Energetic engines and lively handling make the 2019 Mini Convertible one of the most enjoyable drop-tops to drive. Factor in a classy interior, retro charm, and endless possibilities for personalization and the Mini Convertible turns into being a particularly distinctive one as well.

The Mini Convertible is an exceptionally fun car to drive, whether it's powered by the base three-cylinder engine, the 189-hp midlevel engine, or the highly caffeinated 228-hp turbo four-cylinder in the John Cooper Works trim. The Mini always feels playful and engaging, its tires firmly embedded in the asphalt.

The Mini's extensive paint, interior and performance combinations are what truly set it apart, giving owners a degree of personalization that you'd otherwise associate with luxury brands such as Bentley. Want 18-inch wheels, an illuminating dashboard trim and a Union Jack design stitched into the seat headrests? Done. But there's a catch: The car is also pricier than its rivals. The convertible's base price is just a starting point for a bottomless options list, and the price can escalate with shocking quickness. (Lest we forget, Mini is owned by BMW and follows similar wallet-busting options strategies.)

While no other small convertible can match the Mini's level of customization, there are others worth considering, notably the Mazda MX-5 Miata, the Fiat 124 Spider, and even the Volkswagen Beetle convertible. But even among this group, the Mini Convertible's charm and likability stand out. It's that good.

2019 MINI Convertible configurations

The 2019 Mini Convertible is a compact convertible that seats four and is available in base Cooper, Cooper S and high-performance John Cooper Works trims. The base Cooper trim serves as a great starting point for customization, but the attractive base price can escalate quickly with desirable options. The Cooper S adds larger wheels and more power and performance, while the John Cooper Works is the highest performer of the bunch, with a cranked-up turbo engine and sophisticated sport suspension.

This year, Mini is also offering three subtrim levels (Classic, Signature and Iconic) that add an increasing number of features. A wide variety of styling, performance and luxury upgrades are available on most versions.

The Cooper starts with a turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine (134 horsepower, 162 pound-feet of torque) paired with a six-speed manual transmission and front-wheel drive. A six-speed automatic transmission is optional.

Standard features for the starter Classic subtrim include a power-operated fabric convertible roof (which functions like a sunroof), 15-inch alloy wheels, an electronic limited-slip differential, automatic headlights and wipers, heated mirrors, push-button ignition, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a cooled glovebox, cruise control, premium vinyl upholstery, and 50/50-split folding rear seatbacks.

Technology highlights include a rearview camera, rear parking sensors, Bluetooth connectivity, smartphone app integration, a 6.5-inch display screen, and a six-speaker sound system with HD radio, a USB port and an auxiliary input jack.

The Cooper S adds a more powerful turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (189 hp, 207 lb-ft of torque), a hood scoop, dual center-mounted exhaust tips, 16-inch wheels with run-flat tires (regular tires are optional), LED foglights and sport front seats.

The John Cooper Works trim ratchets up the performance index with a hotter turbo four-cylinder engine (228 hp, 236 lb-ft), 17-inch wheels, a sport-tuned suspension, LED headlights, an aerodynamic body kit, a rear spoiler, a sport steering wheel and special seats with cloth upholstery. The standard suspension is available as a no-cost option for the JCW.

Features added by the Signature subtrim differ slightly from the base Cooper, S and JCW. But in general, it adds keyless entry, heated front seats and dual-zone automatic climate control. Cooper models get 16-inch wheels, Cooper S versions get 16- or 17-inch wheels, and JCW models get adaptive dampers. Mini's Active Driving Assistant suite of safety features — forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control and automatic high-beam control — is also included on Cooper S and JCW models. Selecting the Signature trim also opens the door to additional paint choices, interior dashboard appliques and upholstery choices.

The Signature's Premium package further adds power-folding mirrors, auto-dimming interior and exterior mirrors, chrome exterior trim, LED headlights and foglights, cornering lights, satellite radio and a 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system.

The Iconic trim includes those upgrades, plus leather upholstery, a navigation system, the Active Driving Assistant package, wireless charging, Apple CarPlay and an 8.8-inch touchscreen.

