New 2016 MINI Convertible F57 launched at Tokyo Motor Show

Kuala Lumpur: The New MINI Cooper Convertible (code named the F57) launched ahead of its public debut at the forthcoming Tokyo Motor Show. Based on the 3rd Generation hatch, the new Convertible keeps up all the spoils of the latest F56 MINI, with the prominent and the only modification being its chopped- off solid roof, in favor of a fabric one that folds neatly behind the rear passenger seats.

Excluding the missing hardtop, in the 3 Door F56 MINI hatch- as specified, all the spoils are regarded for, counting the new front Grille design, new headlamps and taillights, larger overall dimensions, improved tech and features. Though there is a new 'Caribbean Aqua' paint option.

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Additionally, when it appeared back in 2014 the 3rd generation MINI did seem to grow in size, which means the new Convertible is identically larger than its R57 predecessor.

The ride on the new UKL 1 architecture, the new MINI Convertible is 44 mm wider , 98 mm longer, and just 1mm taller than the earlier Convertible- that's 1,727 mm wide, 3,821 mm long and 1,415 mm tall. Its wheelbase has grown by 28mm, while the front back width has been widened by 42mm, with the rear track widened by a further 34 mm.

Increment in the size also refers that on top has marginally larger cabin to boast, the new MINI Convertible also possess larger luggage space in comparison to the earlier one- 25% more, precisely. With the top opened and sun beams shining in, there is still 160 litres of space in the boot, while with the fabric roof back in its natural closed position, there is 215 litres of usable space.

The standard MINI Cooper Convertible trim includes a rear backrest with a split folding, enlarged through-loading capacity, and an Easy Load function.

MINI also notifies us that it has been comprised with a new, more silent roof opening and closing mechanism, which the user will be able to test at speeds up to 30 km/h, taking just 18 seconds to either open or close.

In the MINI Convertible, the Powertrain options are just as the regular hatch. At the launch, there will be two petrol versions, while Europe gets a further diesel option. The base Cooper Convertible will be equipped with 136 hp 1.5-litre three-cylinder turbo, while the hotter Cooper S gets the 192 hp 2.0-litre four-pot turbo. The sole diesel option currently brought up by the Cooper D gets a 116 hp, three-cylinder turbo-diesel.

No amazement for transmission options either, with a 6-speed manual offered as standard in the US and Europe, while a 6-speed Steptronic torque converter automatic with paddle shifters is available as optional.

Similarly, all the gadgetry accessible to the hardtop hatch F56 is also existent and accounted for in the Convertible model, including options for having the Dynamic Damper Control (adaptive suspension), a Parking Assistant, a Driving Assistant with camera-based active cruise control, MINI Connected in-car infotainment program, an 8.8-inch display screen with navigation system Professional with MINI Touch Controller, MINI Head-Up Display, and more.

The come back of the “Always Open Timer” is Unique to the Convertible here that has been upgraded with new display content to assist user to calculate how long the car has been driven with its roof opened.

In March 2016, The MINI Cooper Convertible will make its market debut, but will first come into sight publicly at the coming Tokyo Motor Show.