One of the more unique parts of the MINI stable, the soft top MINI Cooper D convertible is recommended if you want to save on your mileage and emissions, while still benefiting from a high performance car. The MINI Cooper D still delivers the go kart like handling of the MINI Hatch and Clubman, but with the option to lower the hood and enjoy the occasional warmer weather spell. The MINI Cooper D is particularly effective at bringing some economy to your driving style.
The Cooper D comes with a 1.6 litre four cylinder 1598 cc diesel engine – this engine provides 70.6 mpg, and a CO2 emission rate of just 105 g/km. However, the Cooper D can still hit a top speed of 121 mph, and 0-62mph in 10.3 seconds. As with other MINIs, the Cooper D Convertible relies on BMW’s Efficient Dynamics engine program to make the most of performance, while still creating savings; special features like regenerative braking help push up the eco quality of the convertible series.
While you don’t get the same kick as a turbo petrol MINI, the Cooper D convertible does still offer great handling, and a Sport driving mode for pushing the car’s engine to the limit. A reinforced chassis similarly means that the Cooper D is able to be driven with the top down without shaking on the road. You also get the option of dropping the roof while travelling at 20 mph, which is ideal if you can’t always rely on getting extended periods of sunshine when driving.
In terms of the MINI Cooper D convertible’s interiors, you receive all the standard retro features of the MINI series, which includes a large dashboard, as well as some extra features – an Open meter tells you how far you’ve driven with the roof down, and while not technically that useful, is a neat future. Body options include a black soft top, with matt black mirror caps and chrome plated radiator slats – you also receive MINI Connected drive, and Cornering Brake Control.
The Cooper D’s strengths really emerge through its eco performance – the diesel engine meets EU5 emissions standards, and will put you into Tax Band B – for this band, you get 12 months of 0 road tax, followed by £20 for the years thereafter. MINI also offer a three year warranty with unlimited miles. Safety features include anti lock brakes and dynamic stability controller, as well as an immobiliser; running costs for the Cooper D are also comparably better than rivals such as the Fiat 500C, the Peugeot 207 CC, and the Mazda MX-5 roadster.
Bonus options and trims for the Cooper D convertible include a Kevin Cooper Works’ sports package, which pushes the car into a sportier territory; some colour options and variants include Denim Blue and Silver for the hood and the body, as well as Silvertouched Truffle for the hood. As with other MINIs, you get a lot of customised extras, which include leather seats, cruise control, metallic paint and climate control, as well as Bluetooth, 17 inch alloy wheels, and limited edition trims like the MINI Highgate Convertible pack.
Guest post provided by Kevin Maddox.
