New MINI Cooper Convertible Launched

MINI has completed its line-up of body styles for the F6X generation today with the launch of the Convertible. Powered exclusively by petrol engines, the Convertible is to be built at MINI’s Oxford plant and will begin production in late 2024.

The Convertible will come in two distinct flavours. The Cooper C offers 163bhp courtesy of a 1.5-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine, with a 0–62 time of 8.2 seconds and a top speed of 137mph. The Cooper S, meanwhile, is fitted with the turbocharged B48 inline-four, producing 204bhp. Performance of the S is brisk, with 62mph dispensed with in 6.9 seconds and a coiffure-ruffling top speed of 150mph. An even more potent JCW model is set to follow – the hatchback version of which is being unveiled at next week’s Paris Motor Show.

MINI hasn’t quoted any weight figures for the new Convertible, but as the car is based on the carried-over F5X platform, we can anticipate a kerb weight in the region of 1,340kg – a 60kg penalty over the hatch. To maintain the MINI’s trademark dart-y handling, highly preloaded anti-roll bar mounts have been anchored on the axles, increasing steering precision without sacrificing ride comfort. 18in alloy wheels are also standard on both models.

In terms of styling, the Convertible adopts the “charismatic simplicity” philosophy of the hatch, with a more streamlined look compared to previous models, but one that is still instantly recognisable as a MINI. The classic round headlights and wheel-at-each-corner proportions remain, but new features like a redesigned grille and optional circular LED headlights bring the design in line with the EV MINI. With a length of 3,879mm and a width of 1,744mm, MINI has done a respectable job of keeping the car’s dimensions compact – taking into consideration modern safety legislation.

Naturally, the canvas roof can be emblazoned with a Union Jack motif. The fully automatic soft top can be raised or lowered in 18 seconds, at speeds up to 19mph. The MINI Convertible also provides a halfway option, allowing the roof to be opened by 40cm to function as a sunroof, adding a touch of flexibility. As before, the MINI Convertible has room for four occupants, although at just 215 litres, boot space is at a premium – as expected in a car that prioritises style over practicality.

The interior hosts the biggest change, with its upcycled materials and upholstery. Just like the hatch, the giant 9.5-inch OLED central display dominates, providing access to navigation, media, and climate controls through a combination of touch and voice commands. The car’s toggle switch bar – a nod to classic MINI interiors – remains for essential functions like the start/stop button and volume control.

MINI has also integrated seven "Experience Modes," which change the interior ambience through light patterns and colours projected onto the dashboard. Though this may seem like a gimmick to purists, it does add a layer of personalisation for those who enjoy tailoring their car to their tastes.

The list price of the base (aka ‘Classic’ in MINI parlance) Cooper C is £27,050, with the Cooper S commanding £31,450. Like the hatch, two additional trim levels will be offered – Exclusive and Sport. Exclusive concentrates on additional refinement and equipment, adding £2,200 to the bill. Sport, meanwhile, transforms the look of the Convertible with a John Cooper Works bodykit, upgraded alloys, and grants access to the Sport Automatic transmission, which comes with shift paddles. Costing £3,500, the Sport variant also lifts the interior with upgraded trim and upholstery.

Whilst undoubtedly a niche product, the MINI Convertible still offers a unique driving experience with fresh air at your fingertips. UK deliveries are set to commence in early 2025, and if you’re interested in the MINI Convertible, the configurator is live now.