Mini is breathing new life into its beloved Cooper Convertible with a fresh design update and enhanced performance options. Despite the decline in convertible popularity since the 2000s boom, Mini is committed to keeping its small, sporty model alive, launching the updated version in January 2025, with a starting price of $34,945.
A Nod to Tradition, a Step into the Future
The Cooper Convertible first debuted at the Geneva Motor Show in 2004, and twenty years later, it’s back with a major facelift. Mini’s head, Stefan Richmann, emphasized their pride in offering a genuine open-top experience in the current Mini lineup, showcasing the brand’s dedication to keeping this model in production. Mini’s decision isn’t surprising, as they had reaffirmed their commitment to the convertible in 2021.
The new model keeps the familiar charm while incorporating updates that align with the latest generation of Mini vehicles. A prominent octagonal grille dominates the front, complete with a horizontal strut housing a small radar sensor, and standard LED headlights offer three distinct light signatures. The car also features a welcoming animation that greets and bids farewell to drivers.
Performance and Practicality
Under the hood, Mini offers two versions of its turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine in the US market. The entry-level model delivers 161 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, reaching 0-60 mph in 7.9 seconds with a top speed of 137 mph. The more powerful Cooper S model produces 201 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque, allowing it to sprint to 60 mph in just 6.7 seconds, with a top speed of 150 mph. For those looking for something sportier, the John Cooper Works (JCW) version is available, featuring its own distinct front and rear design, but performance figures for the JCW and its upcoming e-version remain under wraps until the Paris Motor Show.
Classic Style Meets Modern Convenience
Mini’s fully automatic fabric soft top opens within 18 seconds at speeds of up to 18.6 mph, lowering the window bars and side windows simultaneously. Closing the roof takes just 15 seconds. An integrated rollover protection system is cleverly concealed behind the rear headrests and deploys automatically when the car’s safety electronics detect a rollover risk. With the top down, the trunk offers 5.65 cubic feet of luggage space, expanding to 7.59 cubic feet when the roof is closed. As a nod to its British heritage, the soft top can also be ordered with a contrasting gray Union Jack design.
Updated Interior and Infotainment Features
Inside, Mini maintains its signature quirky style with reduced details and textile surfaces, complemented by a large 9.45-inch OLED display—the “pizza dish” infotainment system. The classic toggle switch strip remains a feature, while a head-up display projects essential driving information directly into the driver’s field of view. The seats come in grey or black with blue textile accents, and for those opting for the JCW trim, beige and Nightshade Blue options are available with contrast stitching.
Pricing and Availability
The entry-level Mini Cooper Convertible starts at $34,945, including a $995 destination charge. The Cooper S model, with its upgraded engine, starts at $38,195. Details on the JCW version, including pricing and specifications, will be revealed soon, but enthusiasts can expect more exciting news when it debuts at the Paris Motor Show.
With this update, Mini stays true to its legacy while adapting to modern tastes, ensuring that fans of the iconic convertible still have a stylish and spirited option in a market where small convertibles are becoming increasingly rare.