Many of the above options can be ordered separately, as can various exterior and interior styling modifications. A Driver Assistance package for the Iconic trim adds front parking sensors and an automated parallel parking system.

Trim tested

Each vehicle typically comes in multiple versions that are fundamentally similar. The ratings in this review are based on our full test of the Mini Cooper S Convertible (turbo 2.0L inline-4 | 6-speed manual | FWD).

NOTE: Since this test was conducted in 2016, the current Mini Convertible has received some revisions, including standard rear parking sensors and a standard rearview camera. Our findings remain broadly applicable to this year's Mini Convertible

Driving

8.0

The turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine might not boast impressive stats on paper, but the Mini's relatively light weight makes it feel quick. There's not much body roll, and you can chuck it around tight turns in classic Mini fashion.

Acceleration

7.0

Since peak torque output occurs very low in the rev range, the Cooper S always feels like a quick squeeze of the gas is all you need to shoot through a gap or overtake on the highway. It feels stronger than our so-so 0-60 mph track time of 6.8 seconds, which was limited by traction issues.

Braking

9.0

The Cooper slows smoothly thanks to a predictable and progressive brake pedal. Our simulated-panic stop from 60 mph netted a remarkably short stopping distance of 101 feet. That's a similar distance to results from true sports cars such as the Porsche Boxster S.

Steering

7.5

The steering effort is light in Normal drive mode, graduating to a heavier weight in Sport mode. The steering response is quick and direct, which is great in parking lots and tight corners alike. But those quick responses do make the Mini feel a bit darty on the highway.

Handling

8.5

This is why you bought a Mini. Its short footprint, quick reflexes and grippy tires make it an absolute joy to toss around a corner. Excellent stability control calibration lets you explore the limits of the Mini's grip before it gently reins you in.

Drivability

7.0

Although it requires a light amount of effort to modulate, the vague clutch makes it somewhat difficult to find the engagement point. The tall shifter is easy to grab, but throws are unusually long and the shift gates aren't well defined.

Comfort

Though no Mini could ever truly be called comfortable, the Cooper S Convertible isn't punishing given its level of performance. Adaptive suspension dampers help smooth out the ride, and there's ample seat cushioning. Great efforts have been made to keep the cabin quiet, even at highway speeds.

Seat comfort

7.5

The wonderfully supportive sport seats offer lumbar and seat-height adjustments, and there's even an extendable thigh cushion. Long-distance trips will be no problem. Larger drivers might feel confined by the narrow side bolsters.

Ride comfort

8.5

The ride in the Cooper S is predictably short-legged and stiff, more so than in the base model. We can forgive the Cooper S somewhat: It is the sportier model and the ride matches its intentions. Caution: It would be even worse if the wheels were larger than our tester's 17-inch alloys.

Noise & vibration

7.5

Lifting off the throttle in Sport mode produces a satisfying burble from the exhaust. There's some wind and tire noise, but the Mini is very quiet for a convertible. We're quite impressed with the near lack of cowl shake on rough roads, a typical convertible drawback.

Climate control

7.0

Dual-zone automatic climate control is standard across the board, and the fans aren't overly loud as they work to keep the cabin at a comfortable temperature. Strangely, temperature adjustments can be made only in 2-degree increments.

Interior

7.0

Its high roof and height-adjustable front seats mean that even taller occupants can fit in the Mini easily — in the front at least, since there's almost no rear legroom. Since you won't be using the back seat much, remove those headrests for a better view out the small rear window.

Ease of use

7.5

The controls are all within the driver's reach, and the instrument panel tilts with the steering wheel so the driver information screen is always visible. The low-mounted infotainment controller is difficult to use, especially with the center armrest obstructing access.

Getting in/getting out

6.5

The doors open wide and the opening is tall and squared off, so most people won't have much trouble getting in or out of the front seats. But those seats don't fold forward much, so getting into the back with the top up is a challenge.

Driving position

8.0

Given the wide range of seat adjustments, it's easy to find a suitable driving position. The steering wheel telescopes a fair amount, and there's plenty of seat travel. Taller drivers won't have headroom issues with the seats lowered to the floor.

