The New MINI Roadster

MINI recently announced the sixth addition to their line up, the MINI Roadster (click above for its “Adventure in Istanbul” ad). As you may have guessed, this new MINI is the convertible version of the also new MINI Coupé two-seater. The Roadster shares engine and drive train options with the Coupé, ranging from the normally aspirated base gasoline four-cylinder, putting out 122hp and turning a 0-100km/h (0-62mph) time of 9.1 seconds, all the way up to the John Cooper Works edition which adds twin-turbos and ramps up output to 211hp, turning a notable 0-100km/h (0-62mph) time of 6.5 seconds. No power top option at the moment, however MINI says the manual soft top is designed for “spontaneous, rapid opening and closing” and also includes a wind stop situated between the roll bars. Aside from a host of information age options that are now becoming commonplace in the auto market, like navigation, web radio, Google services, RSS feeds and the compulsory Facebook and Twitter access, the Roadster also shares the Coupé’s active rear spoiler which deploys automatically at 80km/h (50mph).

All in all, another nicely done MINI package. Now if only I could get them to put the drive wheels where they’re supposed to be!