MINI Convertible

MINI Convertible – Overview

The MINI Convertible is perhaps one of the rarest models in Malaysia, as MINI Malaysia itself only introduced the latest generation F57 from 2019 and then followed by the facelift from June 2021. MINI Malaysia currently offers a sole Cooper S variant of the F57 MINI Convertible range in Malaysia.

When it debuted in Malaysia in 2019, only 20 units were made available and then another 20 units were added via the limited edition Sidewalk Edition the following year. The MINI Convertible Cooper S started its pricing at RM 279,888 when first introduced, with the Sidewalk Edition some RM6,000 more even after enjoying the partial exemption of sales tax. 

Today, the facelifted MINI Convertible Cooper S retails from RM 267,160 for the standard warranty and raising to RM274,360 for the extended coverage. In Malaysia, where convertible models are nearly non-existent, the MINI Convertible has no direct competitors, with the closest being the Mazda MX-5 RF, Mercedes-Benz C-Class convertible and the BMW Z4. 

MINI Convertible – Exterior

The facelift design was introduced in 2021, featuring a new front design. The front grille now extends to the bottom edge of the new front bumper that replaces the fog lights with the integration of air curtains for improved aerodynamics. LED headlamps are standard, with circular DRLs. 

The side scuttle fender trim has been revised with LED indicators and over to the rear, the rear bumper has been redesigned to emphasise its width. There is also new 6-arm Pedal Spoke design alloy wheels in 17-inch diameter.
Key highlights on the MINI Convertible Cooper S are the bonnet stripes, a wind deflector as well as the softtop with MINI Yours Union Jack design. 

Classic Trim on the Convertible means Piano Black is applied to the side mirrors, headlamp surround rings, emblems, door handles, dual exhaust tips and the fuel cap cover. The softtop folds away electronically in just 18 seconds and can even perform the action while driving very slowly (does not need to be a complete standstill). A proper glass panel is used for the rear windscreen, ensuring long term durability and pleasing aesthetics. 

There is also an Always Open Timer for the deployment of the softtop. Five colours are available this time, unlike the earlier limited edition units. Zesty Yellow and Island Blue are new in conjunction with the facelift, joined by British Racing Green, Chili Red and White Silver. The MINI Yours softtop only comes in black regardless of body colour. 

MINI Convertible – Interior

Dashboard

The MINI Convertible shares the same dashboard design as the hatchback. It is a simple layout that is seen in all other F-generation MINIs- a central infotainment screen is housed in a circular frame and a compact floating instrument cluster that is fitted on the steering column. The dashboard is lined with Silver Surface Chequered and multi-coloured ambient lighting that extends to the door panels.

Unique-to-MINI toggle switches are maintained too, with the controls for an engine start-stop switch, idle start/stop, DSC control as well as Sport or Green driving modes. In the facelift design, a new steering wheel is introduced too, now with a more modern looking piano black bezel on the spokes and large shift paddles.

Instrument cluster

Gone is the old circular instrument cluster that was too focused on the retro design. New for the facelift MINI Convertible Cooper S is the tablet-like digital instrument cluster with a 5-inch high-resolution multi-info display screen.

Space and practicality

The front armrest has an integrated storage compartment and generously sized door pockets. There is a pair of cupholders ahead of the shift lever. The rear seats feature a 50-50 split and with the seats up, there are 215 litres of cargo space, reducing to 160 litres when the softtop is folded down. Although highly impractical, the MINI Convertible still oozes style thanks to its classic looks as well as a neat folding softtop. 

MINI Convertible – Features

Safety features

There are four airbags in the MINI Convertible Cooper S and with advanced driving assistance systems being the lane-departure warning function and autonomous emergency braking system. A rear-view camera is also included as rearward visibility is rather hindered by the design of the base of the softtop.

With the softtop folded down, MINI also designed the interior to look stylish, with many surfaces covering the folding mechanism having a nice trim piece. The pop-up roll-over bars are neatly hidden behind the rear quarter section of the vehicle.

Comfort features

In the MINI Convertible Cooper S, combination leather seats/leatherette in carbon black are fitted and the front seats are sports design units. Standard interior features are automatic air-conditioning system, Comfort Access, Nappa leather-wrapped steering wheel and wireless smartphone charging tray.

Infotainment

The MINI Convertible Cooper S feature a new 8.8-inch central touchscreen display in widescreen landscape format. Apple CarPlay connectivity is standard together with MINI Connected Services, MINI Navigation System, Intelligent Emergency Call and Teleservices. Wired Package is also included. 

MINI Convertible – Powertrain

Engine

The MINI Convertible Cooper S is powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder engine delivering 192 PS at 5,000-5,500 rpm and 280 Nm from 1,350-4,600 rpm. It is the same unit as found in other MINI body styles plus the BMW X1 sDrive20i M Sport variant.

Transmission

Chassis

The MINI Convertible Coopers S is fitted with normal shock absorbers and 17-inch wheels with run-flat tyres. Similar to BMW compacts, MINI has also included the Performance Control electronic assist that performs engine control and brake interventions for more agile driving while cornering. The MINI Convertible Cooper S continues to feature an Electronic Differential Lock Control (EDLC) to minimise understeer plus Automatic Stability Control+Traction (ASC+T) system.

Drivetrain

MINI Convertible – Driving Performance

Engine performance

The MINI Convertible Cooper S with 192 PS / 280 Nm completes the 0 to 100 km/h sprint in 7.1 seconds. Acceleration feels responsive in every gear and never felt lethargic. While the numbers aren’t high, it feels most refined compared to units from Mercedes-Benz and Audi/VW. Top speed is 230 km/h.

Transmission performance

The 7-speed dual-clutch transmission shifts very well but not the fastest, a quality that Volkswagen still holds the title to. Nonetheless, the transmission is clever to select the right gear, hold the gear as well as downshift quickly according to the driver’s input.

The exhaust also makes sound sporty “pops” and “crackles” at gear upshifts and downshifts to entertain the occupants and further emphasise the spirit of the Cooper S.

Steering and handling

The MINI Convertible model continues to offer driving joy with accurate steering, minimal body roll and assuring confidence at the driver’s seat. With the roof left folded down, the chassis still feels solid through winding bends as well as over uneven roads.  

MINI Convertible – Ride Comfort

Soundproofing

Sound insulation is a major step up compared to the predecessor MINI models. It is quiet while on the highway as well as low intrusion of noise on urban and rough roads. With the softtop folded down, the windows can still be fully retracted to ensure a more audible conversation.

Passenger comfort

Rear passengers will definitely feel more comfortable in the back seat thanks to the elimination of the pillars. Even with the softtop up, the quarter glass provides decent levels of light into the rear passenger section.  

MINI Convertible – Fuel Economy

The MINI Convertible Cooper S is rated at 6.3 litres per 100 km (15.8 km/L).

MINI Convertible – Conclusion

The F57 MINI Convertible Cooper S is the most iconic design of all MINI models. With such a compact dimension, it also wears the softtop look very well. Being already not a very practical vehicle, what a better way to enjoy the full range of an iconic hatchback with the electrically folding softtop.

Straight-line performance has not suffered, as well as handling and body control are still benchmark levels. You, your partner and two friends will also enjoy open-top motoring without too much discomfort as the entry, exit and overall space now feel better thanks to the removal of the pillars.