The lid comes off MINI’s Roadster

SUMMER’S coming… well, eventually, and MINI is preparing by bringing out a convertible version of its Roadster.
Smiles seem guaranteed as the two-seater winds its way along country lanes — top up or top down. The MINI Roadster is the sixth model in the range and the first open top twin-seater it has made. Sporty engines and a top class chassis designed to make the best of each model in the range, make sure the MINI gives lots of driving pleasure.
The soft-top roof can be opened and closed quickly and easily (probably a good thing with our variable weather) so as soon as the sun comes out, the roof can go down. The Roadster has a pair of rollover bars behind the seats to ensure the car’s occupants are carried around safely. The ca offers 240 litres of luggage space and the wide through-loading facility into the passenger compartment provides an additional dose of practicality.
The faithful reproduction of the hallmark MINI design language within the proportions of a roadster gives the open-top two-seater an unmistakable and irresistible charisma. Even with the roof closed the MINI Roadster displays an elegant, sweeping silhouette, with the transition from soft-top to rear end highlighting its characteristic three-box design particularly clearly. Characteristic MINI design features leave little doubt as to the brand identity of the new model.
The Roadster will be available with a choice of four powerful — yet also highly efficient — petrol and diesel engines from launch. The model line-up ranges from the MINI Cooper Roadster (90 kW/122 hp), via the MINI Cooper SD Roadster (105 kW/143 hp) and MINI Cooper S Roadster (135 kW/184 hp), to the sharpest performer of all, the 155 kW/211 hp
And for added fun, there is the John Cooper Works Roadster. Teaming up with the powerful engines and customary MINI front-wheel drive, chassis technology of a quality unparalleled in the small car segment and tuned specially for the MINI Roadster imbues the new model with the brand’s hallmark driving fun. Electric Power Steering with speed-sensitive power assistance comes as standard, as does DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), while Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) with Electronic Differential Lock Control (EDLC) — standard on the MINI John Cooper Works Roadster, optional on all other models — adds even greater assurance on slippery surfaces and additional sports performance under dynamic cornering.
A torsionally rigid body (complete with special strengthening elements) and  low centre of gravity enhance both the handling agility and safety of the MINI Roadster. Meanwhile, front and head-thorax airbags, an extremely rigid windscreen frame and polished stainless steel roll-over bars fixed to the body join forces in the name of occupant protection. The aerodynamic balance of the MINI Roadster is optimised by an active rear spoiler, which extends automatically once the car reaches a speed of 80 km/h (50 mph).
The Roadster underlines its premium character with a high-quality range of standard equipment, including air conditioning (Cooper S Roadster, Cooper SD Roadster,  John Cooper Works Roadster), electrically adjustable exterior mirrors, Park Distance Control, height-adjustable seats and an audio system with MP3-compatible CD player and AUX IN connection. Levels of comfort and individuality can be further enhanced by specifying attractive options such as xenon Adaptive Headlights, black headlight housing, Comfort Access and the Always Open Timer. And the MINI Roadster also offers in-car use of innovative MINI Connected infotainment and communications functions.