Los Angeles, USA – Well, that’s not quite true, since the MINI of today has really grown with each successive generation. More importantly, the engineers are particularly proud of the fact that under the skin, the Convertible is jam-packed with big-car refinements.

Our test-car’s Caribbean Aqua is a new metallic colour for the convertible, and catches its fair share of attention when we drove from LA’s Koreatown to our lunch stop at The Sunset in Malibu. The other colour choice looks more subdued, but that car’s roof features an example of the MINI Yours personalisation programme: a woven Union Jack graphic fills all available roof space. No, unfortunately you can’t have it in your country of choice, which some might also find quite ironic considering MINI is more German these days than British…

The textile rag-top is now full electric and works soundlessly and seamlessly; it takes just 18 seconds and will operate at speeds of up to 30km/h. As if to demonstrate the Cooper S’s dynamic prowess, part of our road-test takes us through the snaking Mulholland Highway, so we have ample opportunity to wind up the turbocharged two-litre, a task made pleasurable with its fruity exhaust soundtrack.

We were three-up in the car, including ‘mini’ me (the other two were more 5’8”), but the accommodation was adequate enough to pack everyone in without the chap in the rear suffering severe discomfort. The ride is firm though, but you’ll feel every inch of the road in the rear as well, so best to let that heavy meal digest before going on a long road trip. Ride, fit/finish, NVH and torsional rigidity are nicely-sorted for the Cooper S Convertible to deliver a cossetting yet sporty experience regardless of how you choose to drive it.

Unlike many modern sportscars, you can safely reach the MINI’s limits on the winding roads without fear of the law or outpacing your own abilities. There’s renewed confidence thanks to its newfound structural rigidity, best of all there’s no discernible scuttle-shake either, which tends to be typical of such cars. However, as with all good things in small packages, such refinement will come at a price. – Story David Khoo / Photos BMW

MINI Cooper S Convertible
Engine 1,998cc, 16V, inline 4, turbocharged
Power 192bhp at 5000-6000rpm
Torque 280Nm at 1250-4600rpm
Gearbox 6-speed automatic
Top Speed 228km/h
0-100km/h 7.1 seconds
Fuel efficiency 5.8L/100km
CO2 134g/km
Price POA
Availability TBA