MINI Doubles Its Open-Air Options with New Roadster

PEABODY, MASS. (01/30/2012)(readMedia)-- While the middle of winter may not seem like an ideal time to unveil a new convertible, MINI has never been one to follow convention. Due to reach MINI dealerships in late February, the small yet sporty MINI Roadster made its global debut at the Detroit Auto Show in early January.

MINI's second convertible will be its first with only two seats, offering an engaging open-air experience with a slightly sleeker profile than the MINI Cooper Convertible. Based on the 2012 MINI Coupe, the two-door sports car that is still fresh from its dealer debut last October, the Roadster will be the sixth vehicle to join MINI's rapidly expanding lineup.

"Calling MINI prolific would be an understatement," said Marshal Cabot, general manager of Greater Boston MINI dealer MINI of Peabody. "They are constantly finding ways to twist the signature MINI driving experience into a slightly different form to suit different kinds of adventurous buyers. The Roadster is the latest evidence of those efforts, and it should be very popular for those who love long summer drives."

Like the rest of the lineup, the MINI Roadster relies on a series of 1.6-liter engines for its zippy acceleration. The standard Roadster comes with a naturally aspirated engine that produces 121 horsepower while returning 35 mpg on the highway with a manual transmission. Adding a turbocharger to the mix, the Roadster S reaches 181 horsepower and achieves a 0 – 60 mph time of 6.4 seconds. Meanwhile, the most dedicated driving enthusiasts can opt for the John Cooper Works trim to get range-topping 208 horsepower and a variety of sporty equipment upgrades.

Of course, the agility of a MINI goes well beyond its horsepower numbers thanks to each vehicle's small, nimble body. The Roadster takes even greater advantage of that minimalist approach with additional weight-saving features like its manual folding fabric roof. While many modern convertibles use electric motors to raise and lower their hardtops, the Roadster's lighter fabric top only requires a simple turn of a lever before it is easily guided down behind the seats. Smart engineering keeps the folded roof from impeding on trunk space as well.

Inside, the MINI Roadster shares the large, center-mounted speedometer found throughout the lineup, while the driver peers at the rev counter through a thick-rimmed steering wheel that nods to the car's performance-minded slant. MINI's new drop-top also shares the family trait of customizability: Shoppers can choose from a number of interior and exterior finishes, trims and accessories. The roof, however, is only available in the classic British roadster roof color: black.

"Many MINI drivers are attracted to the brand because it provides them with a number of options for making their MINI their own," Cabot noted. "The new MINI Roadster will be a sought-after vehicle for those looking to buck the status quo and get some sun at the same time. It'll be extremely fun to drive and will never blend in with the crowd, much like the rest of the MINI lineup."

About MINI of Peabody:

Since 2002, MINI of Peabody has been the leading source for new and used MINI vehicles in Northern New England. Their dedication to professional, friendly customer service allowed them to win the 2009 MINI Motoring Cup, a national award presented to the dealership that has the highest sales and customer satisfaction. Their new location in Peabody offers a state-of-the art service center and an expanded selection of MINI parts and accessories. See their MINI inventory or schedule a service appointment at www.minipeabody.com, call (877) 212-9727, like them on at www.facebook.com/miniofpeabody or visit their new showroom at 209 Andover Street (Route 114) in Peabody, Massachusetts.