Driving a convertible is more than just traveling from one point to another. Without a roof barrier, it stimulates all the senses and awakens emotions. When the roof is down, wind and various scents enter—whether the smell of earth after rain, sun-dried straw, or the fresh aroma of flowers. However, this depends on the chosen route; sometimes, you might encounter smells of dried squid, spicy tom yum, rotting shrimp shells, or even a dead dog. It all depends on the path you drive and where you open the roof. Thailand has a very short season suitable for convertibles. Each year when the cool wind blows, owners of convertibles sigh with satisfaction. If you pick routes suited for leisurely driving with the top down, the surrounding view is unobstructed. The special charm embedded in a convertible is hard to explain—why does driving one bring so much happiness to its owner?
Driving a convertible evokes a feeling of freedom, with an open sky overhead unblocked by the familiar roof since childhood. This feeling intensifies the smaller the convertible is. Driving an S500 Cabriolet differs from the MINI Convertible in size and weight. The S's open roof feels enclosed by strong metal and full of comfort, while the MINI Cooper S Convertible’s compactness conveys the spirit of a classic roadster more than a small hatchback with a cut roof. In reality, humans are surrounded by many obligations and responsibilities that sometimes feel burdensome. Driving a convertible offers a moment to release daily stresses and problems.
A convertible connects you to the outside world through wind, natural scents, surrounding sounds, and scenery, helping your senses anchor you in the present moment. Mindfulness is key to good mental health as it keeps us grounded in the present without being overwhelmed by worries or negative thoughts. Driving a convertible becomes a way to connect one’s past and present into a complete experience.
The world's first MINI convertible was the work of David McMullan, Sales Manager at Lambretta Trojan of Croydon, and Jeffrey Smith, Head of Engineering and Design at Lambretta. Both shared a passion for creating a cool convertible car. Through a long friendship, collaboration, and shared vision, they aimed to transform a new MINI into a convertible. In 1962, the new MINI was still rare, so David and Jeffrey could only afford a 1959 first-generation MINI that had been used for three years for their initial experiment. This MINI, registered as AFO 887, was modified late at night by the two and their team of mechanics, as they worked regular day jobs at Lambretta to support their families.
David and Jeffrey’s days were filled with work at Lambretta from morning until evening. At night, they stayed up late cutting the roof and reinforcing the chassis to convert the MINI into a convertible. In the Stroud repair shop in Kent, despite their hectic schedule, David still found time to visit his pregnant wife in the hospital. Often, hospital staff scolded him for dirty hands covered in engine oil and grease, and sometimes car parts accidentally got into the patient rooms, causing staff displeasure.
In August 1962, David’s first son, Sean, was born. Just minutes after the birth, David and Jeffrey headed to Stroud to test-drive their "beloved" car—the modified MINI AFO 887 convertible. Driving it for the first time on the road with the top down was an exciting moment for both.
Eventually, David and Jeffrey left Lambretta Trojan and founded Crayford with a joint investment of just £20. Their new company had only a couple of toolboxes. Their first blue-painted MINI convertible was launched to the British media on 3 June 1962. The Daily Mail’s automotive front page reported the launch as a great success. The MINI Convertible attracted a nationwide network of convertible dealers and many orders. The conversion cost was set at £690 for a new MINI, and about £129 to modify an existing MINI.
Crayford's success grew when MGM featured a new Crayford Mini Cooper in the black-and-white film “Night Must Fall,” starring Susan Hampshire and Albert Finney, who drove the Crayford MINI throughout the movie. David’s wife watched the film three times in one afternoon.
Crayford introduced various models based on Austin and Morris cars. Later, they produced the Mk.1 Clubman convertible with a fully open roof and rear side windows that pulled out like Morgan cars. They also made a 'sunshine' modification with fixed wooden side supports. Crayford built a special MINI Clubman convertible beach car with jeep-like sides for the managing director of Bristol Street Motors to use at his private villa in Spain.
Today, original Crayford Mini convertibles are very rare and highly valuable, with only 15 units remaining. Due to high demand, counterfeit versions have appeared.
In 1965, Alec Issigonis, the original MINI designer, converted a MINI into a two-seat convertible, which he used personally for a time, but it never went into official production. Thus, the factory’s first official MINI convertible is considered the second ever made. The historic convertible bearing registration 627 HUE is now owned by Mr. Maruyama, a prominent car collector in Japan.
