MINI Cooper Convertible

Model Overview

The MINI Cooper Convertible is MINI's iconic two-door, four-seater soft-top drop-top, standing as one of the most definitive models in the global compact convertible segment. The lineage of the open-top MINI dates back to 2004, when the first-generation convertible of the modern BMW era made its debut. Produced at the Oxford plant until 2008, it achieved a cumulative production volume of 160,000 units. In 2024, the fourth-generation MINI Cooper Convertible (chassis code F67) was officially unveiled. As of June 2026, the 2026 MINI Cooper Convertible is available in the US market across three powertrain variants: Cooper, Cooper S, and JCW, with prices ranging from USD 34,600 to USD 44,600. In China, the 2025 MINI Cooper Cabrio was launched at the Shanghai Auto Show in April 2025, priced from RM309,800 for the Cooper Cabrio and RM349,800 for the JCW Cabrio. As one of the few non-luxury, ICE-powered convertibles still being actively updated, the MINI Cooper Convertible holds a truly unique appeal in today's electric era.

Design Language

The fourth-generation MINI Cooper Convertible carries forward MINI's latest "Charismatic Simplicity" design philosophy. Up front, it features the brand's signature circular LED headlights alongside a large octagonal radiator grille. The primary exterior distinction between the convertible and the hardtop lies at the rear, where it retains the upright rectangular tail lamp clusters from the previous generation, distinguishing it from the hardtop's triangular light units. In terms of dimensions, it measures 3,879 mm in length, 1,744 mm in width, and 1,431 mm in height, riding on a 2,495 mm wheelbase. The electrically operated soft-top roof can be opened or closed in just 18 seconds at driving speeds of up to 30 km/h (around 19 mph). The fabric soft top comes finished in classic black as standard, with an optional bespoke roof featuring a woven Union Jack graphic. Inside, the cabin embraces a minimalist aesthetic, anchored by a 240 mm (9.45-inch) diameter circular OLED central infotainment display. The conventional instrument cluster has been deleted, replaced by a Head-Up Display (HUD) system that projects key driving data. Knitted textile trims generously wrap the dashboard and door cards, delivering a warm and premium interior ambience.

Powertrain and Performance

The entire 2026 MINI Cooper Convertible range is powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-four petrol engine mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT). The powertrain is offered in three states of tune: the standard Cooper delivers 161 hp and 250 Nm of torque (184 lb-ft); the Cooper S puts out 201 hp and 300 Nm (221 lb-ft); while the flagship JCW pumps out 228 hp. In terms of acceleration, the Cooper S completes the 0-60 mph (approx. 96 km/h) sprint in around 6.7 seconds, whereas the JCW achieves 0-100 km/h in 6.4 seconds. On the fuel economy front, EPA combined fuel consumption is rated at approximately 30 mpg (around 7.8 L/100 km), while the WLTP combined figure stands at 6.9 L/100 km. Fuel tank capacity is rated at 44 litres.

Chassis and Handling

Chassis dynamics remain the cornerstone of the MINI Cooper Convertible's signature go-kart driving fun. Built on a front-engine, front-wheel-drive (FWD) layout, the suspension setup comprises front MacPherson struts and a rear multi-link independent setup. For the first time, this generation offers an optional Dynamic Damper Control system with electronically adaptive dampers, providing two distinct damping maps that adjust road response towards either ride comfort or sportiness depending on the selected drive mode. The chassis has undergone a comprehensive overhaul—featuring a slightly wider front track, a quicker steering rack ratio, and revised suspension tuning for sharper handling dynamics. In "Go-Kart Mode", steering response is razor-sharp and intuitive, delivering an engaging driving experience. Torsional rigidity has been noticeably enhanced over its predecessor, resulting in a planted chassis with precise steering and clear road feedback. Braking is handled by four-wheel disc brakes. The turning circle measures 36.4 feet (around 11.1 metres).

Cabin and Features

The MINI Cooper Convertible adopts a 2+2 four-seater configuration. The rear quarters are relatively compact, best suited for short journeys or children. Boot capacity is inevitably compromised by the folding roof mechanism—measuring 160 litres under standard conditions, expandable to 215 litres with the rear seats folded down. Regarding cabin equipment, a 9.45-inch circular OLED central touchscreen running MINI Operating System 9 comes standard across the range. The infotainment system supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Creature comforts include heated front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, and keyless entry with push-start button. For audio, higher-spec variants can be optioned with a premium Harman Kardon surround sound system. Notably, the new model brings back MINI convertibles' iconic "Always Open Timer", which tracks cumulative top-down driving time via the central display—adding a playful, bespoke touch.

Safety and Driver Assistance

On the safety front, the MINI Cooper Convertible shares its underlying crash structure with the 3-Door hardtop, which achieved a full five-star Euro NCAP safety rating (scoring 83% for adult occupant protection and 82% for child occupant protection), bolstered by tailored structural reinforcements for the open-top body. In terms of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), Level 2 semi-autonomous driving features come standard. Key functions include Full-Speed Adaptive Cruise Control (with Stop & Go), Autonomous Emergency Braking (including Forward Collision Warning), Lane Keeping Assist, Blind Spot Monitoring, and Automated Parking Assist. A 360-degree surround-view camera system is also fitted. Sensor hardware comprises multiple exterior cameras and ultrasonic parking sensors.

Market Performance and Reviews

The MINI Cooper Convertible continues to demonstrate solid sales momentum worldwide. In 2025, global deliveries of the MINI Convertible hit 22,491 units, charting an 18.4% year-on-year increase. This growth proves that the open-top niche retains strong appeal even amidst the EV transition. As one of the few remaining non-luxury ICE convertibles, it practically stands without direct competition—the Mazda MX-5 is strictly a two-seater roadster while the Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet has long been discontinued, giving MINI a unique monopoly in the compact four-seater cabriolet segment. In China, tagged from RM309,800, the MINI Cooper Cabrio remains one of the very few fully imported open-top offerings available below RM350,000. In professional reviews, Car and Driver awarded the 2026 MINI Cooper an overall score of 7.5/10, praising its "hardtop or convertible body styles available, agile handling, and extensive customisation options", while noting that "the infotainment system operation is somewhat cumbersome, the ride is stiff over bumps, and rear-seat and cargo space are tight". From its 2004 debut to this fourth-generation model in 2026, the MINI Cooper Convertible has carved out a unique legacy spanning more than two decades. In an increasingly electrified automotive landscape, this petrol-powered drop-top MINI stands not only as a pure celebration of driving thrills, but also as one of the definitive final icons of the internal combustion convertible era.