Mini removes the roof from its sporty John Cooper Works mannequin as soon as once more within the new technology – a minimum of for the combustion engine. With 231 PS and a high velocity of 250 km/h, it earns loads of admiring glances and, when desired, a storm-tossed coiffure of the best type.
Mini goes electrical? Not solely. Whereas the electrical fashions, following latest tariff problems with China, can not be exported to each nook of the world, the combustion engine fashions – nonetheless constructed within the Oxford plant – retain central significance. Does a cabriolet with an electrical motor convey pleasure, or are these feelings, vibrations and sounds that make open-air driving so memorable lacking? At the very least with Mini, you don’t need to ask that query for now, because the earlier technology was accessible in restricted numbers as an EV, however that’s not the case for the brand new Mini.
For many who discover the open variations of the Mini Cooper C and Cooper S missing, there’s nonetheless the fiery dice of energy – the John Cooper Works turns it up a notch. On paper or display, 170 kW / 231 PS won’t sound particularly dramatic, however from behind the grippy steering wheel of the game model, the JCW Cabrio – priced from a minimum of €44,650 – makes no secret of its severe dynamic intent. The suspension is agency however not uncomfortably onerous, the steering is properly weighted and affords good suggestions. On winding nation roads, the seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox is pleased to stretch its legs by way of paddle shifters, whereas the 380 Nm of torque makes its presence felt via the steering wheel. However let’s be trustworthy – isn’t that usually Mini? A bit wild, a bit unrefined, with out being annoying. The superb driving really feel advantages from the low centre of gravity and sensible 18-inch wheels with 215/40 R 18 tyres.
The turbocharged two-litre four-cylinder from the BMW engine household packs loads of punch. From a standstill, the open-top Mini John Cooper Works Cabriolet storms eagerly in direction of 100 km/h in somewhat over six seconds. Whereas the electrical sibling tops out at a modest 200 km/h, the JCW Cabrio effortlessly reaches 250 km/h on the autobahn’s left lane. And from round 160 km/h upwards, any rigorously organized coiffure is quickly historical past – rising wilder with each passing kilometre as seen within the rear-view mirror. For many who favor to take care of their hairstyle whereas nonetheless having fun with contemporary air, the comfortable high’s sliding roof perform permits the material roof to retract the primary 40 centimetres – good for winter or gentle cabriolet vibes.
The tight-fitting cloth roof of the Mini Cabrio is intelligent. It might open or shut even whereas driving slowly, providing a small hatch above the entrance seats, and it will also be tilted on the rear. This enables the small boot lid to open wider, with the material roof and rear window lifting barely upwards. It doesn’t sound like a lot, nevertheless it’s a giant assist when attempting to load suitcases or journey luggage into the 160-litre boot. Extra typically, the rear seats could also be used for coats or small luggage, as rear legroom is extraordinarily restricted – although passengers within the again are positive to get pleasure from that full-on wind-in-the-hair expertise.
The inside is an identical to that of the hardtop Mini John Cooper Works Hatch. Lacking are the elegant leather-trimmed sports activities seats with extendable thigh helps. The brand new seats, completed in fake leather-based and cloth, don’t really feel as premium however provide good lateral assist and long-distance consolation, even for tall occupants. As prospects demand extra consolation, electrical seat adjustment and therapeutic massage capabilities are additionally accessible. Sadly, the crisp round central show on the dashboard is let down by the flimsy plastic flip-up head-up show. As an alternative, the motive force is left to stare upon illuminated cloth inserts.
