“The only thing I would change on the vehicle is auto-up windows when you close the convertible top (it has auto-down when opening). It is odd to have to then use the window controls to close them the last 40%.”
2015 MINI Roadster: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2015 MINI Roadster is a light update, led by standard rain-sensing wipers and automatic climate control on every trim. It is not a redesign, and the Cooper, Cooper S, and John Cooper Works lineup carries over.
About the 2015 MINI Roadster
R59 Roadster, first and only U.S. generation (2012-2015), final model year.
MINI sold the Roadster as a tiny, open-top two-seater built around personality, quick reactions, and sunny-day fun rather than everyday practicality. Its core draw was MINI’s trademark go-kart-like handling, a short wheelbase, bold styling, and a real trunk in place of rear seats. Compared with other small sporty convertibles, it stood out by blending playful MINI design with a more focused two-seat layout and a performance ladder that ranged from relaxed Cooper to very serious John Cooper Works.
The Cooper is the simpler 121-hp version, with a manual soft top and an active rear spoiler. The 181-hp turbo Cooper S adds more punch, while the 208-hp John Cooper Works is the performance-focused model with stronger Brembo front brakes and a sport exhaust.
What changed, by category
Tech
Rain-sensing wipers and automatic climate control became standard on every Roadster trim.
Styling
The instrument dials changed to anthracite graphics. Cooper S and John Cooper Works models also gained standard LED fog lights.
2015 MINI Roadster specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, 1.6 Liter | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 1.6 Liter | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 1.6 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Steptronic | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Steptronic | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Steptronic |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 26 mpg | 25 mpg | 25 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 34 mpg | 34 mpg | 34 mpg |
| Horsepower | 121 hp | 181 hp | 208 hp |
| Torque | 114 lb-ft | 177 lb-ft | 192 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 8.5 cu-ft | 8.5 cu-ft | 8.5 cu-ft |
| Seats | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Doors | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Alarm System | |||
| Traction Control | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| Fog Lights | |||
| Rear Spoiler | |||
| Bluetooth | |||
| Navigation System | |||
| Premium Audio | |||
| Smartphone Interface | |||
| USB Ports | |||
| Heated Front Seats | |||
| Leather Seats | |||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | |||
| Push-Button Engine Start | |||
Frequently asked questions
Was the 2015 MINI Roadster redesigned?
No. The 2015 MINI Roadster received a small equipment and appearance update rather than a redesign, and it remained part of the same R59 generation.
What became standard on every 2015 MINI Roadster?
Rain-sensing wipers and automatic climate control became standard on every 2015 MINI Roadster, including the Cooper, Cooper S, and John Cooper Works.
Which 2015 MINI Roadster trims received LED fog lights?
The Cooper S and John Cooper Works received standard LED fog lights for 2015. The base Cooper did not get this change.
Did the 2015 MINI Roadster trim lineup change?
No. The lineup remained Cooper, Cooper S, and John Cooper Works, ranging from the 121-hp base model to the 208-hp performance version.
Is the 2015 MINI Roadster meaningfully different from the 2014 model?
Only slightly. Its main advantages over the 2014 model are standard rain-sensing wipers and automatic climate control across the lineup, anthracite instrument graphics, and standard LED fog lights on Cooper S and John Cooper Works models.
2015 MINI Roadster Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2015 MINI Roadster.
4.8
2015 MINI Roadster
(41 reviews)
“I love this car. Love. That is not without saying there aren't any issues or watchouts about the MINI Roadster, namely being aware of the enormous blind spot when backing out of spaces with the top up. When it's down visibility is incredible but not easy with top up. I would recommend this vehicle to anyone who is a good driver that knows what they are doing and are conscientious.”
“need a bike rack for my 2015 roadster -was told that this was definitely no problem - but upon delivery I was on my own to find a solution - frustrating would love to have a bike rack option that does not compromise the backlight.....”