VIDEO: Mini Cooper Convertible Debuts at 2009 NAIAS

Mini used the wintery background of Detroit to launch their new four-seat convertible at the North American International Auto Show.

According to Mini the new convertible offers improvements in design, quality, handling, performance, efficiency and functionality when compared to its predecessor. On the design side the new convertible is all Mini, as it features an evolutionally philosophy that mixes the look of the old convertible with the more recent Mini Cooper and Mini Clubman. The biggest news is the addition of a new electromechanically operated roll bar that pops up in the event of a rollover accident, this allows the new convertible to forgo the unattractive fixed bar that was used on the previous generation.

Power comes from a new generation of 1.6-liter four cylinder engines which feature high-tech innovations that increase fuel economy and reduce emissions. The Mini Cooper Convertible is rated at 118 hp while the S version produces 172 hp thanks to the use of a turbocharger and direct injection.

The car's roof can be automatically opened or closed at speeds up to 20 mph (32km/h) while a new gimmick called the "Openometer" displays how long the convertible top has been lowered. Other changes include run-flat tires, a tire pressure monitoring system, an upgraded stability system, and an optional storage system that maximizes cargo capacity.

Delivers of the new Mini drop top will begin on March 28 with prices starting at $24,550 for the Mini Cooper Convertible and $27,450 for the Mini Cooper S Convertible.

Press Release

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MINI will introduce the next generation of its celebrated four-seat convertible at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Joining the 2009 MINI Convertibles on the show floor is the MINI E, the first electric car deployed by a manufacturer of premium automobiles for private use in daily traffic.

The new 2009 MINI Convertible embodies the thrill of open-air motoring in unmistakably MINI style. Raising the high standard set by its predecessor, the new MINI Convertible features improvements in design, quality, handling, performance, efficiency and functionality. The first MINI Convertibles will be delivered March 28, 2009.

Design cues clearly link the new convertible to the MINI family, while the evolutionary design maintains the appeal of the first generation.

A sliding roof allows the driver to automatically open and close the soft top while the car travels up to 20 miles per hour. The “Openometer” records the time spent travelling with the roof down.

Central safety electronics activate a new electromechanically operated rollover bar in the event of a rollover. The innovative safety bar allows for optimum visibility to the rear and sides while the MINI avoids rollovers via run-flat tires, tire pressure monitoring and a sophisticated driving stability system.

An optional loading storage system between the luggage and passenger compartments expands cargo space. The easy-load system includes: an expanded luggage compartment opening, seat backrests that can be folded down and locked into position, and a pivoting, two-position shelf for packages.

A new generation of four-cylinder gasoline engines feature 1.6-liter engines. The MINI Cooper Convertible produces 118 horsepower from its naturally aspirated version with variable valve management; the MINI Cooper S Convertible delivers 172 hp with the help of a Twin-Scroll turbocharger and direct fuel injection. Both engine variants are equipped with technical features that maximize fuel economy and minimize emissions.

The suggested retail price for the MINI Cooper Convertible is $24,550, and for the MINI Cooper S Convertible, $27,450 including $650 destination and handling charge.