As announced here several weeks ago the MINI Cooper S base price will be increasing by $450 dollars January 1st. From MINIUSA PR:

While MINI has only made minor pricing changes since its launch, the base price of the supercharged MINI Cooper S will increase by $450, effective January 1st 2004 to coincide with the beginning of January production.

The manufacturer's suggested retail price for the MINI Cooper will remain unchanged, maintaining its competitive price point of $16,999, including destination. The new MSRP for the MINI Cooper S will be $20,449, including destination. Pricing for available options and packages across the entire MINI range will remain the same.