There’s something undeniably special about driving a convertible. It’s that sense of freedom, that open-air exhilaration, and, of course, the envious glances from passersby. The new MINI Cooper Convertible embraces this spirit with a soft top that folds away in just 18 seconds.

Whether you’re weaving through city streets, cruising down a coastal road, or taking on the expressway, the transformation from snug coupé to sun-chasing cabriolet is seamless. 

“‘Always Open’, that’s how you’ll want to drive the all-new MINI Cooper Convertible. It embodies everything that makes MINI an icon—timeless design, thrilling dynamics, and that unbeatable open-air experience. As the only convertible in Singapore’s premium compact segment, it takes excitement to a whole new level.”

Daren Ching, Head of MINI Asia

Looks matter, and MINI knows it. The new Cooper Convertible blends classic design cues with contemporary accents.

The iconic round LED headlights, striking front grille, and sleek, minimalistic surfaces come together to form a car that’s unmistakably MINI. And for those who like a bit of British charm, the woven fabric soft top is available with a grey Union Jack motif.

Hop inside, and you’ll find a refined yet fun-loving cabin. The new “Charismatic Simplicity” design keeps things clean and modern, with a sporty steering wheel, an OLED central display, and the signature MINI toggle switches.

The seats are comfortable yet stylish, with fresh materials like two-tone knitted fabric made from recycled polyester.

The latest MINI Operating System 9 is accessed from the high-resolution OLED display. For those who love a bit of customisation, the MINI Experience Modes let you tweak the interior lighting and display themes to match your mood.

The luggage compartment holds 160 litres with the roof down, expanding to 215 litres when closed. A clever folding system allows the soft top to be stowed away efficiently, while the tailgate opens downwards for easy access.

There’s even an integrated rollover protection system deploys automatically in case of an emergency, ensuring peace of mind when you’re enjoying the open road.

A MINI wouldn’t be a MINI without its signature go-kart handling, and the Convertible delivers in spades. Under the hood sits a lively 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, pumping out 204 hp and 300 Nm of torque.

The MINI Convertible comes equipped with finely tuned suspension and damping for precise handling, while highly preloaded anti-roll bar mounts provide stability in tight corners.  

Priced at S$285,888, this drop-top dynamo is available now, promising endless summer vibes all year round.

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MINI, a brand synonymous with cheeky fun and go-kart handling, is set to elevate that experience with the all-new MINI Cooper Convertible.

“We are thrilled to bring open-top fun to the Singapore Motorshow,” said Daren Ching, Head of MINI Asia. “The all-new MINI Cooper Convertible takes the fun-loving spirit of MINI to the next level with a fully retractable soft top, an offering that remains unique in the premium small car segment. We cannot wait to fully introduce it to you later this year.”  

And just when you thought it couldn’t get more exciting, Ching teased another surprise: “The all-new MINI John Cooper Works models are coming very soon, and trust me, the heart of MINI will beat stronger than ever this year!”  

At first glance, the all-new MINI Cooper Convertible retains everything enthusiasts love about MINI; compact proportions, distinctive styling, and a personality that’s impossible to ignore.

But beneath its playful exterior, the car is now powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine producing 204 hp and 300 Nm of torque, launching from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.9 seconds.

The fully automatic soft top can be opened in two ways: a sunroof mode for just a hint of fresh air, or fully retracted at speeds of up to 30 km/h. When down, it tucks neatly behind the rear seats, maximising luggage space.

If previous generations are anything to go by, this new MINI Cooper Convertible will continue to remain a fan favourite among enthusiasts, retaining that quintessential MINI charm that fans over the decades have come to know and love.

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The SLK (later SLC), SL roadsters, C-, E-, and S-Class cabrios. Suffice to say, you had plenty of options to get sunburnt in Singapore.

But now, the lineup has been streamlined, with the Mercedes-AMG SL holding its own as a standalone entity, while the C- and E-Class cabriolets merge into a single, sophisticated offering: the Mercedes-Benz CLE Cabriolet.

Think of it as a ‘greatest hits’ collection of its predecessors, wrapped in one elegant package.

High-Tech Open-Top

The Mercedes-Benz CLE Cabriolet is pitched as a “harmonious blend” of the agility found in the C-Class with the luxurious comfort of the E-Class.

Its fabric roof opens or closes electronically in a swift 20 seconds at speeds of up to 59 km/h. Once the roof is stowed, Mercedes’ Airscarf system keeps the chill off your neck with a gentle flow of warm air.

Pair that with Aircap, which uses a deployable spoiler at the windscreen and a windbreak behind the rear seats to keep cabin turbulence to a minimum, and you’ve got yourself a refined open-top experience.

