MINI Cooper vs. Fiat: Which is Better?

Drivers who compare MINI Cooper vs. Fiat are practically guaranteed to drive home with a smile, but we think that Minnetonka-area drivers will be much happier with a MINI SAV®. Compared to their Italian rivals, the models in the MINI Cooper lineup are more reliable, easier to maintain, and generally more luxurious. Don’t just take our word for it! We’ve covered everything you need to know.

MINI Cooper vs. Fiat: Brand Comparison

MINI Cooper vehicles and Fiat vehicles are similar in size, and comparable in terms of power. Both offer impressive levels of luxury, and you’ll have options no matter which brand you end up settling on. But if you dig a little deeper, you’ll see that MINI has a lot more to offer:

MINI Cooper vs. Fiat – Reliability

No driver wants to spend a fortune maintaining their vehicle, and according to J.D. Power, MINI vehicles are much more reliable than models from Fiat. 

• J.D. Power most recently evaluated Fiat in 2019, when they found that these vehicles experienced an average of 249 problems per 100 vehicles sold (249 PP100). 
• MINI vehicles were much less likely to have issues. In their 2021 evaluation, they notched a score of 125 problems per 100 vehicles sold (125 PP100). 

This data suggests that a new Fiat is likely to experience almost twice as many problems as a new MINI over an average three-year period.

MINI Cooper vs. Fiat – Warranty & Maintenance

Both MINI and Fiat offer standard four-year, 50,000-mile limited warranty coverage. Additionally, each brand backs up their drivers with complimentary roadside assistance. However, where regular maintenance is concerned, MINI has a clear edge:

• All new MINI purchases include complimentary scheduled maintenance for three years or 36,000 miles.
• Fiat only covers scheduled maintenance for one year. 
• Although you can purchase additional coverage for your Fiat, there’s no reason to pay extra for the benefits that MINI offers as standard.

Fiat 500L vs. MINI Cooper Hardtop

Fiat 500 vs. MINI Cooper is a classic matchup for drivers who want to purchase a stylish, European subcompact. Now that the well-loved 500 has been retired, we think the most important comparison is between the 2020 Fiat 500L, starting at $22,500 MSRP, and the 2022 MINI Cooper Hardtop 2 Door, which starts at $22,900 MSRP. 

Here’s what you should know about these fierce competitors: