2019 MINI Convertible Review

　　

zzdcar' Expert Review

byDan FrioReviews Editor

　　Dan spent many years covering the go-fast, look-good, get-loud corners of the automotive universe. First, he served as editor of enthusiast magazines AutoSound and Honda Tuning, then as executive editor at SEMA News, the publishing arm of the trade group that produces the annual SEMA Show (yes, that show). As a contributor to zzdcar, he now likes to keep the volume low and the speed limit legal, providing expert car-shopping advice to drivers looking for the perfect match.

　　

What's new

Reconfigured options structure, with new Classic, Signature and Iconic trimsApple CarPlay now availableUpdated infotainment system interfacePart of the third Mini Cooper Convertible generation introduced for 2016

　　Energetic engines and lively handling make the 2019 Mini Convertible one of the most enjoyable drop-tops to drive. Factor in a classy interior, retro charm, and endless possibilities for personalization and the Mini Convertible turns into being a particularly distinctive one as well.

　　The Mini Convertible is an exceptionally fun car to drive, whether it's powered by the base three-cylinder engine, the 189-hp midlevel engine, or the highly caffeinated 228-hp turbo four-cylinder in the John Cooper Works trim. The Mini always feels playful and engaging, its tires firmly embedded in the asphalt.

　　The Mini's extensive paint, interior and performance combinations are what truly set it apart, giving owners a degree of personalization that you'd otherwise associate with luxury brands such as Bentley. Want 18-inch wheels, an illuminating dashboard trim and a Union Jack design stitched into the seat headrests? Done. But there's a catch: The car is also pricier than its rivals. The convertible's base price is just a starting point for a bottomless options list, and the price can escalate with shocking quickness. (Lest we forget, Mini is owned by BMW and follows similar wallet-busting options strategies.)

　　While no other small convertible can match the Mini's level of customization, there are others worth considering, notably the Mazda MX-5 Miata, the Fiat 124 Spider, and even the Volkswagen Beetle convertible. But even among this group, the Mini Convertible's charm and likability stand out. It's that good.

　　

zzdcar' Expert Rating

7.4 / 10

　　Energetic engines and lively handling make the 2019 Mini Convertible one of the most satisfying drop-tops to drive. You also get retro charm and endless possibilities for personalization. But the fun comes at a price.

　　

Trim tested

　　Each vehicle typically comes in multiple versions that are fundamentally similar. The ratings in this review are based on our full test of the Mini Cooper S Convertible (turbo 2.0L inline-4 | 6-speed manual | FWD).

　　NOTE: Since this test was conducted in 2016, the current Mini Convertible has received some revisions, including standard rear parking sensors and a standard rearview camera. Our findings remain broadly applicable to this year's Mini Convertible