Comfort With A View

There isn’t a direct predecessor the CLE Cabriolet can compare to, but great legroom, shoulder room, and elbow room.

Rear passengers, however, should ideally be petite unless the roof is down.

The boot impresses for a convertible, offering 385 litres of space with the roof up (about the size of a Volkswagen Golf).

Even with the roof down, you’re left with 295 litres, but the clever auto-partition system ensures you won’t need to fiddle with dividers manually.

Tech Is A Mixed Bag

The tech suite is quintessentially modern Mercedes: comprehensive but occasionally overwhelming. An 11.9-inch touchscreen handles most of the car’s functions.

The climate controls live exclusively on the touchscreen, and the touch-sensitive surfaces can be finicky. That said, the ability to tilt the central screen to avoid glare is a thoughtful touch.

On the plus side, the cabin materials are impeccable, and the Burmester sound system is an acoustic delight. Just steer clear of the carbon-fibre-effect trims; this car deserves a classier spec.

Even the leather seats reflect heat, ensuring comfort in sunnier climes. And for those who like their tech indulgent, yes, you can even watch TikTok on the screen. Progress, indeed.

Effortless Elegance If You Take It Easy

If you’re a Mercedes fan, you’ll know the cabriolets have always played the role of laid-back luxury cruisers.

The CLE stays true to its roots. It features sports suspension that sits 15mm lower as standard. At cruising speeds, it glides serenely, with nary a whisper from the wind, whether the roof is up or down.

Light throttle inputs make the 9-speed automatic gearbox behave like a seamless single-speed unit.

But perfection is elusive. Singapore only gets the CLE200 variant, and the throttle response feels sluggish, even in the livelier Sport+ mode. Even if you push it, it doesn’t quite offer the engagement you might hope for too.

Yet, when the roof’s down, you tend to forgive it all. After all, isn’t open-top motoring about basking in the moment rather than chasing outright precision?

So What Happens When You Get Spirited?

Should you wish to still push the CLE into fun territory, it won’t disappoint. The steering, while not brimming with feedback, is precise enough to position the car with confidence.

It corners with surprising composure; flat and sure-footed.

As is often the case with luxury cabrios, a larger engine will do more justice for the CLE.

The 2-litre porker punching 201bhp and 320Nm of torque is adequate for most folks, but a wish-list CLE 450 variant will be the sweet spot for those looking for something more engaging. 

A Convertible for All Seasons

The Mercedes-Benz CLE Cabriolet is a compelling blend of style, comfort, and capability. It’s not a sports car, but it doesn’t pretend to be. Instead, it excels at delivering a refined open-top experience with just enough agility to keep things interesting.

It’s a car that makes every journey feel special, from sunset drives along East Coast to evening jaunts through the city. And isn’t that what a proper convertible should do?

In the CLE Cabriolet, Mercedes has crafted a car that’s as enjoyable to drive as it is to simply sit back and enjoy the view. Roof down, of course.

Technical Specifications

Mercedes-Benz CLE200 Cabriolet

Engine: 1,999cc in-line 4 turbocharged, Turbocharged
Drivetrain: Rear-Wheel Drive
Power: 150 kW (201 bhp)
Torque: 320 Nm
Gearbox: 9-speed G-Tronic (A)
0-100km/h: 7.9 seconds (claimed)
Top Speed: 236 km/h
Fuel Economy: 14.1km/L (claimed)

Price: S$394,888 (AMG Line) with COE (accurate at the time of this article)
Contact: Mercedes-Benz Singapore

Photo Credits: Sean Loo (@auto.driven)

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Think of it as the GranTurismo’s more fun-loving, slightly rebellious sibling, swapping a hardtop for an elegant fabric roof that disappears at the push of a button. Maserati’s latest creation is here to remind us that driving isn’t just about getting from point A to point B, it’s also about looking good while doing it.

The GranCabrio arrives in the high-performance Trofeo trim, carrying a price tag of SGD 888,000 (excluding COE). Under the hood is a growling 3.0-liter twin-turbo Nettuno engine, serving up a hefty 542hp.

That’s the kind of power that makes traffic lights feel more like launchpads, and highways feel like runways. It’s the car for those who like their drives with a side of adrenaline, all while turning heads at every corner.

And let’s talk about that soft top. Gone are the days of fiddling with roof latches or waiting ages to go topless (the car, of course). The GranCabrio’s fabric roof folds away in a cool 14 seconds—yes, even while you’re driving at up to 50 km/h.

