Mini is encouraging car enthusiasts to embrace the open-top experience with its new line of Cooper and Cooper S Convertibles.
The automaker unveiled the two new models on Tuesday and highlighted multiple features. Chief among them is the folding convertible roof that opens in 18 seconds. This allows the driver and passengers to enjoy the country air, the city ambiance, or the coastal breeze.
The foldable roof can open like a traditional convertible at the touch of a button as it stows in the luggage compartment. It can open at speeds up to 18.6 mph.
The soft top can also open like a sunroof while sliding behind the rear seats. It opens up to 15.7 inches.
As a testament to this Always Open mantra, Mini brought back a unique feature. The Always Open Timer makes its return to the center-mounted OLED screen so owners can see exactly how long they enjoyed the elements.
Mini says the OLED technology makes this 9.45-inch screen easy to read even in direct sunlight.
The convertible Cooper underwent a redesign for the upcoming launch. The signature round headlights return, but they sit on either side of the redesigned grille.
The Classic Trim features black surrounding this redesigned grille. The Favoured Trim has silver surrounding it.
The rear of the Mini features a unique way to access the trunk. There isn’t a boot lid that raises up. Instead, the door drops down like a pickup so owners can slide luggage into the storage area.
The Mini Cooper Convertible has three engine options
Like other Mini Cooper models, one goal of the convertible is to provide a “go-kart feel.” Mini aims to do so with its turbocharged engines.
The base Cooper Convertible boasts 162 horsepower and 184.4 lb.-ft. of torque. Mini says this model can go from zero to 60 mph in 7.9 seconds and that its top speed is 137 mph.
The sportier S model boosts these numbers to 204 horsepower and 221 lb.-ft. or torque. Mini says the Cooper S Convertible can go from zero to 60 mph in 6.7 seconds and that its top speed is 150 mph.
The third engine option will reside in the JCW (John Cooper Works) Convertible. Mini has not provided any details about this model yet.
According to Car and Driver, neither of the two main Cooper Convertible models will have a manual transmission option. They will both have a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
“We are very proud to be able to offer our customers a true convertible in the current MINI family,” said Stefan Richmann, head of the Mini brand, in a statement.
“Our new MINI Cooper and Cooper S Convertible offers unmistakable, hallmark driving fun, coupled with boundless freedom and great emotions: Always Open. Iconic design combined with modern technology and connectivity make this vehicle an unrivaled experience for our customers.”
The base Mini Cooper Convertible will have an MSRP of $33,950, plus $995 for destination and handling. The Mini Cooper S Convertible will have a base MSRP of $37,200 plus $995 for destination and handling. Both models will arrive at United States dealers in January 2025.
Mini will provide more details and pricing about the John Cooper Works Convertible at a later date.