PressClub United Kingdom · Article.
The new MINI Convertible.
Fri Oct 23 00:00:00 CEST 2015 Press Kit
The reinvention of the MINI brand continues apace with the launch of the all-new MINI Convertible. With major refinements against its predecessor, the car features a striking new design and significant enhancements to make open-topped MINI motoring even more dynamic, stylish and practical.
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BMW Group
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- New MINI Convertible more dynamic, stylish, practical and refined than ever before
- Three-car line-up at launch: MINI Cooper Convertible, MINI Cooper D Convertible, MINI Cooper S Convertible
- On sale March 2016, priced from £18,475 OTR
- New fully electric roof that’s quieter and more refined. Retracts fully in 18 seconds
- Boot volume increased by 25 per cent against the outgoing model and greater space for rear seat passengers
- Exceptionally high levels of standard equipment: MINI Visual Boost Radio, MINI Connected, Bluetooth, Rear Parking Distance Control and Rear Reversing Camera
- Industry-first personalisation options include new MINI Yours Union Jack woven fabric roof
The reinvention of the MINI brand continues apace with the launch of
the all-new MINI Convertible. With major refinements against its
predecessor, the car features a striking new design and significant
enhancements to make open-topped MINI motoring even more dynamic,
stylish and practical.
Officially on sale in the UK from March 2016, it follows hugely successful model launches in 2004 and 2009. After 12 years of sales success, it remains the only premium soft-top four-seater convertible in the small car segment, and the UK continues to be the largest market worldwide for the new MINI Convertible.
Brand new features include a fully electric roof that is quieter
and smoother than the previous model, a fully integrated rollover
protection system and more rear space than ever before.
A striking new exterior and interior design ensures the new MINI
Convertible is unmistakably MINI, whilst showcasing a blend of
sporting flair and elegant dynamism.
The all-new MINI Cooper Convertible and Cooper D Convertible are
3,821 mm long, with the MINI Cooper S Convertible 3,850 mm long. All
models are 1,727 mm wide, 1,415 mm high and have a wheelbase of 2,495 mm.
Those dimensions have increased compared with the outgoing
model, with 98 mm extra length, 44 mm extra width and 1 mm extra
height. The wheelbase is 28 mm longer and track width has also grown a
further 42 mm at the front and 34 mm at the rear.
The increase in dimensions has enhanced comfort levels and
freedom of movement in all four seats. The two front seats have a
wider range of adjustment, while rear passengers benefit from easier
access, more headroom, a longer seat surface and improved lateral
support. The design of the new rear more clearly defines the two
individual seats.
Day-to-day practicality has also improved. Smart design and
interior packaging means luggage volume has expanded by around 25 per
cent to 215 litres with the roof closed and 160 litres with it folded down.
A high level of standard equipment across the range includes
MINI Visual Boost Radio with a 6.5-inch screen, MINI Connected,
Bluetooth connectivity with USB audio, Rear Parking Distance Control
and a Reversing Camera.
Model | HP | Trans | CO2 | OTR |
MINI Cooper Convertible | 136 | Man | 114 | £18,475 |
Aut | 119 | £19,745 | ||
MINI Cooper D Convertible | 116 | Man | 100 | £20,225 |
Aut | 104 | £21,495 | ||
MINI Cooper S Convertible | 192 | Man | 139 | £22,430 |
Aut | 131 | £24,055 |
Personalisation is once again at the heart of the new MINI Convertible. Options include an industry-first Union Jack design woven into the MINI Yours fabric roof. There are two new exterior colours – Caribbean Aqua and Melting Silver – with a new Chester leather in Malt Brown available for the interior.
A three-car range will be available from launch – the MINI
Cooper Convertible, MINI Cooper D Convertible and MINI Cooper S
Convertible – with two petrol engines and one diesel. On-the-road
pricing starts at just £18,475.
The new MINI Convertible: open-topped motoring in style
The most important element of any convertible is its roof, and
MINI has gone to great lengths to further improve the quality of this
key component. Fully electric, the roof of the new MINI Convertible is
suitable for year-round use and has been optimised for the very best
heat and acoustic insulation. Quieter than ever before, when opened it
folds neatly behind the rear seats. The front roof section can also be
retracted by up to 40 cm, and this can be carried out at any speed.
