2023 MINI Convertible John Cooper Works Classic

2023 MINI Convertible Review

　　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.

　　The open-air version of Mini's iconic hardtop two-door, the 2023 Mini Convertible gets a handful of enhancements that make it a solid pick for sunny season motoring. A thorough update last year infused the front and rear ends with more fluid styling, while new tech included a larger touchscreen and digital driver display. This year, adaptive cruise control emerges as a stand-alone option (previously only available bundled in a package) and Apple CarPlay finally becomes a standard feature (sorry, Android users, still no Android Auto support). A new Resolute Edition blends bronze styling accents on a dark green exterior, with a checkered plaid upholstery design.

　　As with last year's updates, none of the 2023 model's changes make the Mini any more competitive with its peers. It remains one of the pricier picks in a class that includes the agile Mazda Miata and larger, more powerful Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro drop-tops. The Miata is consistently fun on a winding road, but it only offers two seats, while the Ford and Mustang, well, they're so common the Mini might look "special" by comparison. Part of the Mini Convertible's appeal lies in the myriad ways you can personalize it with color, trim and wheel choices, even at the expense of some performance.

　　Of note: Mini recently announced the suspension of its manual-transmission models, citing supply chain challenges. The base trim Classic is also being suspended, making the Signature trim the new base level. Mini says these changes are temporary but offers no timeline for their return.

　　zzdcar Expert Rating

　　Our VerdictThe zzdcar Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.

　　Average

　　7.2

　　out of 10

　　zzdcar TESTED

　　Rated for you by America's best test team.

Performance

　　How does the Convertible drive? We tested the Mini Convertible in the John Cooper Works (JCW) trim. The JCW should be the top of the heap, but it doesn't feel much more special than the S trim. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took 6 seconds in our test car, which is quick for a convertible in this class. The Mini's turbocharged engine makes plenty of torque but lacks the fun, high-revving character of the Mazda Miata's engine.

　　Panic braking from 60 mph yielded a best result of 119 feet, which is an average distance; we expected better. Most of the blame falls on the Mini JCW's somewhat narrow tires, which also limit its outright handling ability. We love its nimbleness, but less expensive Mini Convertible trims give you that as well.

Comfort

　　How comfortable is the Convertible? The expected stiff and sporty ride of a Mini is certainly present with the John Cooper Works version. While it's never unduly harsh, it can be jittery over less than smooth pavement. Our test car came with optional adaptive dampers, but we didn't feel there was enough of a difference between the Normal and Sport modes to warrant the extra expense. The front seats are supportive and comfortable, but rear passengers will likely complain about the vertical seatbacks and lack of shoulder room.

　　The Mini's top looks and feels well constructed, but it lets in a lot of ambient noise and road noise when you're driving at highway speeds. In fact, when we tested interior noise levels, we found it's barely louder with the top down than when it's up. The JCW's center exhaust produces some nice burbles and pops but can drone over extended periods of driving at a constant speed.

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