2019 MINI Convertible Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?

In the eyes of some people, the 2019 MINI Convertible remains one of the most entertaining warm-weather cars on the market. Drivers love this drop-top’s sporty performance and throwback styling. Good gas mileage also makes the 2019 MINI Convertible an efficient daily-driver. If you want to give your ride a personal touch, MINI offers a number of custom upgrades. While this cool European convertible may have a lot of adoring qualities, it’s not perfect. Should you considering buying one?

What’s New for 2019?

To make this convertible more appealing, MINI has updated its infotainment system. Apple CarPlay is also now available as an option. Furthermore, a few new trims have hit the lineup.

 

Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2019 MINI Convertible – The Pros

1. Punchy Turbo Power

Although the 2019 MINI Convertible can’t compete with a Lamborghini or Ferrari sports car, it’s almost just as fun to drive. You’ll enjoy this subcompact’s punchy acceleration. MINI gives you three turbocharged engines to pick from. Rated to develop 134 horsepower, the base three-cylinder should satisfy most people. Drivers will appreciate the Convertible’s impressive passing power. However, stepping up to the 189-horsepower four-cylinder lowers the convertible’s 0-60 time to around 6.7 seconds.

2. Sports-Tuned John Copper Works

Atop the performance ladder sits the sports-tuned John Copper Works edition. It’ll appeal to the drivers who demand more thrills. Powering the John Cooper Works version is BMW’s popular 2.0L TwinPower Turbo Engine. With an estimated 228 horsepower resting under the hood, this high-output variant is by far the quickest model in the lineup. A tested 0-60 time of 6.1 seconds proves the John Copper Works model can deliver plenty of performance.

3. Good on Gas

The 2019 MINI convertible is quite economical for a sporty car. Although MINI recommends the use of premium unleaded, good gas mileage helps you to make fewer trips to the pump. Base Cooper models equipped with a manual transmission can deliver a combined 32 mpg. Opting for the automatic gearbox lowers fuel economy to a combined 30 mpg. Although the more powerful versions sip more fuel, they are still reasonably efficient.

4. A High Fun Factor

You should find the 2019 MINI Convertible to be a bundle of fun. It’s a car that you won’t grow tired of driving during the summer. While drivers enjoy the MINI Convertible’s lively acceleration, you’ll find its handling to be even more impressive. The MINI Convertible’s quick reflexes enable you to change directions with ease. An available sports-tuned suspension and performance tires help it to better stick to the road. Drivers can activate the sport mode by simply flipping a switch.

5. Retro Styling Can be Customized

Although the MINI Convertible looks modern, you can’t overlook its retro styling. Round headlights and a classic body style pay homage to the original MINI. A hood scoop comes equipped on the S and John Copper Works models. You can also take advantage of the available customizations. Front fender trim, upgraded wheels, and racing stripes are all available. You will also have some breathtaking paint options to choose from, including Volcanic Orange and Caribbean Aqua Metallic.

6. Ability to Ride With the Top Down

One of this car’s best features is its convertible roof. When the weather is nice outside, the 2019 MINI convertible becomes especially entertaining to ride. Whether you’re cruising along the coastline or taking a trip to the mountains, you can expect to have a blast with the top down. It only takes less than 30 seconds for you to lower the power top. An interior toggle switch makes the entire process a breeze.

7. Underrated Level of Comfort

There’s no denying the fact that the 2019 MINI Convertible is a very small car. Nevertheless, it manages to deliver an unexpected degree of comfort. Good room in the front enables tall folks to ride without bumping their knees. You can also take advantage of the telescoping steering wheel, which helps ensure a great driving position. Most people will also find the front seats to be supportive enough for long journeys.

8. Good BMW Infotainment System

The MINI Convertible’s infotainment system is based off BMW’s highly regarded iDrive interface. Although the system may seem complicated at first, it’ll become easy to use over time. A control knob enables you to quickly select apps from the screen. Drivers also enjoy the interface’s vibrate graphics. Buyers can upgrade to an 8.8-inch touchscreen with navigation. If you want to give the entire interior a more upbeat vibe, opt for the colorful LED lights that surround the display.

9. Some Safety Technologies Available

Folks seeking more security on the road will benefit from the optional driving aids. While forward collision warning helps you to dodge fast-approaching danger, adaptive cruise control allows you to relax more on the highway. Parking sensors and automatic high-beam control are offered as well.

10. 12-speaker Harman Kardon Audio System

Once you’ve experienced the premium Harman Kardon audio system, the standard sound system will be far less satisfying. It comes with a total of 12 speakers, which are powered by a 360-watt amplifier. You’ll enjoy the thunderous bass lines and distortion-free high notes. True music fans shouldn’t hesitate to spend the extra money.

Reasons Not to Buy a 2019 MINI Convertible – The Cons

1. Some Models Are a Bit Pricey

The 2019 MINI Convertible has an MSRP of just less $27,000, which isn’t bad for a drop-top car. However, adding optional equipment will quickly cause the cost to climb. Prices for the John Cooper Works model start at around $37,000. For this price, you can get a better equipped Ford Mustang Convertible.

2. Not the Softest Ride

Don’t expect the MINI Convertible to ride like a limousine. Because of this convertible’s sporty design, it rides a bit stiffer than normal. If you get the 17-inch wheel package, the ride will be even rougher on certain road surfaces. Drivers seeking the utmost comfort should stick with the base Cooper model. Although the more powerful John Copper Works model comes equipped with a sport suspension, MINI allows you to revert to the standard suspension for no extra cost.

3. Okay Manual Transmission

Many driving enthusiasts will be interested in the MINI Convertible’s six-speed manual transmission. However, it’s not the easiest manual to use for first-timers. During your initial test drive, you will notice the unique design of the manual’s shift gate. Even experienced stick-shift drivers may need a bit of practice.

4. Not Great for the Winter

To no surprise, the 2019 MINI Convertible isn’t an ideal winter car. Its soft top doesn’t provide as much insulation as a hard top. Furthermore, an AWD system isn’t available for the MINI Convertible. Expect this low-slung car to struggle in the snow.

5. Virtually No Backseat Space

Although the MINI convertible has a backseat, it’s not very useful for carrying passengers. Only kids will mind sitting in the back for long periods of time. Most drivers will use the rear seat as a place to toss their extra stuff. If you need more space for your friends, take a look at the 2019 Buick Cascada.

How It Stacks Up to the Competition

When shopping for a new convertible, the new 2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata may catch your attention. A new, more powerful SKYACTIV engine enables the Miata to keep pace with all versions of the 2019 MINI Convertible. You can also get the MX-5 Miata with a retractable hardtop. Unfortunately, only two people can fit inside the MX-5 Miata.

You should definitely check out the new 2019 Audi A3 convertible. In terms of driving fun, the MINI Convertible and the Audi A3 are neck and neck. However, an available AWD system gives the A3 a big advantage. Some drivers may find the MINI Convertible’s retro styling to be more appealing.

The 2019 Ford Mustang is yet another popular convertible. It allows you to choose from a turbocharged four-cylinder and a monstrous V-8 engine. A lot more technology is available for the 2019 Ford Mustang Convertible.

Conclusion

If you love the sensation of driving a drop-top car, the 2019 MINI Convertible deserves a thought. It’s quick, agile, and quite good on gas. Its retro styling also makes a powerful statement. Before you head out to buy a new 2019 MINI Convertible, be aware of its tiny backseat and firm ride. Furthermore, adding options may push the MINI Convertible out of your price range. Android Auto smartphone integration is still not offered.