The first officially produced MINI Convertible appeared at the 1992 NEC Motor Show, offered in two body colors: Nightfire Red and Caribbean Blue. It featured a 1.3-liter engine, a luxurious walnut dashboard, and sporty Cobra seats.
The fourth-generation 2025 MINI Convertible resembles the previous model but features updated exterior styling, especially the front with new headlights, grille, bumper, wheels, and Union Jack rear lights. The black fabric roof with gray Union Jack pattern and new wheel design complement a new OLED satellite navigation screen. This 2025 refresh includes dozens of style and standard equipment upgrades, but retains the electric fabric roof mechanism unchanged due to its good performance. It uses an improved version of the previous platform rather than the new JO1 electric platform developed with Great Wall Motors. MINI is considering an electric convertible model but has not made a final decision yet. The growing electric vehicle trend may lead MINI to add an electric motor-driven convertible in the future.
Priced at 3,199,000 Baht, the 2025 MINI Cooper S Convertible opens its fabric roof quickly, powered by an electric motor that lets you enjoy fresh cool air. The roof folds or unfolds in 18 seconds. The rear seats are clearly better suited for children rather than adults due to limited space, making them more practical for storage unless the passenger is very small and willing to endure the tight quarters. Still, the rear seat is slightly roomier than that of the Audi TT Coupe, which only offers two seats in its convertible roadster.
The Cooper S convertible features upgraded trims from MINI, filling out a complete lineup. Exterior and interior styling includes new 18-inch glossy black alloy wheels, a surround-view camera, parking assist, satellite navigation, and the return of the Harman Kardon sound system last seen five years ago on a yellow Cooper S Convertible test model. The body is accented with gold and glossy black trim, including a Dark Gold grille stripe, black door handles, new Cooper S badges on the rear hood, turn signal frames, fuel cap, and MINI logos on the front and rear hoods. The lightweight 18-inch alloy wheels and a revised front grille frame from the previous model remain. The round LED headlights persist due to structural constraints, as do the upright rear lights with the British flag motif, also featured on the fabric roof. Partially folding the roof yields a sunroof effect by opening only the front section above the front seats; fully folded, it transforms into a full convertible.
The high-performance Adaptive LED headlights feature automatic beam adjustment, providing bright, clear nighttime visibility and improved safety. It is not advisable to apply front window tinting to maintain clear night vision. The new model retains modern sidelights, LED indicators, and Union Jack LED tail lights. Korean Hankook Ventus S1 evo3 sport tires sized 215/40 R18 offer excellent grip on all four wheels. The fabric roof opens and closes in 18 seconds, faster than before, though the folded fabric remains visible at the rear rather than retracting fully into the body like some other convertibles. The roof can be operated electrically at speeds up to 30 km/h.
The 2025 MINI Cooper S Convertible measures 1,744 mm wide, 3,878 mm long, and 1,431 mm tall, with a wheelbase of 2,495 mm measured from front to rear hub. Front and rear track widths are both 1,485 mm, ground clearance is 115 mm, and the weight is 1,380 kg—10 kg heavier than the previous convertible due to reinforced metal chassis bracing for torsional rigidity. New safety and driver-assist features add another 10 kg. As a roofless vehicle, it features a new hexagonal grille framed in gold plastic. The distinctive MINI LCI look includes large round headlights, new front air intakes flanked by glossy black plastic vents on Cooper S and John Cooper Works trims, and a newly designed gold MINI badge on the yellow body.
Engineering improvements surpass those of the hatchback, making the Mini Convertible more refined in many areas. A V-shaped steel brace under the front chassis increases structural strength and resists twisting. The 2.0-liter turbo engine has been tuned to reduce noise and vibration during operation.
Brand-new front and rear bumpers with decorative details make the new MINI convertible appear wider, emphasizing its sporty character. The rear bumper contrasts black plastic with yellow paint. The signature twin exhaust pipes have been hidden per European regulations, requiring a close look to spot them. The side profile and wheel arches blend harmoniously. The new 18-inch wheels are slightly harder to clean due to the numerous spokes. The convertible features a durable two-layer fabric roof, black mirror caps, and black window frames—special features under BMW Group's innovative painting technology.
