Mini Convertible
When's it coming and what is it?
As the sun starts shining next summer, the first Mini soft-tops will start finding their way into dealers, spicing up the competition for the Peugeot 206CC and Mazda MX-5.
Why should I care?
At around £13,000 for the entry-level Mini One Convertible and £14,500 for a Mini Cooper Convertible, the soft-top Mini will offer stylish open-top motoring at an affordable price. The roof folds down out of sight, a big improvement over the pram-like designs that blighted the soft-top conversions of the old Mini. And the roof is electrically-powered to take the strain out of sun-worshipping on the road. In a nod to past Minis, the boot hinges downwards - a design change needed to make space for the roof.
What makes it really special?
The new Mini is established as one of the most chic motors money can buy. Throw in the added appeal of a soft-top and the Mini Convertible has to be one of next summer's hottest new models. And it should be great to drive, too, if its tin-top sibling is anything to judge by.