MINI Cabrio In The Open

As well as showing the next phase in the MINI's life cycle, the new model features minor styling changes which BMW is planning for a facelifted version of the hatch later in the year. The first cabrios will arrive here in June, and bosses hope the new model will sustain the tin-top's staggering popularity.

Befitting a car that sells itself on a cool urban image, the MINI needed a cutting-edge roof, but designers have opted for a fabric hood rather than a folding hard-top. With no catches to be released, all the driver has to do is press a switch and watch the top slide back into a compartment above the boot. The rails disappear beneath the bodywork, leaving a totally open driving experience - all in 15 seconds (see yellow images).

Initially, two Convertible variants will be available - a 90bhp One capable of 39.2mpg and a sportier Cooper which should return 38.7mpg. With 0-62mph times of 11.8 and 9.8 seconds respectively, fans of high performance will have to wait until later in the year, when the hot Cooper S version arrives. So for now, the latest MINI isn't about going quickly, it's about being seen. No diesel is planned at present. With the hood up, the MINI's distinctive shape has been preserved, while a chrome strip along the waistline gives a quality look.

A deeper chrome front grille and redesigned rear lights are both features that will appear on the facelifted hatch, but the 16-inch alloys on this car will be specific to the drop-top. To help set it apart, the Cooper Convertible can be specified with a black, blue or green roof, as well as two exclusive body colours - Hot Orange or Cool Blue.

Classic Mini-style external boot hinges are also an interesting styling cue, giving access to the new MINI's unique luggage space. The bootlid is capable of supporting 80kg, and for larger loads the hood can be lifted at the rear, too, giving an opening which is just as large as a hatchback's.

With the roof folded, the cargo area is restricted to 120 litres - that's 40 less than the hatchback. However, fold down the seats with the roof up and this grows to an impressive 605 litres. The cabin will also get body-coloured trim inserts for the first time.

With the top down, two aluminium roll hoops are exposed, which form part of the rollover protection. Engineers have also worked hard on structural stability, both to improve safety and preserve the lively handling that has helped make the MINI a top-seller.

Prices have yet to be announced, but as the Convertible is to directly rival Peugeot's 206 CC, expect the range to start at around ΂£12,500. And there will be plenty of standard kit - a heated glass rear screen, four airbags and reverse parking sensors are all included.