MINI has confirmed that its all-new, two-seater Roadster will go on sale next spring, as the sixth model in a line-up which now includes the Hatch, Convertible, Clubman, Countryman and recently launched Coupé.
The first open-topped two-seater in the company’s history, the Roadster offers the same sort of stowage area behind the front seats as you find in the MINI Coupé, even with the canvas soft-top lowered. Nor is there any need for an additional cover for the semi-automatic roof, as its outer skin faces upwards.
As with the Coupé, all variants of the MINI Roadster will carry the Cooper name in their model titles, with prices starting at £18,015 for the MINI Cooper Roadster and rising to £24,850 for the 208bhp John Cooper Works model – which promises 0-62mph in 6.5 seconds.
At 3734mm long, 1683mm wide and with a wheelbase of 2467mm, the Roadster’s footprint closely mirrors that of the MINI Convertible, but the roofline is more than 20mm lower than the four-seater version, giving it a “distinctive, low-slung and visually stretched stance”, says MINI. And, again following the Coupé’s lead, the A-pillars are more steeply raked than the Convertible – angled backwards by an extra 13 degrees.
The Roadster’s standard equipment will include speed-sensitive steering assistance, electrically adjustable and heated exterior mirrors, rear Park Distance Control, air-conditioning and an audio system with MP3-compatible CD player, DAB radio and AUX IN connection. The usual optional extras are also offered, such as MINI Connected with web radio, Google services, RSS news feeds and in-car access to Facebook and Twitter; plus the always-popular on-board computer, multi-function steering wheel, automatic climate control, heated seats and storage compartment package.
There’s plenty of opportunity to customise your MINI Roadster. While the roof is always black, there are two non-metallic and six metallic paint shades, and sport stripes in three colours for the bonnet, boot lid and rear apron.
Text: Charis Whitcombe
Photos: Mini