Mini Cooper S Convertible: Pure Driving Joy

Not surprisingly, the best way to enjoy a Mini is with a petrol engine under the hood. And for maximum fun, push the button on the rearview mirror and let the sun in – because nothing beats the convertible experience.

Convertibles Are Rare, But Not at Mini

While many automakers have phased out their convertibles, especially in smaller car segments, Mini is keeping the top-down spirit alive. The latest generation comes with an electric soft top, and it’s a delight. Few cars can match the good vibes of the Mini Cooper S Convertible, a car that hasn’t lost its charm over the years. Sure, there’s room for debate about some of the interior materials, and it’s puzzling why the once-popular leather seats have been replaced with synthetic options that lack the premium feel and look of the old Chili trims.

Textile-covered dashboards, door panels, and other accents are divisive in their appeal, especially in a segment that demands a higher level of refinement. But none of that detracts from the sheer joy this open Mini delivers, especially in the sporty Cooper S variant. Unlike its electric siblings, there’s no concern about slow charging times or limited top speeds. Instead, the turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine offers true driving pleasure.

Performance That Impresses

With 150 kW (204 PS) and 300 Nm of torque, the Cooper S Convertible is eager to please. Acceleration is brisk, and the precise steering invites enthusiastic driving. Floor the accelerator, and the car hits 100 km/h in 6.9 seconds, with a top speed of 237 km/h – impressive for a compact convertible. Fuel consumption is reasonable for its performance, rated at 6.5 liters of petrol per 100 kilometers.

For those who don’t need the full power of the Cooper S, the 120 kW (163 PS) base Cooper Convertible is a perfectly adequate alternative. It’s only slightly slower, with a top speed of 220 km/h and comes at a more accessible price point.

Not Just About Speed

But you don’t have to speed to enjoy the Mini Cooper S Convertible. Priced from €35,650, this drop-top delivers fun whether you’re cruising along the coast or navigating city streets. The stiff chassis, responsive steering, and refined suspension handle everything from smooth highways to bumpy urban roads with ease. Improved noise insulation also ensures a more comfortable ride.

When temperatures drop, the wind deflector behind the front seats comes in handy, or you can partially open the electric soft top in its sunroof configuration. With the roof closed, ambient lighting and unique projections on the dashboard add a modern, playful touch to the cabin.

Inside: Style Meets Quirks

The large 24-centimeter circular display on the dashboard, with its sharp graphics, is a Mini hallmark. However, the pop-up plastic head-up display feels less premium and remains an odd choice in this otherwise stylish car.

Rear seating is best left for small bags or jackets rather than people; the space is tight, and the 160 to 215 liters of trunk capacity isn’t particularly generous. Loading and unloading can also be tricky. But for a car that’s more about fun than practicality, these are minor compromises.

Verdict

The Mini Cooper S Convertible embodies what the brand does best: delivering driving fun with a side of charm. Sure, it has its quirks, but the overall package is hard to resist. From its snappy performance to its open-air thrills, this Mini is a guaranteed mood booster for anyone who gets behind the wheel.