MINI COOPER S CONVERTIBLE

MINI COOPER S CONVERTIBLE 

DELIVERS MAXI FUN BEBIND THE WHEEL

Though it has a history that dates back to the late 1950s, the latest Mini is a relative newcomer to the U.S., not returning to showrooms here as a 2002 model under the auspices of German automaker BMW,, which gained control of the iconic British icon when it acquired the Rover Group in 1994.

Its compact size makes the Mini an ideal vehicle for crowded urban environs while at the same time evoking a carefree experience for enthusiasts who like a little fun while they are driving.

BMW reported U.S. sales of under 25,000 Mini Coopers when it was returned about about about a four-decade absence, but they jumped to over 36,000 for 2003. They then topped 40,000 for the first time in 2005 and just over 54,000 three years later.

The all-time U.S. sales high, according to the Library of Motoring, a website that keeps track of such data, was 66,502 for 2013. Sales dropped to under 50,000 in 2017 and were only in the high 20,000 range for three years until topping 33,000 last year. 

The 2002 Mini was a three-door hatchback in Cooper or Cooper S trim with the base getting 115 horsepower from its 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine. The supercharged version in the Cooper S upped that to 161 horsepower.

Mini now comes in a variety of trims that even include a 4-door version, all-electric models, and convertibles.

This review is based on the Mini Cooper S Convertible that was redesigned for 2025 but retains all the familiar personal quirks the Mini is loved for. Like bug-eye headlamps.

The turbocharged 4-cylinder engine in the Mini Cooper S now puts out 201 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. The only transmission offered is 7-speed dual clutch automatic with gears selected not by the customary center shifter but via a toggle switch for drive, neutral, reverse and a button for park.

Unfortunately, the ignition switch is right next to it and it’s easy to twist it and turn the motor off when what you want to do is shift gears after backing out of the driveway until you get used to the setup.

All tech features work off the big center disc touchscreen that is part of Mini’s legacy. Items usually found in a separate or accompanying instrument panels, including the speed limit, also are found on the center screen, though the speed also shows up in a head-up display in front of the driver’s eyes.

Standard tech features include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth communication, and wireless charging. To open and close the folding top, you push or pull down on a small switch above the rear-view mirror. It opens in sections, pausing halfway through lowering so you can leave it there for the experience of a sunroof.

Other standard features include LED lighting, dual-zone automatic climate control. a heated steering wheel, auto start/stop and auto hold, and standard cruise control. Adaptable cruise control is available as an upgrade.

Safety systems include electronic brake force distribution, parking assist,  and the usual assortment of seatbelts and airbags. Forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure and lane change warning, blind spot detection, and rear cross-traffic alert come in an optional Iconic Trim package.

Staring MSRP for the 2025 Mini Cooper S Convertible is $39,600. My test vehicle came with several extras — some at no charge — like a Comfort Package that included an auto-dimming rearview mirror and keyless entry bringing the final total to $42,895 including the $995 destination charge.

What I liked about the 2025 Mini Cooper S Convertible: It’s a fun car to drive with the turbocharged engine delivering a peppy performance. Driver assist features include Auto Hold and Start/Stop, both activated via the touchscreen menu. The roof can be partially opened to function as a sunroof instead of a full open air experience. Audio volume can be adjusted by buttons on the steering wheel or a small knob at the bottom of the center stack.

What I didn’t like about the 2025 Mini Cooper S Convertible: There is no separation of typical instrument panel gauges and for operation of tech apps. Everything works off the large center touchscreen. Toggle switches for selecting gears and starting the engine are too close together. The top doesn’t fold flat in the rear when the roof is lowered and it restricts the view out the back. You also must keep constant pressure on the button to raise and lower the top. No manual transmission is offered. Back seat and trunk space is very limited. The overall ride is not the smoothest.

Would I buy the 2025 Mini Cooper S Convertible: Not in my taste. It most certainly not work for family transportation but would be a fun vehicle as a commuter.