Mini Convertible review

The driver's seat is comfortable and there's a fairly wide range of adjustment as standard, although some of the controls can be hard to reach – particularly the lever to alter the angle of the spring-loaded backrest. Another issue is the offset pedals; shorter drivers in particular will find that it leaves their legs skewed over to the right.

The layout of the retro-themed dashboard may look rather higgledy-piggledy, but the important controls are logically positioned and easy to use.

Forward visibility is great, thanks to the snub-nosed bonnet and slim windscreen pillars, but it’s a different story looking rearwards. Roof up, the large fabric rear pillars blot out a fair bit of what lies behind; when folded, the roof languishes on the rear deck, filling most of what’s in the rear-view mirror.

Given those rear blindspots, it’s just as well that rear parking sensors and a reversing camera are available. 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.

As standard, the Mini Convertible gets a 6.5in colour screen, with Bluetooth, a digital radio and a USB input. The screen is controlled via a rotary switch positioned in front of the gearlever, along with some shortcut buttons. It’s easy to use for all the everyday functions and very responsive.

Sat-nav is an option on all trims and also brings Apple CarPlay smartphone mirroring (but not Android Auto). You can spend more and get an 8.8in screen with a split-screen function, more advanced sat-nav, wireless phone charging and a second USB port.