2019 MINI Cooper S Convertible

Mauricio Lezcano / carsntravel.com / Photos Mini Media Information

The British premium automobile manufacturer strengthens the progressive character and appeal of its models in the small car segment with a stylishly refined visual appearance and extensive technological advancements. The update for the MINI Convertible includes fresh design accentuations, innovations in the field of drive technology, and an expansion of the digital services available as part of MINI Connected.

Exterior
A modified design for the characteristic circular headlights make the hallmark front view of the new MINI Convertible even more powerfully expressive. In the standard halogen headlights, a striking accentuation is added by means of a black panel. In the LED headlights available as optional equipment items, the high-quality technology is underscored by means of an entirely newly design of the light sources. The latest generation of the LED modules for low and high beam offers increased brightness. The LED daytime driving light and the turn indicator light are generated by a ring which surrounds the entire contour of the headlight; The rear lights also feature a new design in conjunction with the optional LED headlights. As a clear reference to the brand’s British DNA, the upright light units at the rear now appear in a Union Jack design.

An extensive range of exterior paint colors available for the new MINI Convertible now adds three variants: Emerald Grey metallic, Starlight Blue metallic, and Solaris Orange metallic. What is more, the list of optional equipment items features an additional means of customizing the exterior design. With the option Piano Black Exterior, the surrounds of the headlights, rear lights and radiator grille are finished in high-gloss black instead of chrome.

The selection of optionally available light alloy wheels has been expanded, too. The 17inch light alloy wheels in the design styles Roulette Spoke 2-tone and Propeller Spoke 2-tone are now available for all body variants of the new MINI. The likewise 17-inch light alloy wheels in Rail Spoke 2-tone design have also been newly added to the program.


Interior
A broad selection of seat surfaces, interior surfaces and Color Lines add a touch of individual style to the interior of the new MINI Convertible. In addition, the new option MINI Yours Interior Style Piano Black with illumination includes a backlit decorative panel on the passenger side of the dashboard, likewise finished in Piano Black as well as bearing a stylized Union Jack motif. The color of the backlighting matches the ambient lighting selected by the driver. This option also adds high-gloss Piano Black surfaces in the area of the doors and center console.

The MINI Yours Customized program now raises hallmark brand individualization to a whole new level. It includes retrofit products that can be designed by customers themselves, which are then produced precisely according to these individual specifications. The MINI Yours Customized range will include side scuttles, decorative strips for the interior on the passenger side, LED door sill finishers and LED door projectors.

A new 6.5” display is included as standard, and features an updated and optimized user interface, Bluetooth mobile phone integration, and support for Bluetooth audio streaming. In addition, customers can specify a new 8.8” touchscreen navigation system with new user interface and greatly expanded features.

The innovative optional equipment includes a wireless charging option. A storage compartment integrated in the center armrest enables wireless charging of mobile phones which offer this capability. This option also adds a second USB port in the front section of the center console.

With the new MINI Connected functions, MINI offers a diverse range of digital services at premium level that is unique in the small car segment. New features include Advanced Real Time Traffic Information with 4G LTE connectivity, support for Apple CarPlay, Connected Services, and intelligent emergency call.


Engine and Transmission
Under the hood, with a peak output of 189 bhp, the 2.0 liter 4-cylinder engine gives the MINI Cooper S Convertible a real dash of sporty flair. The maximum torque of the engine is 207 foot-pound and goes on stream at 1,250 rpm.

A 6-speed Sport Automatic Transmission offers improved efficiency, enhanced shift comfort and increased shift dynamics. The new MINI Cooper S Convertible also combines the 6-speed Sport Automatic Transmission with the automatic engine start/stop function, preventing unnecessary fuel consumption caused by idling at junctions or in congested traffic.

Summary
Even with its model designation, the new the MINI Cooper S Convertible remains firmly rooted in the tradition of the British brand. The new MINI Cooper S Convertible achieves its unique standing among direct competitor’s due to its powerfully expressive design, efficiently shaped bodywork and its unmatched driving agility.

Estimated fuel economy is rated at 25 mpg city and 33 mpg highway with the Sport Automatic Transmission and the 2.0 liter MINI TwinPower Turbo 4-cylinder engine, the manufacturer’s suggested retail price starts at $30,900.00, the one I drove included: The Florida Special Edition Package, Touch Screen Navigation Package, JCW Appearance Package, and the Sport Automatic Transmission, and it came in at $41,450.00 including destination charges $850.00.
mlezcano@carsntravel.com

Posted in CAR REVIEWS, MINI.

Emilio Lezcano

Journalist - Editor - Photographer
Professional Race Car Driver

Comments are closed.