Mini Convertible review

The driver's seat in the Mini Convertible is comfortable and there's a reasonably wide range of adjustment, but some of the controls can be hard to reach – particularly the lever that alters the angle of the backrest. Be aware that the adjustable lumbar support comes only as standard with Exclusive and JCW trims, although it is optional on Sport trim. 

Another issue is the offset pedals; shorter drivers in particular will find that this leaves their legs skewed over to the right, and the seat may not slide far enough forward for some. A front armrest between the seats is part of the optional Comfort and Comfort Plus packs on all models.

Although the layout of the retro-themed dashboard looks rather higgledy piggledy, the important controls are logically positioned and easy to use. The toggle switches in front of the gearlever look and feel great, although it can be tricky to find the one you want on the move.

Forward visibility is fantastic, thanks to the snub-nosed bonnet and slim, upright windscreen pillars, but it’s a different story when you're looking back over your shoulder. With the roof up, the large, fabric rear pillars block your view of what lies behind and, when folded down, the roof languishes on the rear deck, filling most of what’s you see in the rear-view mirror.

Given those rear blindspots, it’s just as well that rear parking sensors are standard. Front parking sensors and a rear-view camera are available as options. What’s more, if you fear for your alloy wheels’ wellbeing, you can spec an automatic parking system that will steer the car into a space for you. These items are all included in the Comfort Plus pack.

As standard, the Mini Convertible gets a central 6.5in colour screen, with Bluetooth, a DAB radio and a USB socket. This is operated by using a rotary controller positioned behind the gearlever, with shortcut buttons to help make frequently used functions less of a faff to jump to. It’s generally easy to use and very responsive.

The optional Navigation Pack adds (yep you guessed it) sat-nav, but also Apple CarPlay smartphone mirroring (though not Android Auto). Add the Navigation Plus Pack and you'll get an 8.8in screen with a split-screen function, more advanced sat-nav, wireless phone charging and a second USB port. This is pricey, but it does give you the best infotainment system in the class.