2009 MINI Convertible: What's New, Specs & Features

Last updated August 4, 2026

The 2009 MINI Convertible is an all-new, second-generation model known as the R57. The redesign brings newer engines, a reworked body, better rear visibility and cargo access, standard stability control, and a John Cooper Works performance model.

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About the 2009 MINI Convertible

2nd gen (2009-2015), first year of the R57 Convertible redesign

MINI positions the Convertible as a small four-seat drop-top built around open-air fun, playful handling, and unmistakable style rather than pure practicality. Compared with more ordinary small convertibles, its appeal is the combination of compact city-friendly size, quick steering, a power soft top with sliding-roof function, and the brand’s distinctly cheerful character. It is for shoppers who want a car that feels special every time the roof goes down, without giving up everyday drivability.

The Cooper is the approachable version, with a 118-hp engine and a power soft top that also opens partway like a sunroof. The turbocharged, 172-hp Cooper S adds stronger acceleration and a sport-tuned suspension, while the 208-hp John Cooper Works sits at the top with a six-speed manual and stronger Brembo front brakes.

What changed, by category

Powertrain

The Cooper and Cooper S move to newer-generation 1.6-liter engines, producing 118 and 172 horsepower. The 208-hp turbocharged John Cooper Works Convertible also joins the range later in the model year.

Styling

The redesigned body preserves the familiar MINI shape but has a cleaner rear view, helped by a lower-profile rollover protection system concealed behind the rear seats.

Safety

Dynamic Stability Control becomes standard across the lineup. The redesign also adds an active rollover protection bar that rises when needed instead of using the previous fixed setup.

Structural

The Convertible moves to the second-generation R57 platform and body structure. An easier-to-load trunk opening and a larger pass-through behind the rear seats make the small cargo area more useful.

2009 MINI Convertible specs and features by trim

Feature	2009 MINI ConvertibleCooper0 in stock	2009 MINI ConvertibleCooper S0 in stock	2009 MINI ConvertibleJohn Cooper Works0 in stock
Engine	4-Cyl, 1.6 Liter	4-Cyl, Turbo, 1.6 Liter	4-Cyl, Turbo, 1.6 Liter
Transmission	Auto, 6-Spd Steptronic	Manual, 6-Spd	Manual, 6-Spd
Drivetrain	FWD	FWD	FWD
Fuel Type	Gas	Gas	Gas
MPG City	25 mpg	23 mpg	26 mpg
MPG Highway	34 mpg	32 mpg	34 mpg
Horsepower	118 hp	172 hp	208 hp
Torque	114 lb-ft	177 lb-ft	192 lb-ft
Trunk/Cargo	6 cu-ft	6 cu-ft	6 cu-ft
Rear Legroom	28.1 in	28.1 in	28.1 in
Seats	4	4	4
Doors	2	2	2
Safety & Security
Alarm System
Exterior Features
Alloy Wheels
Fog Lights
Entertainment & Electronics
Bluetooth
Navigation System
USB Ports
Comfort & Convenience
Heated Front Seats
Leather Seats
Proximity Keyless Entry
Push-Button Engine Start
Remote Start
Tilt Wheel

How the 2010 MINI Convertible compares

The most important change for the 2010 MINI Convertible is that cruise control and a multifunction steering wheel become standard on every trim. Otherwise, this is a quiet follow-up to the 2009 redesign, with no major structural or powertrain changes.

See the full 2010 changes

Frequently asked questions

Is the 2009 MINI Convertible the first year of a new generation?

Yes. The 2009 MINI Convertible begins the second-generation R57 design, replacing the previous-generation convertible with a new platform, body structure, engines, and rollover protection system.

What is the main difference between the 2009 and 2008 MINI Convertible?

The 2009 model is a full redesign rather than a minor update. Compared with the 2008 model, it has newer 1.6-liter engines, standard stability control, a lower-profile active rollover bar, and more useful trunk access.

Which engines are in the 2009 MINI Convertible?

The 2009 Cooper has a 118-hp 1.6-liter four-cylinder, while the Cooper S uses a 172-hp turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder. The John Cooper Works has a more powerful 208-hp turbocharged 1.6-liter engine.

Did the 2009 MINI Convertible add a John Cooper Works model?

Yes. The John Cooper Works Convertible joins the range later in the 2009 model year as the performance flagship, with 208 horsepower, a six-speed manual transmission, Brembo front brakes, and revised intake and exhaust systems.

What safety changes did the 2009 MINI Convertible receive?

The 2009 MINI Convertible makes stability control standard and introduces a concealed active rollover protection bar. The new bar improves rear visibility in normal driving and rises when rollover protection is needed.