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This MINI Cooper has been a bad girl. That's because it's been running around without its top on. Shame, shame, shame.

While I have been a fan of MINI's products since the company launched the all-new Cooper, there's nothing quite as satisfactory as piloting one of its Cooper Convertibles. Not only because it handles like its on rails, but also due to the fact when you put the top down you get that special experience.

MINI Cooper Convertible

I'll never forget the Cooper S I had equipped with the John Cooper Works (JCW) exhaust. Can you say "pops and bangs?"

What a fun little thing.

Reprising itself is the all-new Cooper Convertible. Predictably so, everything you can get on the hardtop you'll be able to have with the rag-top variant.

For now there's no word on price but expect it to make an auto show appearance in the near future before it goes on sale come March 2016. Pricing is set to be announced in January.


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MINI's press release follows:


OPEN DRIVING EXCITEMENT: INTRODUCING THE NEW MINI CONVERTIBLE


Open Driving Excitement: Introducing the New MINI Convertible

Newest member of MINI lineup goes on sale in U.S. in March 2016

First open top MINI powered by BMW Group engine technology and architecture


Woodcliff Lake, NJ – MINI USA introduced today the newest addition to its iconic product line, the new MINI Convertible. As the first open top MINI powered by BMW Group engines and architecture, the new MINI Convertible is a premium four-seater soft-top convertible that is both practical and customizable for unlimited open-air motoring fun.

Like all other MINI models in the product portfolio, the new MINI Convertible is made for individualization, setting the new standard in the premium convertible market. It offers a choice of 11 exterior color options, including the new Caribbean Aqua, which harkens back to the classic MINI color palette, ideal for the fun-loving enthusiast, and Melting Silver, recently introduced on the new MINI Clubman, a cool and modern finish perfect for the open air thrill seeker.

The customization carries over to the interior with a number of premium seating options available, including a new Malt Brown leather with diamond-stitching reminiscent of classic English Chesterfield sofas. Convertible enthusiasts looking for even more style can opt for the new MINI Yours soft-top featuring an embroidered Union Jack with herringbone patterned detailing.

"The new MINI Convertible has a great balance of playful personalization and sophistication. It's open-top driving without compromise," said David Duncan, vice president MINI of the Americas. "The bespoke levels of customization set it apart from other convertibles on the market, while the front wheel drive BMW architecture and engines make it fun-to-drive and practical in any driving conditions."

Powered by BMW Group-developed three- and four-cylinder MINI TwinPower Turbo Technology engines, the new MINI Convertible will come standard with an efficient six-speed manual transmission. With the three-cylinder Cooper version and four-cylinder Cooper S, the new MINI Convertible presents customers a choice of two powerful, highly efficient TwinPower Turbo engines developed by the BMW Group and built in Europe. In keeping with MINI tradition for authentic, driver-involving motoring, both the Cooper Convertible and Cooper S Convertible come standard with a 6-speed manual transmission. Alternatively, the new MINI Convertible can be equipped with a smooth, quick-shifting 6-speed Steptronic automatic transmission.

This premium four-seater convertible has an emphasis on practicality, with an easy-load and load-through function that makes the cargo space both accessible and functional. The rigid frame and invisible roll bar enhance both the safety of the vehicle and also provide improved acoustics, allowing for more long-distance comfort and sporty driving dynamics. Drivers will also appreciate the unique multi-way top settings, including a sunroof option which enables the soft-top to open midway for just the right amount of sun and air.

The new MINI Convertible is equipped with an "Always Open Timer," providing convertible enthusiasts with the ability to calculate the number of hours they've driven with the top down. It will also come standard with the MINI Connected infotainment system including a 6.5-inch high-resolution screen. In addition, an optional larger 8.8-inch display includes naviation and a clever rain warning app, which notifies drivers of impending storms so they can prepare their vehicle for inclement weather.

The new MINI Convertible, available in both Cooper and Cooper S variants, will go on sale in March 2016 at MINI dealers across the U.S. Pricing will be announced in January.




OFFICIAL: MINI Drops The Info On Its More Provocative, All-New Cooper Convertible — So, Are You Gonna Go TOPLESS?

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