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Mini Convertible latest
By
Stephen Dobie
25 January 2008 11:50
The new Mini cabriolet isn’t due until 2009, but CAR has spotted it out on test again – and this time the disguise is much thinner.
It’s not exactly a surprise new model, but Mini has still remained keen to shroud the drop-top's development in secrecy. With the cladding at a minimum, apart from some disguise at the rear, the Mini Convertible looks better resolved than the current car.
The new model is slightly longer, neatly hiding the higher, more pedestrian-friendly front end. That length means the cabin will be a bit less cramped, too. The defining test, though, will be when the roof is dropped. The folded pram-style hood on the Mk1 model is something other cars just wouldn’t get away with – although this hasn’t exactly dented the sales figures (this was the second-best selling soft-top in the UK in 2007). Although simplified, the new hood doesn't look much different from today's car.
The current cabriolet has only been with us since 2004, but is based on BMW’s first Mini – making the mechanicals seven-year-old. The new model will bring the open version in line with the updated hatchback range that’s been with us over a year.
Click 'Next' to read the mechanical lowdown on the new Mini cab
