MINI Convertible (09 on) - Review

Review by David Ross on
Last Updated: 12 June 2009
With its retro-inspired styling and funky image, the MINI Convertible has proved a real hit. The second generation model follows in the same footsteps but with some key improvements. It may look very similar, but in fact it is totally new with a stiffer body for better refinement with the roof down. MINI has also changed the rollover hoops which used to block rear visibility, making the model much more driver-friendly, especially when parking. As with any MINI it is great fun to drive while the engines offer a strong combination of performance and economy. Practicality isn't a strong point and the rear seats are pretty much useless, but few small convertibles can match the sheer desirability and style of the MINI.
4 out of 5

Other MINI reviews

4 out of 5

Running costs

The soft-top MINI isn't particularly cheap as a new buy, but it's competitively priced alongside other small convertibles. It has reasonable running costs with the Cooper averaging 50mpg while insurance is group nine. MINI also offers an unbeatable servicing package called tlc. For a one off payment of just £185, owners are covered for five years (or 50,000 miles) of servicing. This can be extended at any time for a further three years (for an extra £370) by opting for the tlc XL package. Best of all, it's transferrable to subsequent owners, so gives great peace of mind if you're buying second hand.

* based on most recent data

Estimated fuel cost for 10,000 miles per year

Unleaded

£1,252 - £1,615 *

Diesel

£916 - £1,233 *

The estimated fuel cost figure is a guide to how much this model will cost to fuel each year, so you can compare between cars. It's calculated by using the model's average mpg (calculated from both town centre and motorway driving) and the average fuel price. It's based on the following cost-per-litre: petrol 135p and diesel 141p. Prices are updated daily.

Summary Running Costs

Servicing period

Variable according to on board computer.

Warranty

Three year/unlimited miles.

Road tax (12 months)

£20.00 - £195.00

Vehicle excise duty (VED) varies according to the CO2 emissions and the fuel type of the vehicle. For cars registered after March 1st 2001 VED or road tax is based on the car's CO2 emissions. For cars registered before March 1st 2001 it is based on engine size.

Full running costs data

4 out of 5

Green credentials

  • A
  • B
    105
  • C
  • D
  • E
  • F
  • G
  • H
    170
  • I
  • J
  • K
  • L
  • M

CO2 emission figure (g/km)

Fuel economy rating

The arrows indicate the best and worst CO2 bands for this model.

Emissions summary

As part of BMW, MINI uses the same Efficient Dynamics technology to save fuel and lower emissions. It's rebranded as MINIMALISM, but is basically the same with features such as an auto start/stop function - which cuts the engine in stationary traffic and automatically restarts it when needed - and a system that uses the energy from braking to charge the battery. As a result the Cooper averages 50mpg and emits 137g/km of CO2. Meanwhile the Cooper S is capable of 44mpg and has a CO2 output of 153g/km - very impressive considering it offers 175bhp.

Find the exact engine and CO2