2016 Mini Convertible first view

Compared to its predecessor, the new Mini Convertible is larger, better equipped and reputedly more refined.

Overall length and width have grown by 98 mm (3.9”) and 44 mm (1.7”) respectively. As a result, rear-seat passengers gain some extra space, plus maximum boot capacity is up by around 25% to 215 litres.

Mini Cooper S Convertible (2016) Front Side

The fabric roof, which is now fully electric, can be lowered in eighteen seconds at speeds of up to 18 mph (29 km/h). As part of an extensive personalisation programme, a striking woven black and grey union flag motif is available for the first time.

To improve the top-down looks (and rearward visibility for the driver), the fixed roll-over protection bars of previous generations have gone. Replacing them is a sophisticated pyrotechnic pop-up system that automatically deploys if needed.

When UK sales begin in March 2016, customers are initially going to have a choice of three versions. Their engines are, as expected, identical to those already found in the current Hatch range. Six-speed manual and automatic transmissions are being offered.

Cooper Convertible
UK OTR price (manual transmission) £18,475
UK OTR price (automatic transmission) £19,745
Engine 1,499 cc, three-cylinder, turbocharged petrol
Power 134 bhp (100 kW / 136 PS)
Torque 220 Nm (162 lb/ft)

Cooper D Convertible
UK OTR price (manual transmission) £20,225
UK OTR price (automatic transmission) £21,495
Engine 1,496 cc, three-cylinder, turbocharged diesel
Power 114 bhp (85 kW / 116 PS)
Torque 270 Nm (199 lb/ft)

Cooper S Convertible
UK OTR price (manual transmission) £22,430
UK OTR price (automatic transmission) £24,055
Engine 1,998 cc, four-cylinder, turbocharged petrol
Power 189 bhp (141 kW / 192 PS)
Torque 280 Nm (206 lb/ft)

All versions come with Bluetooth connectivity, rear parking sensors and a reversing camera as standard. Mini Connected smartphone integration is also part of the specification.

Naturally, the extensive options list is intended to tempt as many Mini Convertible buyers as possible. It includes a head-up display, satellite navigation, heated seats, a heated windscreen, full LED lights and dual-zone air conditioning.

Another innovation is the Driving Assistant package, which consists of camera-based cruise control and distance control, road sign recognition, high-beam assist, collision warning and an initial brake function.

Mini Cooper S Convertible (2016) TopMini Cooper S Convertible (2016) Rear

Mini Cooper S Convertible (2016) SideMini Cooper S Convertible (2016) Rear Side

Related posts:
The Mini Clubman just got a lot bigger
2015 Mini John Cooper Works Hatch revealed
Mini 5-door Hatch unveiled

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