New MINI Convertible unveiled

MINI has unveiled the new Convertible version of its hatch which goes on sale in the UK next March. It comes with a fully electric roof that is quieter and smoother than before, plus has more rear space. Prices will start at £18,475 for the Cooper version.

Standard equipment on all models will include a 6.5-inch colour screen, Bluetooth connectivity with USB audio, rear parking sensors and a reversing camera.

The newly designed fully electric roof is quieter than before and folds behind the rear seats more neatly than before. The front section can also be retracted by 40cm while the whole roof can be opened or closed on the move at up to 18mph.

One new feature is the 'rain warner' function. If you're enough of a poser to leave your MINI Convertible parked with the roof down and the forecast is for rain, it will send you a message on your phone suggesting you put down your latte and close the roof.

The engine range echoes the hatch with the a 1.5-litre three-cylinder engine used in the Cooper and Cooper D. The latter can average a claimed 70.6mpg. The top Cooper S gets a 2.0-litre engine with 192PS and covers 0-62mph in 7.6 seconds. A six-speed manual gearbox is standard while a six-speed automatic is available as a quite pricey option - £1625 on the Cooper S. 

As with the hatchback, the dimensions of the Convertible have grown with a slightly longer wheelbase meaning more room inside and a bigger boot - now 25 per cent bigger at 215 litres.