For a quick reaction to sudden changes in the weather, the
soft-top can be opened and closed at speeds of up to 18 mph. The two
operations are activated by means of a toggle switch on the front roof
frame. When the vehicle is stationary, it can also be operated using a
button on the remote key. Both operations take just 18 seconds. A
button located in the driver’s door trim allows for simultaneous
opening and closing of all four side windows.
As an alternative to the standard version of the soft-top in
black, a MINI Yours version is available for the first time with an
integrated woven graphic. It’s an innovative and unique way to
customise the new MINI Convertible. Based on the popular roof graphic
from the MINI Hatch, the Union Jack motif is finished in a black and
grey herringbone pattern.
Safety is a critical consideration in open-topped cars and the
new MINI Convertible includes new integrated rollover protection which
extends automatically when required. Also improved is the optional
wind deflector which can be locked into position behind the driver and
front passenger seats so to provide protection from unwanted air
turbulence during open-topped driving. After use it can be removed and
stowed in the luggage compartment.
Exterior design: all-new but unmistakable
Reflecting the styling changes already seen on the latest
versions of the MINI 3-door Hatch, MINI 5-door Hatch and MINI Clubman,
the all-new MINI Convertible showcases a blend of sporting flair and
elegant dynamism.
Emphasising the elongated silhouette, the chrome band that runs
horizontally along the shoulder line, the short overhangs and the
sculpted surfaces are all pure MINI. Family cues include the large
circular headlamps with chrome rings, the hexagonal radiator grille,
the ‘side scuttle’ indicator surrounds and black lower edging to the
body panels.
In conjunction with the optional Chrome Line exterior, the lower
air inlet also features a chrome surround. On the MINI Cooper
Convertible and MINI Cooper D Convertible, the ribs of the radiator
grille and the bumper trim where the number plate sits are finished in
high-gloss black. The performance credentials of the new MINI Cooper S
Convertible are highlighted with an additional bonnet vent, and brake
ducts in the lower air inlet. In addition, the chrome rib of the
radiator grille bears an ‘S’ logo in red that’s repeated on the side scuttles.
At the rear, the vertical light clusters feature chrome
surrounds. Add in the tailgate handle strip, the distinctive bumper
and the widening lower section of the body, and this car has all the
MINI family signatures. The new MINI Cooper S Convertible can be
identified by two centrally positioned exhaust pipes and a
model-specific rear apron, complete with diffuser. The other engine
variants have a rear fog light there instead.
Boot volume of the new MINI Convertible is 160 litres with the
roof open and 215 litres when it’s closed. Both figures are
approximately 25 per cent more than its the predecessor. The tailgate
opens downwards and can support a weight of up to 80 kg, for ease of loading.
When the roof is closed, the luggage compartment opening can be
expanded to stow larger items by means of the Easy Load function,
which comes as standard. Two locking handles enable the roof frame to
be swung higher up than in the previous MINI Convertible. For long
loads, the car’s standard 50:50 split folding rear seat back rest
makes life easier. The through-loading facility – widened by 8 mm to
734 mm – is ideal for items such as skis or snowboards.
The selection of paint finishes on the new MINI Convertible has
been extended on this new model. For the first time, Caribbean Aqua
metallic and Melting Silver metallic are now available, in addition to
seven other metallic and four non-metallic finishes. All can be
combined with exterior options including Chrome Line exterior, mirror
caps and bonnet stripes.
A high-quality interior for an exclusive driving ex
perience
MINI’s unique approach to cabin design showcases the best in
contemporary styling, use of premium materials and high-quality
workmanship. Nowhere is that better illustrated than in the new MINI
Convertible, where a new Chester leather is available for the first
time in Malt Brown colour.
At the heart of the car’s appeal is increased space and comfort
compared with the model. The extended adjustment range of the front
seats ensures convenient entry and exit for rear passengers. Longer
seat surfaces, increased headroom, extra shoulder width, extra elbow
space, and more knee room (by 36 mm) all contribute to the enhanced rear.
