Into the sun

THE new Mini Convertible is being launched this weekend and it is bigger and better.

The only premium open-air model in its segment also has improved interior packaging, resulting in an additional 40 mm of rear knee space. At the back, there is also 25 per cent more luggage space with the roof up. The four-seater model has a fabric roof which can be opened or closed in 18 seconds, while the car is moving at up to 30 kmh.

There are two variants - the Mini Cooper S Convertible and the Mini Cooper Convertible. Both have turbocharged petrol engines mated to a six-speed automatic transmission to drive the front wheels. The Cooper S has a 2.0-litre four-cylinder unit, while the Cooper uses a 1.5-litre three-cylinder power plant.