It’s been a bit of a ‘Mini-Fest’ this week, what with the Mini E in Berlin and the news that the Mini is the least depreciating car in the UK. And now we have the first official images of the new Mini Convertible, due to hit showrooms in Spring 2009.
Based of course on the latest Mini, the convertible keeps the familiar face, but has a raised shoulder line to accommodate the soft-top. Available initially in Cooper guise only – both standard Cooper and the S – the Mini Convertible will be a big seller. Add to that the likely addition of a diesel model later on (the Mini diesel is the slowest depreciating car in the UK) and you have a very desirable car.
2009 Mini Convertible
BMW has added its ‘Efficient Dynamics’ technology to the car, with stuff like brake energy regeneration and stop-start technology, which allows the Mini Convertible to drop two road tax bands over the old car. Good stuff. And even though the car is stiffer than before, it still comes in a smidge lighter.
The soft-top has got clever as well. Just 15 seconds to lower, it can also be partially opened to create a sun-roof effect. And a nice little toy even allows you to record the amount of time you’ve driven with the top down. At least you’ll know if you’re getting the use you expected out of the soft-top.
Prices start at a shade under £16k for the Cooper, rising to a shade under £19k for the Cooper S. Not exactly bargain basement, but you won’t lose your shirt on it either.
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