Roominess

8.5

As its name suggests, the Mini's cabin is quite compact. There's enough head- and legroom up front for tall occupants to relax without feeling confined, but they will have to cozy up side by side. Rear legroom is nearly nonexistent, so the back is only suitable for small children.

Visibility

6.0

Forward and side visibility is excellent thanks to an upright windshield and tall windows. But the convertible's undersize rear window and visually intrusive backseat headrests limit the view out the back. The top folds into a small hump that also cuts into rear visibility.

Quality

Interior materials are better than what you'll find in other compact cars. There's extensive use of soft-touch plastic, and the leather upholstery feels BMW-grade. But when the Mini Convertible hits bumps, certain elements of the cabin respond with rattles and quakes.

Convertible top

Press and hold the interior toggle switch to fold the Mini's soft top back to a sunroof-size opening. Release and hold again to drop it completely. The folding operation can also be completed with the key fob, but the signal range is short.

Utility

You shouldn't buy a Mini Convertible if practicality is a deciding factor. Storage space in the cabin and trunk is very limited, and even fitting small suitcases will be a challenge with the rear seats up. Maximize your carrying capacity by treating the rear bench as a cargo shelf.

Small-item storage

6.0

The cabin has three cupholders: two in front of the shifter and one between the rear seats. There's not much room in the door pockets, central armrest or glovebox. The dashboard cubby on the hardtop is nonfunctional in the convertible.

Cargo space

The cargo area is very small, with just 7.6 cubic feet of storage space, decreasing to only 5.7 cubic feet when the top is down. The small trunklid folds down to create access, and the rear edge of the soft top can be unlatched and hinged up to increase the size of the opening.

Child safety seat accommodation

5.0

There are two pairs of LATCH anchors in the back row and two hooks on the seatbacks. The anchors are concealed under easily accessible and removable plastic covers. The main difficulty comes with trying to mount or access the car seat if the top is up.

Technology

The central display is accessed primarily through a control knob, which is derived from BMW's iDrive. It's easy to use and features crisp, vibrant graphics. Many now-common safety aids such as blind-spot warning are absent, as is Android Auto integration. (Apple CarPlay is a new addition for 2019.)

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Features & Specs

MSRP

$36,900

MPG

22 city / 31 hwy

Seats 4

6-speed manual

Gas

228 hp @ 5200 rpm

See all 2019 MINI Convertible John Cooper Works features & specs

Safety

Our experts’ favorite Convertible safety features:

Parking Assistant: Finds an available parallel parking spot and guides the Mini into the space with minimal driver input.
Front and Rear Park Distance Control: Sounds an alert as the Mini approaches an object in front of or behind the vehicle.
Active Driving Assistant: Maintains a set distance between the Mini and the vehicle in front while the cruise control system is active.

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The Miata has long been the standard by which small, fun convertibles are measured. It's no racehorse, but the Miata has good midrange power — once it gets up to speed — and its power is very well-balanced with the car's light mass. The combination yields a car that is as fun cruising a coastal highway as it is zipping through some open turns. Its most obvious downside compared to the Mini is that it seats just two passengers.

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The Audi A3 convertible may be the Mini's closest rival, at least in terms of feature set and performance potential. Like the Mini, the A3 offers a delightful blend of balance and sporty handling, along with a zippy turbocharged engine and a refined interior. Neither offers much in the way of cargo or rear passenger space, but the A3 holds the advantage when it comes to infotainment technology and the availability of all-wheel drive.

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Mini Convertible vs. Volkswagen Beetle Convertible

Arguably offering as much charm as the Mini, the Beetle convertible is also a car continuing a beloved lineage in a modern context. Both cars offer snappy performance and decent fuel economy, but your passengers will enjoy more elbow room in the Beetle. But like the Mini, the Beetle suffers from a deficit of interior cargo space and poor sightlines to the rear. The VW's interior isn't quite as savvy as the Mini's either, and the personalization options aren't nearly as broad

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2019 MINI Convertible John Cooper Works for Sale

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More about the 2019 MINI Convertible

2019 MINI Convertible John Cooper Works Overview

The 2019 MINI Convertible John Cooper Works is offered in the following styles: John Cooper Works 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M).