In the front, MINI’s characterful dashboard and instruments are
as striking as ever. The horizontally structured cockpit matched with
circular or elliptical contours for displays, air vents and door trim
will all be familiar. Much-loved MINI elements such as the instrument
panel on the steering column, large central display screen and red
start/stop button at the centre of the dashboard are all present.
In both the front and rear there are cupholders and storage
spaces for small items and drinks. Bottles of up to 1.5 litres in
volume fit in the two door pockets. A storage package is available as
an option, consisting of storage nets for the luggage compartment and
passenger footwell. A 12-volt socket in the luggage compartment is
also included.
For an interior design geared towards the customer’s own
personal style, there is a broad selection of upholstery colours,
interior surfaces, cockpit facia frames, lighting packages, and Colour
Lines and Chrome Lines for the interior, including MINI Yours options.
MINI TwinPower Turbo Technology: the latest three and
four-cylinder engines
To ensure outstanding driving performance with exceptional
efficiency, the latest generation of EU6-compliant engines are
installed under the bonnet. The petrol engines inside MINI
Cooper Convertible and MINI Cooper S Convertible – 1.5-litre
three-cylinder and 2.0-litre four-cylinder respectively – feature
turbocharging, direct fuel injection with centrally positioned
injectors, variable camshaft control on the intake and exhaust side
(double VANOS) and fully variable VALVETRONIC valve control
technology. On the 1.5-litre diesel three-cylinder engine in the
MINI Cooper D Convertible, there is turbocharging with variable intake
geometry and common rail direct injection.
MINI Cooper
Convertible:
Capacity: 1,499 cc
Output: 100 kW/136 hp at 4 400
rpm
Max. torque: 220 Nm at 1 250 rpm
Acceleration (0–62
mph): 8.8 seconds (automatic: 8.7 seconds)
Top speed: 129 mph
(128 mph)
Average fuel consumption: 55.4 mpg (53.3 mpg)
CO2
emissions: 114 g/km (119 g/km)
MINI Cooper D
Convertible:
Capacity: 1,496 cc
Output: 85 kW/116 hp at 4 000 rpm,
Max. torque: 270 Nm at 1 750 – 2 250 rpm
Acceleration (0–62
mph): 9.9 seconds (automatic: 9.9 seconds)
Top speed: 121 mph
(121 mph)
Average fuel consumption: 70.6 mpg (68.9 mpg)
CO2
emissions: 100 g/km (104 g/km)
MINI Cooper
S
Convertible:
Capacity: 1,998 cc
Output:
141 kW/192 hp at 5 000 – 6 000 rpm
Max. torque: 280 Nm at
1 250 – 4 000 rpm
Acceleration (0–62 mph): 7.2 seconds
(automatic: 7.1 seconds)
Top speed: 143 mph (142
mph)
Average fuel consumption: 46.3 mpg (48.7 mpg)
CO2
emissions: 139 g/km (131 g/km)
Power is directed to the front wheels, with a six-speed manual
transmission as standard. Offering increased efficiency, optimised
acoustic and vibration response and enhanced shift comfort, a gear
sensor enables active engine speed adaptation for especially sporty
shifting when accelerating and increased comfort when shifting down.
A six-speed Steptronic transmission is available as an option,
also more efficient and refined than ever before. Steptronic sports
transmission with steering wheel-mounted shift paddles can be
specified on the MINI Cooper S Convertible. It offers reduced shift
times, and features a Launch Control function for traction-optimised
acceleration from a standing start. Both automatic variants have a
transmission control system that is able to draw on navigation data to
aid gear and shift-point selection.
MINIMALISM technology is fitted as standard across the range,
including an auto start/stop function in conjunction with both manual
and Steptronic transmissions, brake energy recuperation, shift-point
display and electro-mechanical power steering. In addition to the
map-controlled oil pumps, needs-based control of the fuel and coolant
pumps also contributes to the efficiency of the engines. An optimised
preheating process reduces the energy required to start the diesel
engine in the MINI Cooper D Convertible by around 50 per cent.
Extensive underbody panelling optimises aerodynamic performance.
