MINI Roadster Returns in New Official Video
MINI releases a new video featuring the Roadster, highlighting its performance and design following its Detroit debut and ahead of a possible Geneva appearance.
MINI has published a new official video showcasing the Roadster, its compact two-seat convertible, following the car’s public debut at the Detroit Motor Show in January 2012. The video puts the spotlight on the Roadster’s open-top driving and distinctive styling, as the model prepares for further appearances, including a likely showing at the Geneva Motor Show.
The Roadster joins MINI’s range as a dedicated two-seater, sharing its mechanical base with the MINI Coupe but adding a manually operated soft top. The video emphasises the car’s stainless steel roll-over bar and the active rear spoiler, which deploys automatically at 80 km/h to aid stability. These features set the Roadster apart from the standard MINI Convertible and align it closely with the Coupe’s sporting intent.
Engine options and performance
MINI offers the Roadster with a range of 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol engines. The entry-level Cooper Roadster produces 122 hp at 6,000 rpm and 118 lb-ft of torque at 4,250 rpm, giving a claimed 0-62 mph time of 9.2 seconds and a top speed of 124 mph. The Cooper S Roadster uses a turbocharged version of the same engine, delivering 184 hp and 177 lb-ft, while the flagship John Cooper Works (JCW) variant is tuned to 211 hp and 192 lb-ft. The JCW Roadster is the quickest in the line-up, with a 0-62 mph time of 6.5 seconds and a maximum speed of 147 mph.
| Cooper Roadster | 122 hp, 0-62 mph in 9.2s, 124 mph top speed |
|---|---|
| Cooper S Roadster | 184 hp, 0-62 mph in 7.0s, 141 mph top speed |
| JCW Roadster | 211 hp, 0-62 mph in 6.5s, 147 mph top speed |
All versions are front-wheel drive and feature a six-speed manual gearbox as standard. The Roadster’s chassis setup is tuned for agility, with a low centre of gravity and short wheelbase, in keeping with MINI’s reputation for sharp handling. The new video highlights these traits, with footage of the Roadster on winding roads and urban settings.
Market positioning and upcoming events
MINI positions the Roadster as a more focused, driver-oriented alternative to the standard Convertible, targeting buyers who prioritise style and handling over rear-seat practicality. With its official launch already completed in Detroit, the brand is expected to present the Roadster at the Geneva Motor Show as well, aiming to attract European customers. Pricing for the Roadster varies by market, with the entry-level version starting from just under €24,000 in some European countries.