Whether you’re taking a solo joyride or filling the four seats with friends, this convertible lets you bask in the sunshine, with the wind in your hair and the Nettuno engine purring like a contented tiger.

Of course, Maserati isn’t new to the open-top game. The GranCabrio pays tribute to the brand’s first road-going sports car, the 3500 GT, whose convertible version debuted back in 1959. Sixty-plus years later, Maserati is still proving that when it comes to luxury convertibles, they know exactly what they’re doing.

The GranCabrio is proudly 100% Italian-made, with every curve and detail oozing that unmistakable “la dolce vita” vibe.

Inside, the GranCabrio is just as suave as you’d expect. It’s not all about looking good, though—Maserati’s thought about comfort too. Need to stay toasty while cruising with the roof down? No problem. There’s a built-in neck warmer with three levels of cosy heat, so you can keep the chill at bay while staying effortlessly cool.

Want to keep turbulence from messing up your hair? There’s an optional wind stopper to keep things calm and collected in the cabin. Maserati has you covered—literally and figuratively.

Now, just because the roof is fabric doesn’t mean you’ll be sacrificing comfort. This soft top comes in five different colours and is engineered for top-tier thermal and acoustic insulation. Translation?

You can still enjoy your Spotify playlist or carry on a conversation without shouting, even when the top’s down.

In a city where luxury cars are a status symbol, the Maserati GranCabrio is sure to stand out in a sea of predictable choices. It’s the car for those who want to make an entrance, but also enjoy the journey.

Whether you’re cruising along the expressway or taking the scenic route to Sentosa, the GranCabrio makes every trip feel like a mini-vacation, complete with an Italian soundtrack courtesy of that glorious Nettuno engine.

Just don’t forget your sunglasses.

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On 1 March 2024 in Modena, Italy, Maserati debuted GranCabrio, Maserati’s latest creation dedicated to driving enthusiasts who demand the greatest
levels of comfort and style. GranCabrio is a brand-new and equally elegant open-top version of its GranTurismo coupe twin.

At launch, the Maserati GranCabrio will be available in the Trofeo trim level, featuring the six-cylinder internal combustion Nettuno engine, a 3.0-liter twin-turbo with 542hp that serves as the unmistakable roaring heart of the highest-performance cars in the Trident range.

On board the GranCabrio, the extraordinary performance of the Nettuno engine, which is the most powerful ever built for the Maserati GranTurismo, is combined with genuine, optimal comfort for long-distance travel, now with more “the sky’s the limit” sensation.

The Trident marque’s new convertible is 100% made in Italy and follows in the footsteps of the GranTurismo.

The roof is made of fabric, perfect to take up as little space as possible when automatically stored in the trunk space, where it is stowed in 14 seconds even when moving at speeds up to 50 km/h.

There’s ample space for four passengers, as GranCabrio is ideal for travelling with company or alone with the wind in your hair, savouring all the emotions of an outstanding drive and breathing in the most authentic Italian style.

Drop the top and experience the heightened sensation of the V6 engine roaring away. The union with the road and landscape is an incomparable experience that can only be offered by the spyder version of a grand touring coupe.

The “open-air experience” is enhanced by remarkable thermal and acoustic comfort, with the soft top available in five colours that can be operated from the central display via a touch button, for complete control and total autonomy.

The GranCabrio also features an innovative neck warmer as standard, to heat the driver and passenger’s necks at three different levels of intensity while the roof is down.

An optional wind stopper, which can be used with two passengers and folded manually, reduces the formation of turbulence inside the passenger
compartment and makes it possible to enjoy the best of the vehicle’s aerodynamics.

Created in parallel with the GranTurismo, the new GranCabrio is the result of the encounter between impeccable efficiency and the natural beauty of a car that over time has remained faithful to its identity: a monarch of style with the classic proportions typical of Maserati’s cars, while remaining cutting edge as the guardian of best-in-class mechanics and the latest technology.

Photo Credits: Maserati

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The G22 and G23 BMW 4 Series coupe and convertible respectively have gotten a mid-cycle refresh, or Life Cycle Impulse in BMW-speak. Market launch is expected to be in March 2024.

Both coupe and convertible receive slim LED headlights, and the large kidney grille continues its appearance here. The headlights themselves are visually and functionally upgraded.

The side lights, daytime running lights (DRLs) and turn signal indicators are vertically arranged. Cars equipped with Comfort Access will have a new Welcome Light Animation.

Adaptive LED headlights with matrix beam, urban lights and exclusive BMW M4 CSL-esque Laserlight rear lights can be ordered as options. M Shadowline lights are also optionally available as part of the M Sport Package Pro.

