2016 Mini Cooper Convertible Launching Tomorrow

Modified On Mar 16, 2016 05:02 PM By Saad for Mini Cooper Convertible

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BMW India is all set to launch the updated version of the Mini Cooper Convertible tomorrow. It was first revealed in October last year and is currently on sale in the UK. The new drop-top vehicle is crafted on the BMW’s new UKL platform and will be brought over to India via CBU (completely build-up unit) route. The new avatar has been altered both in terms of aesthetics and creature comfort. This is the first launch from the company in the year 2016. Earlier it was the new MINI Countryman which was released in August, in 2015.

Talking about the changes, the car has been stretched by 98mm in length, 44mm in width and 1mm in height, when compared to the outgoing model. The new UKL platform lends more room inside the cabin and in the boot, while the wheelbase has been extended by 28mm. The most interesting change regarding the car is the inclusion of an upgraded fabric soft-top. It is electronically controlled and can fold the car into a pram-style bundle, on to the boot lid. The roof can be operated at the speed of up to 30kmph and retraction is just a matter of 18 seconds, which BMW claims is much smoother than before.

On the inside, the car gets a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which is compatible with Bluetooth and USB, while also providing visuals for reverse parking. It has also been strengthened in terms of safety, courtesy rollover protection system. It's a safety cage hidden behind the rear seats, which deploys automatically when sensing a rollover.

As for the engine options, the 2016 Mini Cooper Convertible is expected to get the 1.5-litre 3-cylinder petrol unit that is capable of generating 134bhp along with the hotted up Cooper S which gets the brilliant twin turbo 189bhp 4-cylinder powerplant. There will be a 1.5 litre diesel engine option too, power output of which stands at 116PS. So there is one to choose for every kind of driver. Transmission duties will be handled by either a 6-speed auto or a 6-speed manual, depending on the trim. For driving enthusiasts who love to flaunt these pocket rockets, these engines have a lot on offer.

With so much refinement, we expect the price of the 2016 Mini Cooper Convertible to start around Rs. 35 lacs. When launched, it will be locking horns with the Volkswagen Beetle and the Mercedes A Class.

Also Read: India-bound Mini Countryman Spied in China [Detailed Interior Shots Inside]