December 2008 Car News - GBCarLoans.com

2nd December 2008

'Openometer' debuts with mini's new convertible

BMW's second generation Mini convertible has a unique new option feature - the 'Openometer'.

This 'Openometer' the automaker said, records the time spent by the owner driving with the top down, "meaning passengers can measure their visual coolness inside, even if it's cold outside."

The completely redesigned drop-top carries over the same design of fully retracting canvas roof that can be part-opened in 'sunroof' mode.

BMW's dedicated Mini plant just outside Oxford in England is where is where it is bulit. It will be on sale in the UK on 28 March and will be globally launched after that.

The revised convertible will be available in Cooper and Cooper S versions, Petrol 1.6-litre and (eventually) diesel engines from the PSA/BMW joint venture.

UK Cooper prices will start at GBP15,995 'on the road' and the Cooper S from GBP18,995.

The new drop-top will be offered with two exclusive new colours - 'interchange yellow' and 'horizon blue'. Roof colour options are black, 'denim blue' and 'hot chocolate'.

One big change for the UK is standard air conditioning with a cooled, lockable glovebox.

The automatic canvas roof can be fully retracted or closed in just 15 seconds and works at speeds of up to 20 mph.

The new model features a single-piece roll bar situated behind the rear seats, ensuring passenger safety in the event of a crash. Rear passenger headrests are now height-adjustable, too.

Luggage capacity has been increased to 125 litres from 120 with the roof open and from 165 to 170 litres with the roof up. Increased luggage space is created with the rear seat folded down and roof closed.Bike rack preparation will also be standard.

Technologies based on BMW's EfficientDynamics systems are now standard and include auto start stop, brake energy regeneration and shift point display.

 

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