NEWS ARTICLE
MINI Cooper S Convertible
The new MINI Convertible could not have arrived at a better time as the legend celebrates 50 years. However in its latest guise the MINI is a far cry from the cars of 1959. With superb engines, dynamic packaging and outstanding performance, it is set to further challenge in the small convertible market, not only in the UK, but also in markets such as the US. For many the Cooper S will be the first choice, with its distinct power advantage; however in the short term the Cooper version will be the big seller. Next year a MINI One version arrives and it is expected to capture 26% of total sales.
STYLING
The new MINI Convertible does not sacrifice any of the unique aesthetics of MINI, with a raised shoulder line, highlighted by a chrome strip which extends around the body of the car, the new soft top has a more purposeful and dynamic stance than its predecessor. A low roofline, wheels positioned at each corner and short overhangs at both the front and rear denote its sporting intent. Specific design cues differentiate the Cooper and Cooper S models; both feature MINI’s trademark hexagon radiator grille and large round headlamps with integrated indicators. The S Convertible sets itself apart visually through the presence of an enhanced power dome, which sits 20 millimetres higher than the Cooper’s bonnet and houses a large air scoop. Another tell tale is at the rear end, large twin tailpipes, a large diffuser in the rear bumper and a two-piece rear fog lamp.
INTERIOR
The interior features an extensive rethink and design, the use of colours has always been a feature making the MINI Convertible a very individual car. One item we did notice on climbing aboard, the Openometer and it was a talking point on the press launch. This is a little bit tongue and cheek. It is offered as an option and it records the time spent by the owner driving with the top down, meaning passengers can measure their visual coolness inside, even if it’s cold outside. It is activated once the driver starts the engine and the roof is fully retracted. An analogue indicator moving on a scale from 0-60 then records in minutes the time spent driving with the top down. After one hour, the indicator moves back to its starting position and the data is logged by the on-board computer. The roof also features a sunroof which can be operated at relative high speed, while for the first time, the soft top can be raised and lowered at speeds less than 20mph and the operation takes a mere 20 seconds.
On the front passenger side of the cabin there is a large storage compartment underneath the instrument panel. Another pleasant touch, the door trim is shaped to complement the instrument panel with a wraparound look and adding further to the sporty look is a separate mounted rev counter.
PERFORMANCE
The heart of the matter re the Cooper S version is a four-cylinder petrol engine with Twin-Scroll turbocharger and direct fuel injection, allied to a standard six-speed manual transmission. With 175bhp at 5,500 rpm on tap and peak torque of 240Nm between 1,600 and 5,000rpm. Over boost system may be deployed when you firmly accelerate and as result, peak torque is extended from 240 to 260Nm. Should you desire a F1-style paddle shift automatic transmission is available as an option. With virtually no turbo lag, the sprint from rest to 62mph is under seven seconds and with its kart-like handling this little gem delivers maximum fun.
OWNERSHIP
Apart from being eye-catching and great fun to drive the MINI Cooper S is now more economical than ever, you can expect to get up to 10mpg more and the emission figure is down. Adding further to easing the spend, stop start and a gear shift indicator.
AT A GLANCE
| Name/Price: | MINI Cooper S Convertible/ £18,995 |
| Engine/power: | 1.6 litre 4 cylinder turbocharged petrol |
| Co2 emissions: | 153g/km |
| Official Combined fuel economy: | 44.1mpg |
IMN VERDICT
The latest MINI Cooper S Convertible is a significant step up with its improved power unit, neater styling and somehow the designers have managed to squeeze extra boot space; as much as 55 litres more.
For many it will be their ultimate fun car, yet with its improved economy it could be equally employed as an everyday form of transport.
Ian Lynas