Convertible

WHY IT WINS

THE MINI Convertible brings everything that’s great about the MINI hatchback and packages it all into a stylish drop-top that puts fun right at the forefront of the driving experience. Plus this is one of the most affordable convertibles that you can buy, especially given its ability.

Although the Convertible is heavier than the hatch on which it’s based, this hasn’t affected its sharp handling. All MINIs have top driving dynamics, and this soft-top version is no exception, thanks to its lively chassis set-up and direct steering.

The ride comfort isn’t hurt too badly in the transition from Hatchback to Convertible, either. Although the soft-top has taut body control, it still provides a decent level of comfort as well.

The car also has a couple of small rear seats that might be useful for short trips, and the electric folding roof takes 18 seconds to lower at speeds of up to 19mph. That means you can drop the roof on the move when the sun comes out, while the climate-control system can even remember your settings with the roof up and down, so that you don’t need to fiddle with the temperature control. The infotainment can also tell you if there’s rain on its way, allowing you to get the roof up in time.

A facelift in 2018 gave customers a wider range of personalisation options, including 3D-printed panels for the dashboard and the front wings, as well as a bespoke option for the puddle lights to put your chosen message in the limelight. It’s these small but oh-so-important customisation touches that really make the MINI experience.

The excellent Cooper and Cooper S engines – 1.5 and 2.0-litre units respectively – are both superb choices. With 134bhp, the former offers plenty of punch and a fun soundtrack without any great sacrifice in fuel economy (MINI claims up to 45.6mpg and 121g/km CO2 emissions in manual form), while the latter is louder and more powerful, and that encourages you to indulge just that bit more in the car’s delightful handling.