The MINI TwinPower Turbo gasoline engine is a transverse-mounted inline 4-cylinder with front-wheel drive. It has a 2.0-liter displacement and a single twin-scroll variable turbocharger. Engine response is tuned to be taut and engaging. It delivers a unique torque characteristic for fun driving. The 1,998 cc engine produces a maximum output of 141 kW and, with overboost, generates 204 horsepower and 280 Nm torque (up to 300 Nm with overboost). A new 7-speed automatic transmission with revised gear ratios matches the engine's torque curve. The 2.0-liter turbo engine maintains the distinctive go-kart driving style of the hardtop models, with an exhaust note that is acceptable but somewhat quieter than before.
The turbocharged engine and 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission integrate Auto Start/Stop to reduce fuel consumption in congested traffic, contributing to lower emissions ahead of a full transition to electric power. BMW and MINI technologies combine for balanced performance and efficiency. The MINI LCI's new design improves thermodynamic principles, converting heat to energy efficiently. It employs direct fuel injection with pressures up to 2,000 bar for precise and effective combustion, delivering up to 300 Nm torque while improving fuel economy through optimized transmission ratios.
The 2025 MINI Cooper S Convertible features a newly tuned suspension for nimble handling typical of small cars, with seemingly softer shocks and springs than before. The precise and efficient EPAS steering system, anti-roll bars loaded on the axles to counter centrifugal forces, and newly adjusted steering and stability control systems support driving in all conditions. The Driving Assistant Plus package includes 12 ultrasonic sensors and four surround-view cameras, enabling automatic parking detection even in tight spaces. Panorama View enhances visibility around the vehicle, supplemented by Remote 3D View for easy image transfer to mobile devices.
Inside, the dashboard is covered with upholstery featuring a unique pattern, with custom trim on seats, doors, and even fabric straps on the steering wheel. The floating touchscreen interface combines all new MINI features. The display includes a G-force meter and acceleration gauge. New synthetic gray leather seats provide softness and sportiness, with electrically adjustable driver and passenger seats controlled by motors for sliding and lifting. The new four-way adjustable steering wheel and compact seating position offer a snug fit for average-sized occupants. Seat designs embrace the back for a supportive feel. Some interior layout changes slightly expand cabin space, though not noticeably. The short vehicle length and wheelbase ensure quick, agile responses at any speed, encouraging spirited driving.
The interior features a gray tone with blue contrast stitching on seats. The dashboard console is woven with lines extending to the instrument panel and fabric trim on the steering wheel. A round 9.5-inch OLED touchscreen offers hundreds of functions, representing the modern MINI interior while preserving classic MINI spirit. Specially woven fabric adorns the console, gray fabric covers the dashboard, and the door panels blend gray and black with unique patterns. The sporty steering wheel feels firm and comfortable. The OLED touchscreen integrates with the driving display, including G-force and acceleration meters.
The black sporty steering wheel is decorated with white stitching and covered with fabric at the 6 o'clock position, featuring a grip groove for better handling. Seats provide firm support during driving, accented with white stitching contrasting the gray synthetic leather, matching the console surface. The MINI Experience Modes include a Go-Kart mode that intensifies motorsport flair by sharpening steering response, quickening throttle, and displaying real-time torque, engine power, and G-force data on the front round OLED screen with striking red needle gauges.
The synthetic leather includes eco-friendly woven synthetic fibers, similar to those in the Cooper E and Cooper JCW, adorning the dashboard and door panels. The central 9.4-inch round OLED infotainment screen, as in the Cooper E, responds well to touch but may have a complex layout. Physical controls for air conditioning are preferred. The dashboard features a simple design with a cool round OLED infotainment screen and minimal physical switches. The woven pattern continues across the dashboard and door panels. Red accents appear at several spots, especially on the steering wheel. New ambient lighting near the rearview mirror adds a modern touch.
The central display integrates the instrument cluster using OLED technology, now standard across all new MINI models, blending modern style with versatility. The configurable central screen is standard for all 2025 MINIs, creating a fresh and contemporary cabin atmosphere. The redesigned steering wheel includes multifunction buttons with smooth surfaces and sports-style leather wrapping. The MINI Convertible comes standard with a new Driving Assistant safety system combining Lane Departure Warning, which alerts drivers through steering wheel vibration, and active cruise control capable of stop-and-go functionality.
Drive mode controls, engine start button, and gear selector are grouped on the center console. All new MINI Cooper S models come with keyless entry. Cabin temperature controls are integrated into the display. Function usage is streamlined for quick access, especially navigation via the touchscreen, facilitating easy and fast menu navigation.
The convertible offers a full suite of seven 'Experience' modes, including Green, Core, and Go-Kart, which adjust throttle response and steering feel. Activating Go-Kart mode triggers a playful 'woo-hoo' sound, which can be muted if desired.