The optional MINI Driving Modes enable individual vehicle set-up
by means of a rotary switch at the base of the gear lever. In addition
to the standard MID mode, there is a choice of SPORT and GREEN.
Adjustments influence the characteristic curves of the accelerator,
steering and – if the car is specified accordingly – the shift
characteristics of the Steptronic transmission and the Dynamic Damper
Control program map.
In SPORT mode, the overall set-up is geared towards active
driving fun, while GREEN mode supports relaxed and fuel-efficient
driving. For example, in Steptronic cars it’s possible to use the
‘coasting’ function, where the drivetrain is decoupled at speeds of
between 31 and 99 mph as soon as the driver’s foot is removed from the
accelerator pedal.
Optimised suspension set-up for sporty handling and the latest safety technology
The increase in wheelbase and track width over the outgoing
model has provided an ideal starting point for the driving dynamics of
the all-new MINI Convertible. The combination of single-joint strut
front axle and multi-link rear axle – unique in the small car segment
– and a convertible-specific set-up means the car is exceptionally
agile but also supremely comfortable on all road surfaces. A sports
suspension, which is geared towards even more dynamic driving, is
available as an option on all models.
The electro-mechanical power steering includes speed-related
Servotronic support for maximum precision during cornering and for
comfortable manoeuvring at low speeds. A new option, available for the
first time on the MINI Convertible, is Variable Damper Control. Two
program maps are available to choose from, allowing the MINI Driving
Modes to be used to activate either a comfort-oriented or a sporty response.
The MINI Cooper Convertible and MINI Cooper D Convertible are
fitted with 15-inch light alloy wheels as standard. The MINI Cooper S
Convertible comes with 16-inch light alloy wheels. Optional extras, in
sizes from 16 to 18 inches, can be specified by the customer.
In addition to the ABS, electronic brake force distribution
(EBD), cornering brake control (CBC), and the brake assistant, the
standard-fit driving stability control system (DSC) also includes a
drive-off assistant, a brake dry function, fading brake support and
dynamic traction control (DTC). This latter system permits controlled
slip for driving off in loose sand or snow.
Enhancing the driving stability control system (DSC), and active
even when DSC is turned off, there is an electronic locking function
for the front axle differential known as the electronic differential
lock control (EDLC). This selectively brakes a spinning drive wheel on
tight corners, redirecting torque to the other wheel. A standard
feature in the MINI Cooper S Convertible, performance control supports
agile steering for dynamic cornering prior to reaching the threshold level.
The agile, highly predictable and secure driving offered by the
new MINI Convertible is due to its highly rigid body structure. The
convertible-specific elements which increase stiffness include torsion
struts in the front and rear area of the underbody, selective
optimisation in the area of the side sills and a stiffening plate
underneath the engine.
In addition, the new MINI Convertible is fitted with a rollover
protection system with actuators connected to the car’s safety
electronics. For the first time, the rollover protection elements are
integrated and completely invisibly. As soon as the car detects the
risk of a rollover, two protection bars made of high-strength
aluminium retract within 150 milliseconds by means of a pyrotechnical
trigger. Combined with the convertible-specific reinforced windscreen
frame, this forms a stable survival space for vehicle occupants.
Additional standard safety features include front airbags, side
head-thorax airbags integrated in the backrests and three-point
automatic belts on all seats. These include belt tensioners at the
front, plus ISOFIX child seat mountings at the rear and for the front
passenger seat. A tyre pressure display for each individual wheel is
also fitted as standard. Meanwhile, a partially active bonnet, impact
absorbers and precisely defined deformation elements ensure optimised
pedestrian protection.
Driver assistance systems: innovations for increased comfort
and safety
MINI’s suite of driver assistance systems are second to none,
and many are showcased on the new Convertible. They include park
distance control (PDC) with rear sensors and rear view camera as
standard, and front sensors as an option. Parking Assistant is also
available as an option.
The Driving Assistant option comprises a camera-based cruise
control and distance control system, as well as collision and
pedestrian warning with initial brake function. It also includes road
sign detection for speed limits and overtaking bans, plus high beam assistant.
