(continued from above)
Powerful engines and sophisticated chassis technology with model-specific
tuning see to it that the characteristic MINI go-kart feeling is always on tap.
And the MINI Roadster's classical soft-top roof, which can be easily opened and
closed manually, ensures open-top driving pleasure can be lapped up at every
opportunity.
The faithful reproduction of the hallmark MINI design language within the
proportions of a roadster gives the first open-top two-seater in the history of
MINI 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. This layout encompasses a clear visual separation of the
car's boot (capacity: 240 liters) from the passenger compartment, while a wide
through-loading system behind the seats enhances practicality.
The MINI Roadster will be available with a choice of four powerful yet also
efficient petrol and diesel engines from launch. The model line-up ranges from
the MINI Cooper Roadster (122 hp), via the MINI Cooper SD Roadster (143 hp) and
MINI Cooper S Roadster (184 hp), to the sharpest performer of all, the 211 hp
MINI John Cooper Works Roadster. A quality of chassis technology unparalleled in
the small car segment, including Electric Power Steering and Dynamic Stability
Control (DSC), combines with the torsionally rigid body (complete with special
strengthening elements) and the car's lower center of gravity to deliver
addictive agility and unbeatable active and passive safety. 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 optimized by an
active rear spoiler.
The MINI Roadster underlines its premium character with a high-quality range of
standard equipment, including air conditioning (MINI Cooper S Roadster, MINI
Cooper SD Roadster, MINI John Cooper Works Roadster), speedsensitive steering
assistance, 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.
The Roadster, MINI-Style
The MINI Roadster is not only the sole premium model of its kind in the small
car segment, it also ranks as the only open-top two-seater in the brand's
history. The principles of the MINI design language are faithfully reflected in
the body design of the new concept. For example, the athletically taut surfaces,
harmonious curves and parallel lines typical of MINI cars are complemented by a
sloping windscreen frame raked by an extra 13 degrees over the MINI Convertible,
a short passenger compartment distilled around two seats, and a flat boot lid. A
waistline rising up slightly along the length of the body to the clearly stepped
boot and the deliberately low-slung silhouette - even with the roof closed -
give the MINI Roadster an elegantly stretched appearance. At the same time, the
new model wears its brand identity on its sleeve thanks to unmistakable design
features like the hexagonal contours of its radiator grille, the black border
around the lower part of the body, chrome trim strips and surrounds, large
circular headlights, vertically stacked rear lights positioned on the outer
extremes of the rear end, and the eye-catching surrounds of the side indicators
on the front side panels.
The new two-seater cuts a distinctive, low-slung and elegantly stretched figure
from the side. A windscreen frame that is more heavily raked and tapers upwards
more sharply than that of the MINI Convertible also gives it a clearly
distinguishable appearance when viewed head-on.
MINI John Cooper Works Roadster: Review (2/2)