Starting the 2.0-liter MINI TwinPower Turbo engine via the center console button initiates a polite engine idle. Moving the gear lever, resembling a small stalk, to D, the roof remains tightly closed. The test route heads west from Bangkok along Bang Bua Thong to Suphanburi, then to Lao Khwan, Nong Prue, and Si Sawat. In Core mode, engine and transmission responses are moderate; the accelerator is flexible but not aggressively quick like in Go-Kart mode. The 7-speed dual-clutch transmission enables swift gear changes, aiding overtaking and steep hill climbs. The front-wheel-drive 2.0-liter 4-cylinder turbocharged engine with a single twin-scroll turbo and overboost functions flawlessly, offering satisfying fuel economy for daily city and long-distance driving.
Adaptive LED headlights and Harman Kardon sound system, removed in the previous model, return in this version, improving on the prior model's limited options. Many MINI enthusiasts dream of driving a convertible with the MINI badge. The chassis differs from the hardtop version with reinforced bracing to prevent twisting due to the fabric roof. Despite weighing 1,370 kg, the car feels surprisingly nimble. The 0-100 km/h acceleration of 7.1 seconds is not the main purchase point. The electric roof mechanism and driving feel with the roof folded are well polished. The new Cooper S Convertible is smoother with less harshness and more comfort. Over 15 years of testing various MINI convertibles, this latest model shows significant suspension improvements, being less stiff than before, offering comfortable rides on paved roads—possibly helped by the tires. The reviewer prefers the Korean Hankook Ventus S1 evo3 tires over Pirelli P7s, having experienced sidewall bulges on P7 tires after hitting potholes in a 2018 MINI Convertible.
The 7-speed front-wheel-drive transmission shifts smoothly in normal mode and uses shorter ratios in Go-Kart mode. The 2.0-liter turbo engine delivers aggressive performance, enabling strong acceleration on open roads. Torque steer or steering pull when pressing the accelerator fully is nearly eliminated, thanks to increased vehicle weight compared to the hardtop and refined electric steering and front suspension tuning. High-speed directional changes are noticeably improved. However, given the short wheelbase, sudden steering inputs should be avoided; a gentle approach suits the open-top, leisurely driving style better.
The 2025 Cooper S Convertible drives smoothly, with well-developed engine and transmission. The suspension appeals to older drivers, giving the car a mature character. The 2.0-liter MINI TwinPower Turbo engine pushes the roofless Cooper S swiftly along paved roads near Ongkot-Huai Mae Takeng. The retuned grip balance is softer and stickier with less harshness, matching the 300 Nm torque for easy handling. The electric power steering varies weight by driving mode. Slower speeds in Green mode improve fuel efficiency through optimized fuel management in the updated 2.0-liter engine.
At low speeds with the roof closed, wind noise is noticeable due to the fabric roof, which cannot match the sound insulation of hardtops. Engine noise becomes more pronounced with the roof down, along with turbocharger whine. The Cooper S Convertible has progressed far from its 60-year-old origins. Its thick two-layer fabric roof with a bright white British flag print contrasts well with the black fabric. Folding or unfolding the roof takes 18 seconds and can be done at low speeds on pleasant days. High-speed open-top driving is less suitable. Even with the roof closed, wind and tire noise are clearly audible, even at low speeds. Driving leisurely under 80 km/h with the roof folded allows enjoying this 3-million Baht toy during cool winter mornings, creating a unique romantic atmosphere. Its dynamics balance well for cornering, fast straight-line runs, and braking. The car accelerates 0-100 km/h in 7.1 seconds and reaches a top speed of 230 km/h—impressive for a small convertible.
Driving with the roof down along the coast on pleasant days evokes romance. The suspension's previous harshness has been softened by new shock and spring tuning, enhancing comfort. The electric steering performs excellently. The transmission is smooth with paddle shifters included. Weight transfer in corners is well controlled. The shorter wheelbase and responsive steering demand caution when changing direction at speed. The 2.0-liter turbo engine delivers strong pulling power, with a quick throttle response in the highest driving mode. The MINI convertible remains fun to drive, especially with the roof down. Its continuous improvements have won many fans. It costs more than a Mazda MX-5 RF but less than an Audi TT Roadster by several hundred thousand Baht and nearly one million Baht less than a BMW Z4 30i. Whichever you prefer, with whatever power, all offer enjoyable open-top driving.