New to the MINI Convertible is MINI Head-Up Display. The system
projects driving-related information on to an extendible display in
the upper area of the instrument panel. There it can be read quickly
and conveniently without the driver having to avert their eyes from
the road.
A high level of standard equipment, plus desirable options
Standard across the range is air conditioning, central locking
with keyless engine start and MINI Visual Boost Radio with AUX-In and
USB socket. Two-zone air conditioning with an automatic convertible
mode is available as an optional extra.
Others options include a sports steering wheel (standard on the
MINI Cooper S Convertible), heated front seats, a visibility package
including windscreen heating, a rain sensor with automatic driving
lights control, Comfort Access, a Harmon Kardon hi-fi speaker system,
plus heated/folding exterior mirrors. A new digital version of the
Always Open Timer, which registers the time spent driving with the
roof down, is also on the options list.
In addition, there is a MINI Yours sports steering wheel with a
soft nappa rim and hand-stitched seams, as well as sports-oriented
John Cooper Works options. These include an aerodynamics kit, leather
steering wheel and sport seats.
A host of new exterior lighting options are available on the
car, including all-LED lights, the addition of adaptive light
distribution geared towards driving situation and road layout, plus an
LED turning light. Inside the car, the optional LED lighting package
creates a sophisticated ambience. The MINI Excitement Package includes
a downwards projection of the MINI logo from the exterior mirror on
the driver’s side, activated when the car is unlocked.
Customers wishing to add extra spice to their MINI Convertible
can choose to add a Chili pack to their car. Containing some of the
most popular optional extras, such as LED headlights and daytime
running lights, Interior lighting pack, Automatic dual-zone air
conditioning, cruise control, MINI Excitement pack and much more,
Chili pack helps MINI Convertible customers to get more MINI for their money.
New from MINI Connected: MINI Streetwise and rain warning
function.
MINI Visual Boost Radio and MINI Connected are standard across
the range, with MINI Navigation System and MINI Navigation System XL,
featuring a gorgeous 8.8 inch colour display, available as an option.
MINI Connected offers extensive integration of smartphones in the car,
allowing access to infotainment, communication and driving experience apps.
The MINI Connected app comprises new and exclusive functions to
increase comfort and driving pleasure in the MINI Convertible. For
example, Streetwise is available for the first time, providing the
driver with tips for the optimum route before the journey gets underway.
A SIM card can be fitted permanently into the new MINI
Convertible. This means Intelligent Emergency Call with automatic
detection of vehicle location and accident severity is available, as
well as MINI TeleServices. The optional Media XL Pack includes both
MINI Navigation XL and MINI Connected XL with the Journey Mate
function. This helps the driver plan routes, as well as providing
personalised information while travelling. It also features a
real-time traffic radar function with highly precise and up-to-date
traffic information.
Another new feature incorporated into MINI Connected XL,
developed especially for the MINI Convertible, is the ‘rain warner’
function. If the vehicle is parked with the roof open and the forecast
is bad, the driver is sent a message via their smartphone suggesting
that it might be time to close up. If the MINI Convertible is being
driven and there is rain forecast ahead, the driver will be alerted on
the centre console. Additionally, if the car is travelling over 30
mph, MINI Connected XL will suggest possible places to pull over and
close the roof.
Ends
The BMW Group
With its three brands BMW, MINI
and Rolls-Royce, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium
manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium
financial and mobility services. As a global company, the BMW Group
operates 30 production and assembly facilities in 14 countries and has
a global sales network in more than 140 countries.
In 2014, the BMW Group sold approximately 2,118 million cars and 123,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax for the financial year 2014 was approximately € 8.71 billion on revenues amounting to € 80.40 billion. As of 31 December 2014, the BMW Group had a workforce of 116,324 employees.
The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company has therefore established ecological and social sustainability throughout the value chain, comprehensive product responsibility and a clear commitment to conserving resources as an integral part of its strategy.
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Relations Executive
Tel: 07815
370747 Email: Sarah.Morris@mini.co.uk
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370990 Email: Chris.Overall@mini.co.uk
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Manager, Product and Internal Communications
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378190 Email: Piers.Scott@bmw.co.uk
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Communications Director
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376867 Email: Graham.Biggs@bmw.co.uk
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