2017 Mini Cooper

The Mini Cooper Convertible is available in three options; the base Convertible, S Convertible, and the John Cooper Works. However, the latter two feature more powerful engines under their hoods and have distinct styling cues and features. Consequently, they are treated as separate models. So, for the purpose of this review, the Mini Cooper Convertible is available as a standalone option. It carries an MSRP of $25,950 and for the price you pay for it, Mini’s standard turbocharged inline-3 unit delivers an efficient and exhilarating performance.

We Recommend

The Mini Cooper Convertible is available as a standalone unit and there is not much of a recommendation that can be made in this regard. Even if you opt for the convertible in its standard avatar, the Mini Cooper does not stand to disappoint. However, if were to specify our convertible, we would opt for the JCW Interior Package, which at just $600 improves the appeal of the cabin.

The Mini Cooper Convertible is available with a standard 1.5L turbocharged three-cylinder unit. While the setup might seem odd for the class, Mini’s oneness lies in its ability to deliver a decent performance, despite its lower outputs. It produces 134hp of power and 162 lb.-ft of torque, with power being transferred to the front wheels of the vehicle. However, unlike the standard engine and drivetrain configuration, Mini provides an option to opt for either a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission to work in tandem with the powertrain setup.

The Mini Cooper Convertible is not built for speedy pursuits. Its engine, at its best, is only decent in its performance. It can sprint from 0-60 mph in 7.8 seconds, which is the slowest in the segment, and manages to average a top speed of 125 MPH. However, if you want better performance, the Cooper S Convertible and JCW variants offer larger turbocharged inline-4 units that produce better outputs and are evidently quicker.

The Volkswagen Beetle Convertible is, undoubtedly, the most powerful option available in the segment. It is good for 170hp and 184 lb.-ft of torque, yet it remains one of the slowest convertibles available on the market today. It takes 7.6 seconds to the 60mph mark and is easily bested by the likes of the Mazda and Fiat, which take 6 and 6.4 seconds to achieve a similar feat. Additionally, 2017 124 Spider has the highest top speed of 136 MPH and its performance in the quarter-mile sprint is also appreciable and it falls just behind the class-leading MX-5 Miata.

2017 Mini Cooper Convertible Ride and Handling

The Mini Cooper Convertible is compact and its manageable dimensions allow it to be city-friendly. While for everyday use it proves to be a niche offering, the Cooper Convertible’s rather stiff suspension occasionally takes away from the driving pleasure. However, with a well-weighted and responsive steering wheel, handling feels top-notch. Even in the absence of an AWD configuration, the Mini feels easy to drive, and its confidence-inspiring performance around the corners allows it to compete with the sharpness of the Mazda MX-5 Miata.

In terms of acceleration, however, it does seem to be a bit sluggish and even its braking capabilities might not be the best in the segment. But considering that the Mini Cooper Convertible is built for everyday drivability, it sure is impressive. The 6-speed manual transmission complements well the entire setup and even if you opt for the optional 6-speed automatic, you would not be disappointed. Both these units are highly responsive, are free of any lag, and by helping in linear power delivery, they make the convertible a delight.

2017 Mini Cooper Convertible Braking Performance

Perhaps, Mini’s performance remains underwhelming even when braking is concerned. Though it comes with 11 and 10.2-inch brake rotors at the front and rear, respectively, it takes 119ft to come to a halt when decelerating from 60 mph. Though it lurks at the bottom of the table, the Cooper Convertible is equipped with 4-wheel ABS and front ventilated brakes to efficiently manage the heft of the vehicle.

In comparison, both the Mazda MX-5 Miata and Fiat 124 Spider have a similar braking setup and come with rotors that measure 11-inches, both at the front and rear. Yet, due to slight differencesin their curb weights, the braking distances of both these vehicles tend to differ. While the Mazda comes to a halt at 110ft, the Fiat takes an additional 5 ft. On the other hand, the Volkswagen Beetle Convertible is no better than the Mini. Though it does get a larger set of brakes, it weighs almost 400 lbs more than the Cooper Convertible and manages to take only a foot less in the deceleration test.

