MINI

MINI cabrio hits the road

Our spies snapped the new MINI Convertible being put through its paces

Auto Express Car Reviews

By Ross Pinnock

15th December 2006

They caught this Cooper S soft-top on a shakedown test - and despite the bright sunshine, its hood stayed firmly shut. The sporty four-seater is pure MINI to the A-pillar, but then it's all change!

However, as with the outgoing car, the newcomer has large fabric-covered C-pillars, which are sure to affect rearward visibility from the driver's seat.

Learners are unable to take their driving test in the current MINI Convertible after examiners complained about the poor view out it offered, and the situation doesn't look set to change with the arrival of its replacement.

Other features familiar to owners of the current model include the exposed door hinges on the vertical tailgate, which can clearly be seen beneath the subtle disguise. The brand is also expected to retain the clever function that allows owners to open the forward section of the hood like a giant sunroof. While the new fixed roof MINI hit forecourts last month, the Convertible has only been on sale since 2004, so buyers could face a wait before the fresh drop-top arrives.

When the cabriolet does appear in 2008, expect it to replicate the standard line-up with a choice of One, Cooper and Cooper S trims. The Convertible is likely to command a £1,500 premium.