Are MINI Coopers cheap to insure?
Get to know Mini Cooper insurance groups and see if it fits your budget
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One of the UK’s favourite hatchbacks, the Mini Cooper has a loyal following among new drivers, experienced drivers and everyone in between.
Mini Cooper insurance price is one of the big things you’ll consider before taking the plunge, so you might be pleased to know it can be cheap to get covered.
Cheap Mini Cooper insurance is one of the benefits of owning these iconic models, but you’ll need to stay away from performance variants to keep costs low.
Learn more about Mini Cooper insurance group prices in our guide.
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Mini Cooper insurance group ratings explained
The cost of car insurance is decided on two things – your car and your personal circumstances.
Things like your driving experience, previous insurance claims, and annual mileage all affect your premiums.
Cars are also placed into insurance groups one to 50 to give an indicator of price, with the lowest groups being the cheapest to get covered.
Factors that influence insurance groups include:
Performance of the car
Security features
Safety features
Original cost of the car
Mini Cooper insurance groups
While the instantly recognisable styling gives the Mini Hatch Cooper its appeal, its running costs won't scare you off.
Models from 2024 onwards sit in insurance groups 21 to 25. The 1.5 C Classic sits in the lowest group 21, while the 2.0-litre engine options move into group 25.
The Mini John Cooper Works is another Mini model that’s massively popular, but it can be among the priciest to insure. Models from 2008 to 2016 sit in groups 28 to 37.
Like we mentioned before, personal factors can still impact insurance costs, so don’t take insurance groups as the be-all and end-all. It’s best to get some insurance quotes for an accurate price.
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Most affordable Mini Cooper models and engines to insure
Your best bet for cheaper Cooper insurance is to choose smaller engines and the entry-level trims.
Cars that will cost less to replace or repair through an insurance claim, or models that don’t pack too much power, are typically the favourites among insurance providers.
For the cheapest Mini Cooper insurance, you can look for ‘Classic’ trim models with a 1.5-litre engine, or try the ‘Exclusive’ trims if you’re fine with potentially paying slightly more.
If you want a Mini with even cheaper running costs, it might be worth considering an older model Mini Hatchback. These have that same iconic Cooper feel, but cars from around 2014 sit in insurance groups 11 to 30.
Average Mini Cooper insurance cost for young drivers
Considering its popularity among young drivers, it’s easy to assume the Cooper can be a fairly affordable option for young drivers – and you’d be right.
Depending on the model, Mini Coopers can be an affordable option for new motorists but aren’t the cheapest out there. You’ll still need to get a quote to see accurate prices.
Insurance providers typically see new drivers as more of a risk. Luckily, your insurance costs are likely to drop the longer you’re on the roads – especially if you’re building up a no-claims discount.
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How do Mini Cooper insurance prices compare?
The Mini Cooper faces some stiff competition from some other iconic hatchbacks, but how do they compare on insurance costs?
Mini Cooper vs. Fiat 500
The Fiat 500 can often be a direct alternative for anyone considering a Mini Hatchback – they're both uniquely styled and eye-catching.
Fuel-powered Fiat 500 models can sit in insurance groups nine to 19, depending on the model you choose.
The latest Fiat 500e electric offerings are typically in groups 15 to 18.
Mini Cooper Vs. Volkswagen Golf
Another rival to the Cooper is the equally iconic VW Golf. Not only is the Mini a rival of Volkswagen itself, but the Mini brand is owned by another competitor – BMW. That takes the competition up a notch.
Volkswagen Golf models from 2020 onwards are usually in insurance groups 18 to 27, so around the same as Mini Hatchback Cooper models from the same period.
Getting cheaper Mini Cooper car insurance
If you still want to get your car insurance costs down, there are a few ways you might be able to save more:
Get a few quotes from car insurance sites
Try and knock down your annual mileage
Choose a safer location to park overnight
Could black box insurance be an option?
Steer clear of car modifications
Add another driver with more experience to your policy
Take a look at our full range of used Mini Coopers to find one that fits your budget.