeting. Let's face it, at some point a MINI is no longer a MINI when its a 'biggie' and some die hard enthusiasts feel that MINI should be a 2 door hatchback model only but a brand can't stay profitable following that model. MINI knows this which is why they released the F55 Four Door Hardtop to pair with the F56 2 door hardtop and also added other models to distribute development and manufacturing costs between the full line of cars. In the case of BMW it also means sharing platforms with their other products such as the X series. It's not a bad thing to benefit from this kind of thinking.While the R53 and R56 before it have certainly drawn massive amounts of good press and overall thrilling reviews based on handling and performance the gen3 hatchback model has some big shoes to fill. Buyers of the gen1 and gen2 models may seem apprehensive to jump into this new gen3 platform but over time, many have come around. There's simply so much the gen3 offers including the best technology, music, navigation, user interface, performance and dynamics that keep MINI on the top of the list of best handling hot hatches. The gen3 hatchback, like each model before, grew and little in every direction. As crash standards, safety requirements and other variables force manufacturers to put more metal between the driver and those around them cars have simply gotten larger and the F56 model (the first of the gen3 models released in 2014) showed this like no other MINI before it. Some had a hard time calling it a MINI when compared to the R53 and R56 hatchbacks. Others jumped in and enjoy the new technology, best interior design and comfort levels, MINI handling and highest power ratings and never looked back. The F56 is 98 mm longer, 44 mm wider, and 7 mm taller than the outgoing R56 model, with a 28 mm longer wheelbase and an increase in track width (+42 mm front and +34 mm rear).

The 3-door F56 base model Mini with an automatic transmission will do 0–60 mph in 7.3 seconds for the 1.5L 3-cylinder gas engine and the Cooper S will do 0-60 in 6.4 seconds with the 2.0L 4-cylinder engine.

The gen3 F series models is anchored with the F56 hatchback and only got larger and larger as extra interior space, accessibility and storage were added to create the F55, F54 and F60 models.

Generation 2: Convertible







Generation 3: Countryman













Still confused? No worries, read below or give us a call.





Gen1 MINI:

Gen2 MINI:

Gen3 MINI:

Mini vs MINI; Mini Classic vs 'new MINI':



Wrong MINI model listed?:

come shop for your MINI parts at OutMotoring.com. If you find a error on a product description, category or photograph please email us right away so we can fix it. We're only human and a few things slip by occasionally.

While we do love the classic Mini we do not sell products for the classic Mini which was produced under the Austin, Rover and other brands from the late 50's to the tail end of 1999/2000 when the new MINI was released under the BMW brand in 2002. Most MINI enthusiasts consider the 'classic Mini' to be the 'original' MINI and will typically type it out as "Mini" and will type out the new "MINI" in all caps.If you've shopped at other MINI Cooper accessory online webstores you may have noticed that they list parts for a 2007 and newer MINI and don't specify the difference between Hatchback, Clubman, Convertible or other models. If so they DON"T know what they are doing. RUN AWAY FAST! Or better yet,