The 2024 Cooper petrol automatic is the small turbo three‑cylinder with an automatic gearbox (often a dual‑clutch/Steptronic-type unit). It’s peppy around town and efficient for a petrol car, but Minis are built with a firm, sporty setup and tighter rear accommodation. Expect dealer/BMW network servicing and slightly higher parts/labour costs than mainstream superminis; optional sport packs or bigger alloys push insurance and running costs up.

• Automatic/DCT behaviour: check for smooth low-speed shifts, no shuddering or hesitation and confirm any gearbox fluid service was done to schedule.
• Turbo/engine response: on a run check for consistent boost, no unusual whistling or smoke under acceleration and no rough idling (3‑cylinder vibration can be noticeable if mounts are tired).
• Suspension and steering: listen for knocks over bumps, check for uneven tyre wear and wheel alignment—sporty Minis with low‑profile tyres can show worn bushes or damaged alloy rims.
• Electrics and driver aids: verify start/stop, reversing camera and parking sensors, infotainment and any ADAS functions work reliably and check for outstanding software recalls/updates.