Mini Cooper Convertible’s visible power deficit does help it establish a lead in terms of efficiency and frugality. The vehicle averages 28 MPG in the city and 37 MPG on the highway, which are the highest figures in the segment. Even when driven on combined surfaces, its mileage of 32 MPG, allows it to remain streets ahead of its competitors. However, it comes with the least voluminous tank on offer, which can hold around 11.6-gallons, and consequently, its range remains lower than most of its competitors.

In the segment, the Volkswagen Beetle Convertible, leads in terms of range, despite of its lower efficiency. Its superior performance can be attributed to its larger tank, which holds around 14.5-gallons of fuel and allows the vehicle to average 405 miles when driven in combined conditions. Beetle’s range is at least 13 miles more than any of its competitors and while the Mazda and Fiat do fall behind in this regard, they manage to average better mileages of 29 and 30 MPG, respectively.

The Mini Cooper Convertible’s interior has not vastly improved from the outgoing model, nonetheless, it still remains a snug place to be in. Sharing its DNA with BMW, the Cooper convertible gets adorned with the best quality materials and though there is some hard plastic that makes its way onto the dashboard, the overall opulent aura on the inside remains intact. However, amidst all its lushness, the Mini does not let go of its quirkiness. It still features the roundish designs inside the cabin and the circular infotainment screen and gauge cluster continue to be its most distinctive features. But to match up to the requirements and wants of the buyers, the vehicle is equipped with dual-zone climate control, interior air filtration, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.

As for space and comfort, the 2017 Cooper Convertible is not as well-rounded as one would expect it to be. While the front seats offer a comfortable position and are aided by manual adjustability, the rear seats are where the car’s actual problems lie. The space seems confined at the back and it is best to seat children, as taller passengers will find it difficult to find the right amount of legroom and under-thigh support, due to the seat’s upright position. Or, you could alternatively use it for storage, considering that the Mini has an underwhelming trunk volume of 7.6 cubic feet. 

In comparison, the Volkswagen Beetle Convertible is the only other option in the segment with the second row of seats. However, as is the case with Mini, its space is constricted. On the other hand, the Mazda MX-5 Miata and Fiat 124 Spider can accommodate two passengers only. But even with a single row of seats, there is not enough space, and even comfort feels compromised. They lack practicality in their setups and their cargo capacities, at just under 5 cubic feet, also feel shambolic.

Volkswagen also manages to lead the segment when storage capacity is concerned and its cargo capacity of 15.4 cubic feet is on par with some typical sedan options in the market. Additionally, it sports one of the more enticing interior setups in the segment, and unlike their counterparts, both the Beetle Convertible and Cooper Convertible, are highly tranquil.

Some of the standout interior features include:

• John Cooper Works Interior Package
• Tilt and Telescopic Steering Wheel
• Leatherette Upholstery
• Height-adjustable front seats
• Split-folding rear seat
• Keyless Ignition

How intuitive is the infotainment system of the 2017 Mini Cooper Convertible?

The infotainment system on the 2017 Mini Cooper Convertible might seem pretty basic, but it’s evidently utilitarian. The convertible comes with a 6.5-inch display unit, which is easily responsive, has sharp graphics, and has a clear display with logically placed menus. It sports Bluetooth connectivity and smartphone integration and with the standardization of the Media Package in 2017, a well-sounding 6-speaker sound system is now standard. Some other standout infotainment features include:

• MP3 Player
• USB Connection
• Auxiliary Audio Input
• 6-speaker sound system
• HD Radio
• 6.5-inch display unit

The Mini Cooper Convertible is not just quirky, but its design has an underlying element of sophistication and opulence to it. It feels well-crafted and by maintaining its connection to the original design, the convertible promises to be a looker even in 2017. While most of its design cues are similar to the Cooper hatchback, the fabric rooftop that folds within 15 seconds is a treat to rejoice. Like on the inside, the Cooper Convertible is also about circular designs on the outside, case in point, its imposing headlights, and has several character lines that run through the body. Additionally, it has some other familiar styling elements like a traditional grille at the front and a set of pleasing taillights, which add to the appeal of the vehicle.

