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The MINI has proven to be a great success story for BMW, and with an ever-expanding model line-up there is increasingly a MINI for everyone. One gap that has existed until now is a diesel convertible. A few years ago the concept sounded absurd but diesel open-top motoring is here to stay.
The addition of the diesel engine coincides with a refresh that includes subtle interior and exterior changes all designed to improve quality and feel. The MINI remains one of the most desirable compact convertibles so it’s good to see that MINI is determined to keep it fresh and not rest on its laurels.
The new engine is a BMW-sourced 1.6-litre unit which is shared with the Cooper D hatch. It uses all- aluminium construction with common rail direct injection and a turbocharger with variable turbine geometry. The net effect of this is a healthy 114 bhp and a strong 199 lb.ft of torque at 1,750 rpm.
To achieve the excellent fuel consumption the new engine is supported by brake energy regeneration, auto start-stop, a gearshift indicator, electromechanical power steering, an intelligent alternator and a six-speed manual gearbox.
The MINI convertible is a trendy aspirational small ragtop. The fact that it is now available with a diesel engine shows how far diesel technology has come and takes the MINI into new territory with excellent fuel economy and great driveability thanks to plenty of torque. Well worth a look.
Read our full MINI Convertible review