Design element changes in the rear end see the 4 Series’ width emphasised even more. An optional M Sport package includes a black diffuser and larger 100mm tailpipes.

Two new paint colours, New Cape York Metallic and Fire Red Metallic, have been added to the range of shades. If that’s not enough, pick from an extensive selection of BMW Individual paint colours and BMW Individual special paint finishes.

Three new 19-inch alloy rims are also optionally available, as is an M Carbon exterior package and a wide selection of BMW M Performance Parts.

On the inside, both coupe and convertible receive newly-designed steering wheels. Both the standard and M leather steering wheels feature flat bottoms.

BMW Curved Display is also here, and features Operating System 9 or iDrive 9. The number of buttons and controls in the cockpit is further reduced as a result.

The standard-fit sports seats are covered in Sensatec perforated material. Optional Vernasca leather trim with decorative quilting is now offered in bi-colour Black/Red. BMW Individual Merino leather is also available in three colours.

However, if leather is not your thing, M Perfomtex is available as a sustainable alternative for the 4 Series Coupe. High-quality velour-type material in Black is available exclusively for cars fitted with the M Sport package, and for M Performance models.

Underhood, three petrol and three diesel engines will be available from launch. Singapore will likely receive the petrol engines only. The M Performance models will enjoy a six-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine with an output of 374hp for the M440i.

Two four-cylinder engines will also be available with 184hp in the 420i and 245hp in the 430i. xDrive all-wheel drive will be standard in the 430i and M440i. A 48V mild hybrid system will come as standard in the M440i, and all engines get an eight-speed automatic Steptronic Sport transmission.

Production of the G22 & G23 LCI 4 Series will continue at BMW Group Plant Dingolfing, which also produces the 8 Series and M4.

Photo Credits: BMW

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This is the modern facelifted Mk 3.0 Mini, born way back in 2018 and revitalised with yet another facelift back in 2021.

It won’t be too long for this world, however, because Mini has since declared that it’ll be the first brand in the BMW Group to go fully electric in the 2030s. The electric revolution is already on its way at full speed, so let’s savour this one while we still can.

Peppy lil’ thing

Under the hood resides a spirited 3-pot engine, a powerplant conjuring 134bhp and 220Nm of torque in Cooper guise. Coupled with the 7-speed dual-clutch, this automotive chihuahua completes the century sprint in 8.7 seconds, a tad slower than its hatchback kin.

At least you get to feel the nice breeze in your face.

While you might crave more power from time to time (The Cooper S trim is available too if you so wish), power is more than decent for the occasional overtake, even at speed. It still feels sprightly, even though the convertible is nearly 10 per cent heavier than the hatch.

The dual-clutch transmission is a virtuoso, responding promptly to throttle inputs, orchestrating seamless shifts, and harmonising with the engine’s character.

The 2021 facelift also introduced a dramatic shift in dampers, bidding adieu to electronic wizardry in favour of a mechanical setup, surprisingly elevating the driving experience.

On the roads, the Mini Convertible continues to be a charmer. It pirouettes through corners with marvellous body control, maintaining an elegant balance from front to rear. The steering complements the performance, even with the roof down. You still get that playfulness people love when piloting Minis.

Over bumps, a subtle shimmy might be felt, but when the cornering game is this strong, such nuances add to the charm. It’s quintessentially Mini.

Refinement is far better than previous generations of Mini, and if you’re careful with the throttle, you can get decent double-digit fuel figures. With a mixture of both roof up and down sprints, I managed to clock 11.4km/litre, and that’s with a sprinkle of spirited exhaust notes chimed in. 

It has matured up

The 2021 facelift brings forth a robust new snout and an intriguing moustache-like surround. Mini claims it’s to impart a broader and more aggressive look – a bold aesthetic move indeed. 

As with all modern Minis; brace yourselves for a dose of ‘what Britishness is,’ because Mini is laying it on thick. Union Jack features everywhere?

Since 2018 it’s mandatory to have Union Jack rear lights on your Mini. Fair play to Mini, it has been meticulously correct in ensuring the split, illuminated emblem is the ‘correct’ way up. No doubt some folk utterly adore this feature, but I’m also of the opinion that many find it somewhat…over the top.

It’s a wonder you don’t get a free cup of tea with every car purchased.

The Mini Convertible’s image might seem saccharine initially, but give it a chance. The automatic roof is like magic, smoothly transforming when rain decides to gate-crash your party. And when it’s open, it’s a bit of a rucksack, reducing the rear-view mirror to a mere ornament. But fear not, airflow management is on point – minimal buffeting, especially in the front seats.

