The 2009 MINI line will complete its generational changeover in January when the new incarnation Convertible makes its appearance at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. This slick little drop top benefits from the same comprehensive mechanical and engineering upgrades that its Cooper/Cooper S hatchback mates received as part of their 2007 model-year revamps, enhancements that were subsequently incorporated into the new-for 2008 Clubman wagonette model. At Cooper level, this petite cabrio packs a 118-horsepower/1.6-liter naturally aspirated engine, while the Cooper S variant comes with a 172-horse turbocharged version. Both can be paired with either the standard six-speed manual transmission or an optional six-speed autoshifter. Like hard-shell MINI's, the Convertible also gets standard Dynamic Stability Control and anti-lock brakes with cornering brake control and electronic brake-force distribution.
Centerpiece of this sporty sunchaser is its new and improved power top. Electro-hydraulically actuated, it can be raised or lowered in just 15 seconds at speeds of up to 20 mph. The design also incorporates larger side windows and a new single-piece pop-up rollover protection bar behind the rear headrests to provide the driver with better outward sightlines. In al fresco mode, the MINI Convertible's top stack remains visible, but well compacted. It folds in a manner that removes excess moisture, prevents potential "wear points" and also lets it serve as an integrated tonneau cover. One other neat feature is that the front section of the top can be opened by up to 16 inches, creating a de facto soft sunroof mode that can be used at speeds up to 75 mph. As a final flourish, the MINI Convertible's roster of standards includes an "Openometer" that keeps track of the time spent with the top down.
The new MINI Convertible goes on sale here at the end of March, but orders are already being taken. Base price for a Cooper version starts at $24,550 while the Cooper S opens at $27,450.