The year 2016 has been a mixed bag for many but for the automotive industry and its hard core fans the year has been a boon with so many awaited products getting launched one after the other. Soon after seeing the majestic beauties namely Mercedes Maybach S600 Guard, Benz E-class Edition E, Volvo S60 and Ferrari 488GTB at the Indian soil, the British carmaker – Mini – owned by BMW, has finally put an end to the long lasting wait of its loyal fans by launching its 2016 Cooper Convertible at a price tag of Rs. 34.5 Lakh (ex-showroom).
The soft top derivative of the 3-door Cooper joins the already existing 5-door and 3-door models and will follow the CBU (Completely Built-up Unit) route to make its entry in the Indian sub-continent, thus keeping the cost minimalistic. When available, the car will serve in the performance-cum-luxury hatch segment and compete against the likes of Mercedes-Benz A-class and Volkswagen Beetle.
The all new 2016 Mini Cooper Convertible is based on the UKL platform that has added that extra figures to the vehicle that is now 1727mm wide, 3850mm long and 1415mm high with an extended wheelbase by 28mm in comparison to the previous version. The USP of this sexy beast is the electronically controlled convertible roof-top that can get open or close at a speed of 30Kmph in mere 18 seconds. In order to give more strength to the chassis, the car has put on weight by 120Kgs.
The new model comes with new safety features, which include rollover protection system that automatically creates a safety shelter in case of a rollover. It will be available in optional MINI Yours version that comes with an embroidered Union Jack Graphic having herringbone pattern in detail.
At the launch event, the President of the BMW Group India, Mr. Philipp Von Sahr, said, "The all-new MINI Convertible is unapologetically outgoing. It's a spontaneous and emotionally intensive way of savoring authentic MINI driving fun. A non-stop thrill behind the wheel for those who know there's always a little more to feel. It is able to seize and share those intangible moments of pure joy precisely because of its contagious enthusiasm and its impulsive streak. It's creates a world in Technicolor, packed with impulse, emotion and unbridled energy."
From the outside, Mini Cooper Convertible has a curvaceous design highlighted by the signature chrome grille, alloy wheels with sporty look, chrome tail lamps and bulging headlights with LED DRLs. On the other hand, the inside carries its own beauty with the amazing amalgamation of leather and fabric, a 6.5-inch infotainment display and reverse parking feature. A bigger screen with a size of 8.8-inch is also in option with Bluetooth connectivity and Touch Controller. To provide a comfortable ride to the owner, the Cooper Convertible comes with MINI Excitement Package that include ambient lighting and LED interior and a projected MINI Logo at the bottom of the driver's side at the time the door is open. Other exciting optional features available with the 3-door MINI Convertible include LED headlights with cornering function, Harmon-Kardon hi-fi music system and MINI Head-up display.
As far as the safety is concerned, the new MINI is blessed with the top-of-the-line safety features namely 3-Point Seat Belts, Anti-lock Braking System, Front and Passenger Airbags, Run-flat Indicator, Dynamic Stability Control, Brake Assist, Cornering Brake Control and Crash Sensor.
Under the hood, 2016 Cooper Convertible comes with a 2-liter 4-cylinder powertrain having Twin-turbo technology and is capable of churning out 192bhp of maximum power and a peak torque of 280Nm. The mill is mated with a 6-speed automatic transmission along with paddle shifters behind the steering wheel. The 3-door convertible is capable of sprinting 0-100Kmph in mere 7.1 seconds and can attain a top speed of 233kmph.
The 2016 Mini Cooper is a lifestyle vehicle that though in race with Volkswagen Beetle and Merc A-class stands class apart and enjoys the monopoly of being the only of its type with no real competition.