2021 Mini Cooper Convertible

~ “A Top-Down Weekend Get-Away for Two” ~

If you’re planning a “mini” weekend excursion for two (or four in a pinch), few cars are as quirky and free-feeling as the 2021 Mini Cooper Convertible.

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When thinking of retro-inspired quirky compacts, three cars probably immediately come to mind: the Fiat 500, the Volkswagen Beetle, and the Mini Cooper. Surprisingly, only the latter has survived past the 2019 model year… It’s a dying segment, unfortunately. But, luckily, MINI is keeping it alive with their oh-so-iconic mini flair!

As far as occupancy goes, the 2021 Mini Cooper Convertible seats up to only 4-passengers, unlike its non-convertible twin which seats up to 5. But, at least your rear passengers will benefit from adjustable headrests (which isn’t too common among compact cars).

Oh! And in about 18 seconds, the headroom suddenly becomes virtually limitless thanks to the power-retractable soft top. Just flip the toggle on the ceiling (or click the button via your key fob), and you’re all set!

Literally… THE SKY IS THE LIMIT with the Cooper Convertible!

~ Estimated Vehicle Pricing ~

$28,400 – $51,000

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Powertrain / Fuel Efficiency / Range

For 2021, the Mini Cooper Convertible has two engines to pick from. Those engine options are:

• 1.5-Liter 3-Cylinder Turbo Engine ➞ 134-hp
• 2.0-Liter 4-Cylinder Turbo Engine ➞ 189-hp

Driving enthusiasts who enjoy shifting their own gears will be happy to hear that a slick 7-speed automated-manual (DCT) and a precise 6-speed true-manual gearbox will be available on both engine options mentioned above.

Keep in mind that only front-wheel drive is available for 2021 convertible models. Nevertheless, as you expect from MINI, the Cooper Convertible is spry, nimble, and very much go-kart-like! After all, the Mini Cooper Convertible is riding on a short wheelbase and has a rather lightweight to lug around (approx. 3,000 lbs).

Fuel economy for the 2021 Mini Cooper Convertible varies depending on specific configurations. For your convenience, reference the fuel economy table below:

Engine	Transmission	MPG*
1.5 Turbo (3-Cylinder)	7-Speed DCT	28 / 36 / 31
1.5 Turbo (3-Cylinder)	6-Speed Manual	26 / 37 / 30
2.0 Turbo (4-Cylinder)	7-Speed DCT	26 / 34 / 29
2.0 Turbo (4-Cylinder)	6-Speed Manual	23 / 32 / 26

Also, MINI notes that the 2021 Cooper Convertible has an 11.6-gallon fuel tank capacity.

QUICK MARCUS MATH: In theory, after some quick number crunching, the most fuel-efficient configuration for 2021 Cooper Convertible should be able to achieve slightly over 400 miles of range on one full tank of gas (in the most ideal driving conditions).

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Cargo Versatility

When it comes to cargo space, let’s just say the Mini Cooper Convertible lives up to its “MINI” name… Pun absolutely intended! Check out the cubic volumes below:

• Soft-Top Lowered ➞ 5.7-cubic feet
• Soft-Top Raised ➞ 7.6-cubic feet

Before you start cringing at the sub-double-digit numbers, it is important to note that this was once extremely competitive with the now-defunct Volkswagen Beetle Convertible and now-extinct Fiat 500 Cabriolet…

Discontinued competitors at a glance:

• 2019 Fiat 500 Cabriolet (Behind 2nd Row) ➞ 5.4-cubic feet
• 2019 VW Beetle Convertible (Behind 2nd Row) ➞ 7.1-cubic feet

As you can see, both of those discontinued retro-inspired quirky compact convertibles also had cargo capacities well below 10-cubic feet.

Is trunk space a BIG deal-breaker for you when road trippin’?

✎ Comment down below! ✎

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Safety

As far as safety tech goes, MINI packs the 2021 Cooper Convertible with commendable safety technologies as long as you’re willing to pay. MINI, by no means, is behind when it comes to advanced safety tech; they just don’t offer that much as standard equipment (which is honestly typical for most British/German brands). Nonetheless, notable safety enhancement features include:

• Standard Automatic Emergency Braking
• Optional Adaptive Cruise Control
• Optional MINI Park Assist… Yes! It totally parks itself!

Although the 2021 model has not yet been tested by the IIHS, the 2019 model was tested, and it received a Top Safety Pick for 2018.

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Multi-Media Connectivity & In-Car Entertainment

When it comes to the infotainment system, MINI embeds it in a quirky, yet visually-appealing circular dashboard layout. As far as screen sizes go, your STANDARD screen is 6.5-inches (which is quite small by today’s standards)… But, if you’re willing to splurge, MINI offers a more acceptably-sized 8.8-inch interface in higher-end trim levels.

As can be expected from a British/German brand like MINI, entry-level models won’t get you much in terms of interior tech goodies. But, if you’re willing to check a few option boxes, you’ll be relatively pleased by the array of OPTIONAL multimedia goodies available. Some of these OPTIONAL goodies include:

• Apple CarPlay
• Sirius XM radio
• Wireless Smartphone Charging
• Built-in MINI Navigation

Unfortunately, Android Auto is still not available. No matter how much extra money you’re willing to throw towards your new MINI, it won’t be available… Sadly.

But, with that to the side, can we just admire how mesmerizing this view is! Just imagine sitting in this MINI while facing crashing ocean waves? I can seriously smell the sweet air and salty sea. Talk about, “Paradise on wheels!”

Luckily, MINI has you covered in the audio department!

Music aficionados will greatly appreciate the optional 12-speaker High-Definition Harmon Kardon Premium Audio System. Yes! 12 SPEAKERS! That’s a whole lot of speakers for any type of car, let alone a compact two-door car!

And hey! If you’re all about expressing your personality, nothing can match cruising down your favorite beach coastline (top-down in a MINI), and blaring the song below. FEELIN’ BLESSED, NEVER STRESSED! ♫

Continue reading to discover our other song selections.