What do people think of the 2019 MINI Convertible John Cooper Works?

Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2019 MINI Convertible John Cooper Works and all its trim types. 0 Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database. Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior, exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2019 Convertible John Cooper Works.

Edmunds Expert Reviews

Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2019 MINI Convertible John Cooper Works and all model years in our database. Our rich analysis includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2019 Convertible John Cooper Works featuring deep dives into trim levels including John Cooper Works, etc. with careful analysis around pricing, features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving and performance. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.

Read our full review of the 2019 MINI Convertible John Cooper Works here.

Edmunds Scorecard

Overall7.4 / 10

Driving

8.0 / 10

Acceleration7.0 / 10

Braking9.0 / 10

Steering7.5 / 10

Handling8.5 / 10

Drivability7.0 / 10

Interior

7.0 / 10

Ease of use7.5 / 10

Getting in/getting out6.5 / 10

Driving position8.0 / 10

Roominess8.5 / 10

Visibility6.0 / 10

Our Review Process

This review was written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.

We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.

What's a good price for a New 2019 MINI Convertible John Cooper Works?

2019 MINI Convertible John Cooper Works John Cooper Works 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)

The 2019 MINI Convertible John Cooper Works John Cooper Works 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $37,750. The average price paid for a new 2019 MINI Convertible John Cooper Works John Cooper Works 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M) is trending $1,140 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.

Edmunds members save an average of $1,140 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$36,610.

The average savings for the 2019 MINI Convertible John Cooper Works John Cooper Works 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M) is3% below the MSRP.

Available Inventory:

We are showing 1 2019 MINI Convertible John Cooper Works John Cooper Works 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.

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2019 MINI Convertible John Cooper Works Listings and Inventory

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Why trust Edmunds?

Edmunds has deep data on over 6 million new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles, including all models of the 2019 MINI Convertible John Cooper Works and all available trim types: John Cooper Works. Rich, trim-level features & specs and options data tracked for the 2019 MINI Convertible John Cooper Works include (but are not limited to): MSRP, available incentives and deals, average price paid, warranty information (basic, drivetrain, and maintenance), features (interior and exterior color, upholstery, bluetooth, navigation, cruise control, parking assistance, lane sensing, keyless ignition, satellite radio, folding rears seats,run flat tires, wheel type, tire size, sunroof, etc.), vehicle specifications (engine cylinder count, drivetrain, engine power, torque, engine displacement, transmission), fuel economy and MPG (city, highway, and combined, fuel capacity, range), vehicle dimensions (interior cabin space, vehicle length and width, seating capacity, cargo space). Edmunds also provides tools to allow shopper to compare vehicles to similar models of their choosing by warranty, interior features, exterior features, specifications, vehicle dimensions, consumer rating, edmunds expert review, safety rating, and color.

Should I lease or buy a 2019 MINI Convertible?

Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.

2019 MINI Convertible John Cooper Works

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2019 MINI Convertible John Cooper Works pricing

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Edmunds' Expert Review

Overall rating

2019 MINI Convertible configurations

Trim tested

Driving

Acceleration

Braking

Steering

Handling

Drivability

Comfort

Seat comfort

Ride comfort

Noise & vibration

Climate control

Interior

Ease of use

Getting in/getting out

Driving position

Roominess

Visibility

Quality

Convertible top

Utility

Small-item storage

Cargo space

Child safety seat accommodation

Technology

Features & Specs

Safety

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Get more for your trade-in

2019 MINI Convertible John Cooper Works Overview

What do people think of the 2019 MINI Convertible John Cooper Works?

Edmunds Expert Reviews

Edmunds Scorecard

Our Review Process

What's a good price for a New 2019 MINI Convertible John Cooper Works?

2019 MINI Convertible John Cooper Works John Cooper Works 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)

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Can't find a new 2019 MINI Convertible Convertible John Cooper Works you want in your area? Consider a broader search.

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Should I lease or buy a 2019 MINI Convertible?

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