The 2017 Mini Cooper Convertible is the most compact option available in the segment. Yet it sports one of the longer wheelbases in the segment of 98.2 inches. It sits close to the ground and has a clearance of only 4.5 inches, making it unfit for any off-road activities you might have planned. It is also one of the heavier hatchbacks in the segment and weighs around 2,855 lbs.

Despite seating two passengers only, both the Mazda MX-5 Miata and Fiat 124 Spider are marginally larger than the Mini Cooper Convertible, however, do they come with shorter wheelbases of 90.9 inches. On the other hand, the Volkswagen Beetle Convertible lies at the other end of the spectrum. It is, both visually and statistically, larger than all of its competitors and 168.4 inches long with a wheelbase of 100 inches. Additionally, it is also the heaviest vehicle at 3,012 lbs and also sports the highest ground clearance of 5.7 inches.

Some standout exterior features include:

• 15-inch alloy wheels
• All-electric fabric soft-top
• Heated Exterior Mirrors
• Rear Fog Lights
• LED Headlights
• Chrome Line Exterior

There is no doubt that Mini’s vehicles are a safe and reliable option. And considering its built with side-impact beams and a higher number of crumple zones for added protection, the Cooper Convertible is a true embodiment of the brand. It scores 4 out of 5 stars in the crash tests conducted by the NHTSA and also manages to secure an overall rating of “Good” when tested by the IIHS. Additionally, to improve its prowess and tap its fullest potential, the vehicle comes equipped with a plethora of standard safety tech, which includes a comprehensive airbag system for all passengers, electronic stability control, and rollover protection system. Some other safety specifications include:

• Tire Pressure Monitoring System
• Daytime Running Lights
• Child Seat Anchors
• Emergency Braking Assist
• Rear Parking Sensors (optional)
• Rearview Camera

2017 Mini Cooper Convertible vs 2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata

The Mazda MX-5 Miata and Mini Cooper Convertible are probably the longest standing options in the segment and given their rich heritage, both convertibles make for a fitting choice. However, if we were to choose one for ourselves, our money would be on the Mini. The Cooper Convertible is the more practical option amongst the two. It boasts higher efficiency, has a sizable boot, and also benefits from the second row of seats. And while the Mazda is quicker and sharper in its performance, its cabin lacks tranquility, and at an almost similar price, the luxuries of the Mini make it a paramount choice.

2017 Mini Cooper Convertible vs 2017 Fiat 124 Spider

The Fiat 124 Spider debuts into the segment for the first time and against a stalwart like the Mini Cooper Convertible, it manages to put forth a strong performance. It is considerably quicker than the latter, finds itself averaging a higher range, and performs valiantly in the braking segment as well. However, Fiat’s smallish cabin, a clunky transmission, and sloppy interface make it take a step back. And finally, by being highly opulent and plush, the Cooper Convertible promises to be the better option.

2017 Mini Cooper Convertible vs 2017 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible

Being prime German competitors, the Mini Cooper Convertible and Volkswagen Beetle Convertible are rather closely matched. It is difficult to distinguish between based on its acceleration and braking, however, the Beetle Convertible is more efficient, and carries a price tag lower than its competitors. However, by paying a couple of thousand dollars, Mini’s extravagant and flamboyant setup, makes it a viable alternative.

The Mini Cooper Convertible is a jack of all trades. While there is no urgency in its performance, Mini’s sophistication is what will attract customers towards it. Additionally, it is highly efficient, and though it is short on range, the refinement in its overall drive makes it worth the money you spent on it. So, if you are looking for a practical convertible that is opulent, and can be a worthy looker for a family of four, there is no need to look ahead of the Cooper Convertible.