2012 MINI Coupe: What's New, Specs & Features

Last updated August 4, 2026

The big news for 2012 is the launch of the all-new MINI Coupe. It was MINI's first two-seat production model in the US, with a low roof and an automatic rear spoiler.

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About the 2012 MINI Coupe

First-generation MINI Coupe (R58), first model year in the US.

MINI positions the Coupe as the most focused, driver-centered version of its small-car formula: a low-roof, two-seat sports coupe built around quick responses, playful handling, and standout design. Compared with the regular Hardtop, it gives up rear seats for a more dramatic shape and a useful cargo area behind the front seats. The main appeal is compact size, sharp steering feel, distinctive styling, and an everyday-usable but driver-first layout.

The Cooper Coupe is the entry point, pairing a 121-hp engine with a two-seat cabin and 9.8 cubic feet of cargo room behind the seats. The Cooper S adds a 181-hp turbocharged engine, while the 208-hp John Cooper Works model tops the range with larger sport brakes and a more aggressive body kit. Every version has a cargo pass-through and an automatic rear spoiler.

What changed, by category

Structural

MINI introduced an all-new two-seat coupe body with a lower roof, extra headroom cutouts in the headliner, 9.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the seats and a pass-through into the cabin.

Styling

The new Coupe received a distinctive low-roof shape and an automatic rear spoiler that rises at speed to improve stability.

Powertrain

The launch range spans a 121-hp 1.6-liter four-cylinder in the Cooper, a 181-hp turbocharged 1.6-liter in the Cooper S and a 208-hp turbocharged 1.6-liter in the John Cooper Works model.

2012 MINI Coupe specs and features by trim

Feature	2012 MINI CoupeCooper0 in stock	2012 MINI CoupeCooper S0 in stock	2012 MINI CoupeJohn Cooper Works1 in stock
Engine	4-Cyl, 1.6 Liter	4-Cyl, Turbo, 1.6 Liter	4-Cyl, Turbo, 1.6 Liter
Transmission	Manual, 6-Spd	Manual, 6-Spd	Manual, 6-Spd
Drivetrain	FWD	FWD	FWD
Fuel Type	Gas	Gas	Gas
MPG City	28 mpg	26 mpg	25 mpg
MPG Highway	36 mpg	34 mpg	33 mpg
Horsepower	121 hp	181 hp	208 hp
Torque	114 lb-ft	177 lb-ft	192 lb-ft
Trunk/Cargo	9.8 cu-ft	9.8 cu-ft	9.8 cu-ft
Seats	2	2	2
Doors	2	2	2
Safety & Security
Alarm System
Traction Control
Exterior Features
Alloy Wheels
Fog Lights
Rear Spoiler
Entertainment & Electronics
Navigation System
Premium Audio
Satellite Radio
Smartphone Interface
Comfort & Convenience
Heated Front Seats
Leather Seats
Proximity Keyless Entry
Push-Button Engine Start

How the 2013 MINI Coupe compares

The 2013 MINI Coupe is a light-update year, not a redesign. The main change is standard Bluetooth hands-free calling across the lineup.

See the full 2013 changes

Frequently asked questions

Was 2012 the first year for the MINI Coupe?

Yes. The 2012 model year marked the MINI Coupe's US debut and the start of its first generation. It was also MINI's first two-seat production model.

How many seats does the 2012 MINI Coupe have?

The 2012 MINI Coupe has two seats. Behind them is a 9.8-cubic-foot cargo area with a pass-through opening into the cabin.

What are the differences among the 2012 MINI Coupe trims?

The Cooper has a 121-hp engine, the Cooper S has a 181-hp turbocharged engine, and the John Cooper Works model has a 208-hp turbocharged engine. The John Cooper Works version also has larger sport brakes and a more aggressive aerodynamic body kit.

Is every 2012 MINI Coupe turbocharged?

No. The 121-hp Cooper uses a non-turbo 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine. The 181-hp Cooper S and 208-hp John Cooper Works models use turbocharged 1.6-liter engines.

Does every 2012 MINI Coupe have an automatic rear spoiler?

Yes. An automatic rear spoiler is fitted across the 2012 Coupe range and rises at speed to help improve high-speed stability.