Video (preview)

CONVERTIBLE ASSET (some text hidden) SECTIONED_new_miniconvertible_2016

By Jonathan Crouch

Introductionword count: 53

It's pretty hard to take exception to MINI's third generation F57-era Convertible model. Larger and slightly more practical than its predecessor, it was also more efficient and media-savvy. Best of all, the stiffer chassis makes it much better to drive than the previous R57 model. Let's check it out as a used buy.

Modelsword count: 14

2dr Convertible (1.2, 1.5, 2.0 petrol/ 1.5 diesel [Cooper, Cooper D, Cooper S, JCW])

Historyword count: 384

The Convertible is a key part of the MINI line-up. It's always offered just the right blend of retro charm, mixed in with the appeal of a good looking and fully retractable fabric roof that previously has rather restricted this car's day to day practicality. In 2016 with the third generation F57-era MINI Convertible range, the brand aimed to address that issue at the same time as developing this model's premium feel. So familiar are we with the idea of open-topped MINI motoring that it's almost a surprise to discover that this variant is primarily an invention of BMW, rather than the British motor industry. Yes, there were drop-top variants of the original Alec Issigonis design, but these were largely the work of specialist coachbuilders. Only in the final years of the early version did Rover commission a short production run of Mini Convertibles and even then, only 300 were sold. BMW had no such reticence when it came to the idea of a cabrio model and shortly after the new generation MINI model's launch at the turn of the century, the first proper Convertible version joined the range in 2004. This car, known as the 'R52' series model in MINI circles, proved hugely successful, quickly accounting for over 20% of all MINI sales, with over 164,000 examples sold over a production run that lasted until 2009. The 'R57' series MK2 design that replaced it was equally well received, stiffer, faster and more sophisticated than its predecessor, but by 2015, it was beginning to struggle against newer rivals like the DS3 Cabrio and Volkswagen's second generation Beetle Cabriolet. Hence the need for the MK3 model F57 generation MINI Convertible we're going to look at here. Like the previous two versions, it was based on its hatchback sister, which meant that it had to grow slightly in size - no bad thing given that need for greater rear seat and boot space. The electric fabric hood was more sophisticated too, as were the engines and the degree of media connectivity. And there were also some fashion-orientated options that might bring a smile to your face. There was a light update in 2021. And a limited-run all-electric version joined the range in 2023. This F57-era design was replaced by a fourth generation F67 model in 2024.

What You Getword count: 296

The look and feel many not be dramatically different with this third generation MINI Convertible, but it still carries a cute, compact and quite up-market demeanour, especially when optioned up. Get out the tape measure and you'll find that in MK3 F57 model form, the car is longer, wider and just fractionally taller than its predecessor, but the differences are subtle, as is the design execution of the electric fabric folding roof. Settle into the firm but supportive cushioning of the driver's seat and the first thing that might be apparent is how low you're sat in the car. If you've come to this third generation model from an older MINI Convertible, your next impression might well be to appreciate your more spacious surroundings. The extra length, width and height of this car really tells from this perspective in additional levels of head, leg and shoulder room that give this version has a much more grown-up feel than previous models could offer. When it's time to take a seat in the back, with the roof up, squeezing in isn't that easy.. and it's pretty claustrophobic once inside. With the roof down though, things are of course very different. Obviously it's easier to get in and once in place in the back, with the car in 'al fresco' guise, you can better start to appreciate the extra space that's offered by this MK3 model. The increase in body length didn't only increase rear passenger space: there was more luggage room too. The boot is around 25% bigger than it was with the previous R57-era model, but don't get your hopes up too much with regards to what's available. Whatever the hood positioning, you can free up extra carriage room by pushing forward the 50:50 split-folding rear backrests.

To see the full road test text contact us on 0330 0020 227