MINI Convertible 2009-2015 Photos, engines & full specs

MINI unveiled the open-top version of the second-generation hatchback at the 2009 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, improving the car that looked similar to its predecessor.

By 2009, after the first generation under BMW's ownership, the British automaker understood better what its customer wanted from the vehicle. And they wanted a cool open-top city vehicle.

As expected, the open-top version of the Mini's second generation shared its front fascia with its hatchback sibling. Even though it looked very similar to its predecessor, all the body panels were new. Its headlights surrounded by chromed rims featured incorporated blinkers. In addition, on the front fenders, a second pair of turn signals increased the car's visibility in traffic. The folding roof was obviously the most significant difference from its three-door cousin. It was power-assisted as standard, and it could retract and close in a mere 15 seconds at speeds of up to 20 mph (32 kph). At the back, the trunk was hinged on its lower side, offering enough room for a pair of flip-flops and a phone charger.

Inside, the automaker said it was enough room for up to four adults. That was an overstatement if any of those adults were taller than 5.6 feet (1.70 m) tall. There was almost no legroom for the rear passengers. But, at least all four side windows could roll down from the buttons placed on the lower side of the center stack, right under the HVAC control panel. The "Big-Ben" speedometer placed in the middle was easy to see by all passengers aboard. At the same time, the tachometer behind the steering wheel could have been read only by the driver.

Under the hood, BMW ditched the Chrysler-sourced 1.6-liter engines and struck a deal with the French carmaker to supply the gasoline powerplants. In addition, the second generation of the MINI, including the convertible, received a turbo-diesel version as well.