What are you driving?
It's the 2016 MINI Cooper S Convertible, our first chance to test drive the fourth generation open-topped MINI on Irish roads. As you can see from the specifications over, prices for the MINI Convertible start at €26,880, though MINI Ireland loaded the test car with options so it costs an eye-watering €43,639.
Name its best bits
Put it into Sport mode and the exhaust comes alive making loads of amusing sounds, while there's plenty of performance on tap too. It's pretty much as good to drive as the hatchback, in spite of a little flex through the structure.
The interior quality is exceptional as well, with great seats and tactile switchgear.
Anything that bugs you?
We do wish the hood would fold completely out of sight, regardless of it meaning even less space in the (enlarged, but still small) boot.
As with all current manual MINIs, it's way too easy to select reverse instead of first gear.
And why have you given it this rating?
In spite of its minor flaws, the MINI Convertible never fails to paint a smile on your face. The Cooper S model is quicker than anyone needs, quite efficient, cheap to run and cracking fun. And yes, the sun is shining as I type this, which probably helps matters...
I want to know more
This test drive format is intended to give our first impressions on a car we've not yet fully reviewed. Go to our Ask Us Anything page, send us a question and we'll give you as much detail as you need on any specific aspect.
Further reading:
MINI Cooper S Convertible review (international first drive)
MINI Cooper Convertible review