New Mini drop-top joins the third-generation Mini range; will be showcased at Tokyo Motor Show 2015.
Official photos of the new Mini convertible have been released ahead of its scheduled unveil at the upcoming Tokyo Motor Show 2015.
The new Mini convertible is larger and more comprehensively equipped third generation of the modern-day Convertible is the latest of four models to join the current Mini line-up globally, following on from the three-door hatchback, five-door hatchback and recently introduced Clubman.
It gets fresh styling, in-line with the latest generation Mini’s which come with an overall more mature appearance. Included is more distinctive front end featuring a larger single-frame grille and altered headlamps, added structure within the front wheelarches and lower section of the doors, a more heavily raked windscreen, larger tail-lamps and wider boot.
Mirroring the dimensions of its three-door hatch sibling, the new Convertible is 98mm longer, 44mm wider and 7mm higher than its predecessor at 3821mm, 1727mm and 1415mm respectively. The new car receives a heavily revised automatic cloth hood that is claimed to open or close in 18 seconds at the press of button at speeds of up to 19mph. As before, the multi-layer structure folds and stows in an exposed position above the boot. Safety enhancements include a single-piece roll bar that extends from behind the rear seats when sensors detect a possible rollover.
The adoption of parent company BMW’s new high-strength steel UKL platform structure results in a 28mm increase in wheelbase, along with track widths that are up by 42mm at the front and 34mm at the rear – all of which helps to provide added interior accommodation. Mini says the new structure provides added rigidity and stiffness compared with that of the previous Convertible in a move claimed to reduce scuttle shake and improve handling. The use of reinforcing structural elements and other stiffening measures within the floorpan and bulkheads has led to a 115kg increase in weight over the three-door hatch at 1275kg for the Cooper S.
The larger external dimensions are reflected within the interior. The front seats receive added longitudinal adjustment, the width of the rear seats has increased by 34mm at shoulder height and by 112mm in the elbow area, and there's an added 36mm of rear leg room. Luggage capacity is 215 litres with the hood up - 35 litres more than before. With the hood stowed, boot space is reduced to 160 litres. The rear seats receive standard split-folding backrests and an 8mm wider through-loading facility for easier stowage of longer items.
Among the standard equipment on most models will be a 6.5in multimedia screen, Bluetooth connectivity with a USB audio connection, rear parking distance control and a reversing camera.
The new Mini Convertible will be available globally with a choice of three engines: a 134bhp 1.5-litre three-cylinder petrol unit in the Cooper, a 189bhp 2.0-litre petrol four in the Cooper S and a 114bhp 1.5-litre three-cylinder diesel in the Cooper D. Other powerplants, including a base 101bhp 1.2-litre petrol triple in the One and a 168bhp 2.0-litre diesel in the Cooper SD, are planned to be added later on. Gearbox choices include a standard six-speed manual and optional six-speed automatic – the latter available with steering wheel-mounted shift paddles. An electronic differential lock along with Dynamic Stability Control and traction control are included on all models as standard.
Mini India currently sells the latest-generation Mini hatchback in both three and five-door forms. There is no news of the drop-top Mini to reach our shores anytime soon.
Courtesy : Autocar