Mini Cooper S Convertible: Four Seasons of Fun

In an era where convertibles are vanishing faster than summer rainstorms, Mini defiantly keeps the drop-top dream alive – though not electrified. The new Cooper S Convertible proves open-air motoring still has soul, even if its spark remains strictly combustion-powered.

Top Down, Year-Round

Two years after teasing an electric Mini convertible (quickly snapped up by enthusiasts), BMW’s cheeky Brit brand shelved EV plans amid lukewarm demand. The result? A petrol-powered Cooper S Convertible that’s all about analog joy.

The fabric roof retracts in 18 seconds (even at speeds up to 30 km/h), offering partial sunroof vibes or full wind-in-hair freedom. Heated seats and steering wheel turn crisp autumn drives into cozy adventures – no wind deflector required.

Turbocharged Joy in the Mini Cooper S Convertible

Under the hood lies a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder pumping out 204 HP and 300 Nm torque. Paired with a slick 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox, it rockets to 100 km/h in 6.9 seconds and tops out at 237 km/h.

The steering? Razor-sharp. The exhaust note? Just rowdy enough to remind you this isn’t some sanitized EV. Fuel economy (6.9L/100km) stings, but smiles-per-gallon compensate.

Design Quirks & Compromises

Mini’s cabin charms with retro-modern flair, though cost-cutting peeks through: synthetic “textile” dashboard panels and a plastic pop-up HUD feel at odds with its premium aspirations.

Rear seats? Officially for four, realistically for two adults plus weekend bags (160-215L trunk expands via folded seats). Noise insulation improves over predecessors, but expect conversations to rise in volume above 130 km/h.

Electrifying Disappointment

At 1,465 kg, the Cooper S Convertible isn’t light – blame stiffer chassis tech and modern comforts. Yet it’s still 300+ kg lighter than a hypothetical electric variant, which Mini quietly admits remains a pipe dream. For now, purists get a nimble, tossable roadster that clings to combustion charm.

Verdict: A guilty pleasure in an age of austerity, the Cooper S Convertible blends retro whimsy with modern pep. It’s impractical, thirsty, and utterly irresistible – a reminder that driving joy needn’t always be “sensible.”