Expanding its Indian lineup, MINI has launched the new generation Cooper Convertible in the country priced at Rs. 34.9 lakh (ex-showroom). The convertible joins the three-door and five-door models already on sale in India and is in effect, the topless derivative of the three-door version. The MINI Cooper Convertible is also being brought via the CBU (Completely Built Unit) route in India, thus keeping the prices optimistic.
Philipp von Sahr, BMW India President
Mr. Philipp von Sahr, President, BMW Group India said, "The all-new MINI Convertible is unapologetically outgoing. It's a spontaneous and emotionally intensive way of savouring authentic MINI driving fun. A non-stop thrill behind the wheel for those who know there's always a little more to feel. It is able to seize and share those intangible moments of pure joy precisely because of its contagious enthusiasm and its impulsive streak. It's creates a world in technicolour, packed with impulse, emotion and unbridled energy."
Philipp von Sahr With New MINI Convertible
In terms of looks and design, the new generation MINI Convertible has grown in dimensions and gets a curvaceous look dominated by the bulbous headlights with LED DRLs and the signature chrome grille. MINI claims the roof can completely retracted within a matter of 18 seconds with speed up to 30 km/h. For the first time, the soft top is also available in an optional MINI Yours version featuring an innovative woven Union Jack graphic. The sporty hatchback now measures 3821mm in length, 1727mm in width and 1415mm in height; having grown by 98mm, 44mm and 1mm in length, width and height respectively. The wheelbase is longer too by 28mm over its predecessor. Being a convertible, MINI had to strengthen the chassis, which has resulted in the car being heavier by 120kg.
In terms of features, the MINI Cooper Convertible is identical to its siblings, complete with the massive centre console infotainment screen, Green and Sport modes, quirky instrument cluster and the iDrive inspired system. The interiors are finished in fabric and leather for the utmost premium appeal with multi-function sport leather steering wheel and sports seats for driver and front passenger are offered as standard. Moreover the new MINI Excitement Package, which comprises LED interior and ambient lighting as well as a projection of the MINI logo on the ground on the driver's side when the door is opened.
New MINI Convertible
The all- new MINI Convertible also comes with the best-in-class safety technology. The standard safety equipment comprises of Front and Passenger Airbags, Brake Assist, 3-Point Seat Belts, Dynamic Stability Control, Crash Sensor, Anti-lock Braking System, Cornering Brake Control and Run-flat Indicator.
Talking about the powertrain under the hood, the new MINI Cooper Convertible is powered by a 2-litre four-cylinder Twin-Power Turbo engine that is tuned to produce 189bhp of power and a peak torque of 280Nm. The engine come paired to a 6-speed automatic transmission along with an optional 6-speed sports automatic transmission . The car do a 0-100 km/h sprint in 7.1 seconds and the top speed is clocked at 233 km/h.
Being the lifestyle vehicle that it is, the MINI Cooper Convertible is sure to find customers in the affluent section of the society with the convertible serving as the novelty. While the retro styled hatchback faces competition from the Fiat Abarth 595 Competizione and the recently launched Volkswagen Beetle in the segment, the MINI Convertible will be enjoying the monopoly for now with no real competition
