MINI Convertible

The MINI Convertible provides the driving enthusiast with a unique combination of fun-to-drive performance, engineering and unconventional open-top attitude for four.
The Convertible is available in three different trims: the Cooper with a 121-hp 1.6-liter inline four-cylinder engine, the Cooper S with a direct-injection, 181-hp turbocharged 1.6-liter engine, or the John Cooper Works with a 208-hp version of the Cooper S turbo engine. All trims are mated to either a six-speed manual or optional six-speed automatic transmission. Standard safety equipment includes four airbags, automatic pop-up roll hoops, electronic traction and stability control and anti-lock brakes. A wide variety of interior trim materials and colors are available, as well as features such as bi-xenon headlights, sport suspension, Dynamic Traction Control, navigation system, harman/kardon audio, parking sensors, and satellite radio. Bluetooth and HD radio are standard equipment.
For 2013, Bluetooth and the USB/iPod adapter are now standard, and an automatic transmission is being offered on the JCW for the first time.

 Review Summaries

What reviewers liked most about the MINI Convertible:

The deft suspension and the always-there brakes have no trouble managing the Mini's minuscule mass.
-- Car and Driver
The pinstriped cloth seat's bunwarmers fry your derriere if you keep them on "high" for more than two minutes.
-- Motor Trend
The toggle switches and the stalk switches for the headlights and turn signals are pleasing to look at and offer a satisfying feel in use, clearly benefiting from the BMW touch.
-- New Car Test Drive

What reviewers liked least about the MINI Convertible:

In spite of a much lower top stack and the use of pop-up roll hoops in place of the old fixed ones, rear vision in the new Cooper convertibles is still pretty lousy.
-- Car and Driver

MINI Convertible Comparisons:

The Mazda MX-5 Miata and Volkswagen Eos book-end the Mini's price point and offer retractable hardtops, but the former only has two seats and the latter isn't nearly as fun.