The Mini Roadster provides spontaneous, and irresistible drop-top performance

Mini Asia launched their first drop-top coupe in the brand's history. The sixth model in the iconic British marque comes in the form of a compact roadster that is packed with powerful engines, sophisticated chassis technology, model-specific tuning, and bears the same go-kart handling commonly associated with the brand.

Neil Fiorentinos, Managing Director of BMW Group Asia commented on the event, saying the new Roadster is the first small premium car that comes with an irresistible open-top two-seater design. He also added by mentioning the new roadster will appeal to people with a penchant for elegant sportiness.

The Mini Roadster's classical soft-top roof, which can be operated quickly and easily, ensures open-air driving pleasure at every opportunity. The roadster further comes standard with a manually-operated soft-top with a semi-automatic as an option that offers spontaneous, rapid opening and closing.

When it comes to optimizing occupant protection the roadster is fitted with a pair of roll-over bars behind the seats. And whether the roof is open or closed, there is an adequate 240 Litre boot space. The wide through-loading facility into the passenger compartment provides an added practicality. The faithful Mini design within the proportions of a roadster displays elegance, besides a sweeping silhouette, leaving little doubt as to the brand identity of the new model.

The three powertrains include the 122hp from the Cooper roadster, the 184hp Cooper S roadster, and the beefy 211hp from the John Cooper Works Roadster driving the front wheels.

The car is loaded with driver-aid technologies including Electric Power Steering with speed-sensitive power assistance, bundled with DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) and Electronic Differential Lock Control (EDLC) providing greater assurance on slippery surfaces and additional sports performance.

Specially strengthened elements of the rigid body and low centre of gravity enhances both the handling agility and safety of the roadster. Meanwhile, front and head-thorax airbags, an extremely rigid windscreen frame and polished stainless steel roll-over bars provide occupant protection. A rear spoiler is activated at speeds of 80km/h besides providing visual entertainment. Besides the usual standard equipment list, boost levels of comfort and individuality through options such as Recaro sport seats, a 6.5" LCD screen and the Always Open Timer.

The roadster will be produced alongside other Mini’s in Great Britain. Mini ranks as Britain’s third-largest carmaker, and the BMW Group is investing around £500 million (S$ 1 billion) in expansion and modernisation of its manufacturing facilities in Britain up to 2014.