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Spyshots: 2015 MINI Cooper S Convertible Winter Testing

This is a MINI, but not just any MINI. This is the third generation of the car every hairdresser wants to own. As you can probably see, it's grown up quite a bit compared to the first model which came out about a decade ago, but the changes aren't just in the centimeters.
2015 MINI Cooper S Convertible 7 photos
Photo: Automedia
2015 MINI Cooper S Convertible2015 MINI Cooper S Convertible2015 MINI Cooper S Convertible2015 MINI Cooper S Convertible2015 MINI Cooper S Convertible2015 MINI Cooper S Convertible
Based on the new UKL1 platform, the all-new MINI is already available as a hatchback, since it entered production late last year. This convertible version should debut this summer, in time to take advantage of the rag-top buying frenzy. Architecturally, the two will be the same

Unlike the old generation, the engines will all be turbocharged. This test prototype is the Cooper S, equipped with a 192 hp 2-liter engine, replacing
the old 1.6-liter turbo and offering more torque. There will also be a Cooper D, which might get the same 150 hp as the updated BMW X models. Lower down the range, both the Cooper (136 hp, up from 122 hp) and Cooper D (116 hp) will use 1.5-liter three-cylinder engines. There should also be a new One Convertible, powered by the new 1.2-liter engine announced for the hatchback.

The interior of MINI Convertible will be entirely new, featuring a light ring that changes color according to the music, a new infotainment system similar to BMW's and a more intuitive, less hip button layout.

So again, this is the Cooper S Convertible we are looking at, a model which we think will be considered a true sportscar and not just a poser. 0 to 100 km/h will be dealt with in just 7 seconds, about as fast as any hot hatch in the subcompact class. More important than pure acceleration numbers are the changes BMW is making to the suspension and steering to ensure the disconnected feel of the much-criticized R56 will be completely eliminated.

We think most people who will be able to spend upwards of €30,000 to spec this car will welcome the vastly improved six-speed automatic.
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About the author: Mihnea Radu
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Mihnea's favorite cars have already been built, the so-called modern classics from the '80s and '90s. He also loves local car culture from all over the world, so don't be surprised to see him getting excited about weird Japanese imports, low-rider VWs out of Germany, replicas from Russia or LS swaps down in Florida.
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