Wind noise? Not a bother, even at high speed. You’re more likely to hear the roar of passing vehicles. There’s even a ‘sunroof’ position – a nifty addition for those who like a breeze but not a full convertible experience.

Compact charm

The three-door hatch might not win awards for practicality, but treat it as a funky small coupe, and things start looking up. The cabin’s quality is top-notch, and the low seating position? Terrific.

The 8.8-inch touchscreen steals the show, running new operating software. It’s a user-friendly symphony with physical buttons for that extra tactile joy. Air vents? Smoothly integrated. And the three-spoke steering wheel falls to hand nicely, a new addition featuring high-quality leather across all trim levels.

My only gripe is that there are not many cubby spots to store items like keys or phones, so these items will tend to find awkward places around the cabin. I gravitated more towards the door cards for easy reach.

Practicality? Well, it’s a Mini, not an SUV. The boot is, let’s say, bigger than the glovebox, and you can always fold the rear seats down. 

The three-door hatch offers a grand total of 211 litres. Fold the seats, and voila, you’ve got 731 litres for your weekly shop.

Savour it while you can

In the competitive world of hatchbacks, the Mini Cooper Convertible stands a cut above. Superb drivetrains, a chassis that’s a handling maestro, and a bolder face post-facelift – what’s not to love? Sure, the 211-litre boot is pint-sized, and the three-door can only host four, but who buys a Mini for practicality?

Showroom appeal alone makes it fly off the shelves, and the almost limitless Mini Yours Customised options list guarantees each customer feels unique in their own skin/car.

This Mini, especially with its roof chopped off, is a charmer because it’s not just about specs; it’s about a unique charm that taps into your playful side. It’s the kind of car that prompts you to let your hair (or roof) down, making every journey a moment to savour. 

I guarantee you would turn around and look back at it once you’ve parked it, and that is why it’d be easy to make the Cooper your own.

Technical Specifications

MINI Cooper Convertible

Engine: 1,499cc 3-cylinder 12-valve TwinPower, Turbocharged
Power: 134 hp
Torque: 220 Nm
Gearbox: 7-Speed (A) DCT
0-100km/h: 8.7 seconds (claimed)
Top Speed: 205 km/h
Fuel Economy: 15.6 km/L (claimed)
Price: S$264,888 with COE (accurate at the time of this article)
Contact: MINI Singapore

Photo Credits: Sean Loo (@auto.driven)

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MINI Asia and Eurokars Habitat have just launched the MINI Convertible Seaside Edition. Available exclusively in Singapore in the Cooper S variant, this sporty classic promises extreme exclusivity, with just 5 units being commissioned.

The Seaside Edition is distinguished by double decorative stripes in white that run from the side doors to the rear. A unique graphic on the front apron, featuring a stylized “30,” celebrates the model’s anniversary. Of course, the base colour is either a maritime-inspired Caribbean Aqua paint finish or a cloud-based Nanuq White finish.

The side scuttles bear the discreet “Seaside” lettering, with graphically designed numerals in light and dark blue paying homage to the 30th model anniversary. Floating wheel caps, designed to remain stationary even when the car is in motion, ensure that the stylized “30” on the wheel caps is always perfectly presented. Taken a page out of Rolls-Royce’s book, nice.

On the inside, the lower spoke of the sports leather steering wheel displays the eponymous “Seaside” lettering, while the decorative trim strips on the front dashboards feature a printed pattern and lettering unique to the car.

The same dashboard pattern is echoed on the floor mats in the form of a graphic badge.

Same as your standard ‘boring’ Cooper S variants, the latest generation of MINI’s operating system has a wide array of vehicle functions, audio programs, communication, navigation, and apps. Wireless Apple CarPlay is also available, allowing drivers to sync up with their favourite Apple devices.

Pairing together with the car, the MINI App ensures drivers are connected to their vehicles at all times, no matter where they are. Drivers can even personalise their in-app experience with a dedicated colour scheme and visual design for the MINI Convertible Seaside Edition.

MINI’s Driving Assistant package is also included as standard, enhancing safety on the road with its suite of safety features.

Equipped with a 2.0-litre, 178hp 4-pot heart, the Cooper S can rock the century sprint in just 6.9 seconds.

“As we celebrate the anniversary of the MINI Convertible, a true icon of individual style and top-down driving fun, we are thrilled to introduce the Seaside Edition,” said Mr. Kidd Yam, Head of MINI Asia.

“This special edition showcases exclusive equipment and design features, with a choice of the shimmering blue Caribbean Aqua paint finish or the light Nanuq White body colour. Each lucky owner will truly enjoy a level of exclusivity like no other.”

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