Despite the dodgy weather here in the UK, the collective British yearning for sunshine makes Blighty one of the biggest markets in the world for convertibles. And when it comes to the MINI Convertible, it’s not just a car for days out and holidays—it’s based on the MINI 3-Door Hatch, making it an eminent choice as an everyday car, too.

The Convertible has a staggering 10 trim levels, meaning you can keep things relatively low-cost by opting for the entry-level Cooper. Or if you want to splash out, it’s well worth checking out the nippy 230bhp John Cooper Works (JCW) model. And no matter what trim you opt for, there’s a raft of options to tailor your level of luxury as well. But before we delve too deeply into the MINI Convertible, let’s check in with its key stats.

Equipment, options and extras

Every MINI Convertible comes with a USB socket, Android Auto, a DAB radio, and Apple CarPlay smartphone mirroring as standard, not to mention a 9in colour infotainment screen with Bluetooth. The infotainment system is operated using a rotary controller behind the gearstick, complete with responsive and easy-to-use shortcut buttons for frequently used functions.

In terms of trim levels, the Convertible falls in line with its cousin the 3-Door Hatch, with a choice of Classic, Sport, Exclusive and Resolute Edition. With Classic you get LED headlights, rear parking sensors and a powered hood. Sport adds styling features and adaptive suspension, although it’s worth noting that MINIs are firm and resilient even without adaptive suspension. Exclusive is the same price as Sport, but instead of sporty features has leather seats and chrome highlights for a more luxurious feel. Upgrading to the JCW version (or speccing the optional Premium Plus Pack) introduces sports suspension, cosmetic enhancements, wireless phone charging, the MINI Head-up display, built-in satnav with live traffic, and an upgraded Harman Kardon stereo system. Of course either is a pricey upgrade, but it does give you one of the finest infotainment systems in the class.

Costs, insurance groups, mpg and CO2

The MINI Convertible offers a choice of three petrol engines, and our pick of the bunch—perhaps surprisingly—is the cheapest. The Cooper’s 1.5L is one of the best three-cylinder engines on the market—extremely smooth, and with a turbocharger to help pull with gusto from low revs.

For those seeking a little more oomph, there’s a couple of 2L four-cylinder engines. The 176bhp Cooper S does 0–62 in under 7s, while the JCW version delivers proper hot hatch performance: 228bhp, and a 0–62 of 6.5s.

The Convertible is one of the cheapest four-seat droptops available, undercut only by its rival the Fiat 500C. Even better, it’s predicted to depreciate more slowly than the 500C, so if you opt for monthly PCP finance payments you should find something competitive. There are often discounts available too.

The Car Planet verdict

The MINI Convertible is a rewarding drive, boasting an array of smooth engines and an unapologetic open-air exuberance, topped off with terrific interiors and sensible running costs.

Car Planet are experts in used cars in Watford and Hertfordshire. Our virtual viewings mean you can check out a car from the comfort of your own home, or you can come in and view our cars in person. Every car goes through a thorough 150-point check to ensure it’s totally roadworthy. We’re transparent, too: we always display the details of a car’s imperfections. We care about sustainability, which is why we plant a tree for every car we sell, and we provide a 7-day money-back guarantee to any customer who isn’t absolutely satisfied with our service. With our competitive finance deals and part exchanges, you’re sure to find what you need, so check out our selection of secondhand MINI Convertibles today and let’s get the ball rolling!