Search: more on the MINI Convertible
The first-generation MINI Convertible like the hatchback, earned a reputation for being a sporty and stylish small convertible. So how does the latest version of the British-built German baby shape up? We find out.Face-lift changes?
The current R56 MINI has been been on sale since 2006, but it has taken until now for a convertible version to be available. Like the hatch, the new Convertible looks spookily similar to the outgoing car with the majority of changes taking place under the skin. Look closer at the exterior however, and at the back you'll spot the neater rear styling (the boot hinges are no longer visible, the improved roof design that can be opened at speeds of less than 20mph and all the fuel saving measures already seen on the MINI hatch. The Cooper and Cooper S and JCW Convertibles are available to order now and are priced from £15,995 - £23,470.
High-tech highlights
Apart from the new range of PSA developed engines and transmissions and new suspension, the main benefit of the R57 MINI Convertible over the previous R52 is it's 10% stiffer structure. This is great news, as the MINI's agile handling is unchanged despite the loss of the roof. Skuttle shake also seems to be totally eliminated, but we'd advise against bigger wheels as this has a bad effect on the ride.
The inside story
Inside, like the outside, changes for the latest MINI Convertible are hard to spot. Just an optional 'openometer' a gauge on the steering column that logs how long you have driven the car with the top down. I'm not sure I'd bother with this £115 option, as it was obviously designed for American and German left-hand drive buyers and covers one of the air vents. The rest of the cabin remains driver focused and there's an air of quality you'd expect of a car at this price. As is usual with MINI there's a big choice of interior trim options. Our particular favourite has to be the Leather Lounge Hot Chocolate option (£1,295).The seats themselves are really comfortable, supportive and the driving position is excellent. The rear seats are really just for kids and the boot is small, but the two rear seats fold to aid practicality.
Which engine?
We drove the 120bhp 1.6-litre Cooper, the 175bhp Cooper S and the range-topping 211bhp John Cooper Works. We suspect that the Cooper and Cooper S models will be the top sellers, but if you can stretch to it, the John Cooper Works makes an excellent case for itself.
What's it like to drive?
The chassis copes with the lack of a roof very well. The handling is entertaining and the steering, quick and accurate. The Cooper Convertible needs to be worked hard to give its best, but the Cooper S offers good performance where the Cooper is merely adequate. Straight line performance is most impressive in the MINI JCW, which never feels less than very rapid. This is a driver's car and urges you to push it harder and harder, with the reassurance of the biggest brakes ever fitted on a MINI. Manufactured by Brembo, they give excellent stopping power.
Summing up:
The latest MINI Convertible is the most accomplished version we've ever driven, we cannot think of a better alternative. Expect to see plenty of these on British roads this summer.
Want to see more? Check out our MINI Convertible gallery
