New MINI Convertible unleashed

We may be heading into the depths of winter, but MINI hopes to brighten things up by releasing the first details of its new Convertible model, available in eye-catching new colours.

Initially, the new MINI Convertible will be available in Cooper and Cooper S guises, sharing styling details with the hatchback.

The most obvious differentiator between the two models is the Cooper S's sportier honeycomb grille, bonnet-mounted air scoop and centrally positioned dual exhausts.

All variants of the Convertible will receive a new chrome strip that runs around the base of the glasshouse and a new one-piece chromed roll bar that sits behind the rear head rests.

Unlike the previous model, the new roll bar does not impede the driver's rear view, and the rear passengers also now have the option to adjust their head rests.

The new soft-top raises or lowers in just 15 seconds, an operation that can be carried out safely up to a speed of 20mph in traffic.

MINI has also incorporated a sunroof-like feature in the hood, where the front section slides back 40-centimetres.

In comparison to its best-selling predecessor, the new Convertible offers more boot space and air conditioning will be standard on all models.

One optional extra that caught our eye is the new 'Openometer', which records in hours the amount of time the owner has had the top down. This fits into the rev counter and will cost about £115.

When the MINI Convertible goes on sale in the UK on March 28th, prices for the Cooper will start at £15,995, with the higher-powered Cooper S retailing for £18,995.

Shane O' Donoghue