2010 MINI Convertible: What's New, Specs & Features

Last updated August 4, 2026

2010 MINI Convertible

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.

Shop 1 in stock at Carvana

About the 2010 MINI Convertible

2nd generation (R57), second model year after the 2009 redesign.

MINI positions the Convertible as a small premium four-seat drop-top built around style, quick responses, and open-air fun rather than roomy practicality. The big draw is that it gives shoppers a powered soft top and playful handling in a footprint that is easy to place in town. Compared with larger convertibles, the MINI leans on personality, compact size, and a more eager, more connected driving feel.

The Cooper is the easygoing 118-hp entry trim, while the turbocharged Cooper S steps up to 172 hp and adds sport seats. The manual-only John Cooper Works tops the range with 208 hp, Brembo front brakes, and performance-tuned exhaust and air-intake systems; every trim has a powered soft top with a sliding sunroof function.

What changed, by category

Tech
Cruise control and a multifunction steering wheel become standard across the Cooper, Cooper S, and John Cooper Works lineup.
Styling
Alloy wheels move from optional to standard equipment on the Cooper trim.

2010 MINI Convertible specs and features by trim

2010 MINI ConvertibleCooper1 in stock
2010 MINI ConvertibleCooper S0 in stock
2010 MINI ConvertibleJohn Cooper Works0 in stock
Engine4-Cyl, 1.6 Liter4-Cyl, Turbo, 1.6 Liter4-Cyl, Turbo, 1.6 Liter
TransmissionAuto. 6-Spd SteptronicManual, 6-SpdManual, 6-Spd
DrivetrainFWDFWDFWD
Fuel TypeGasGasGas
MPG City25 mpg24 mpg25 mpg
MPG Highway33 mpg32 mpg33 mpg
Horsepower118 hp172 hp208 hp
Torque114 lb-ft177 lb-ft192 lb-ft
Trunk/Cargo6 cu-ft6 cu-ft6 cu-ft
Rear Legroom28.1 in28.1 in28.1 in
Seats444
Doors222
Alarm System
Alloy Wheels
Fog Lights
Bluetooth
Navigation System
Premium Audio
USB Ports
Heated Front Seats
Leather Seats
Proximity Keyless Entry
Push-Button Engine Start
Remote Start

How the 2011 MINI Convertible compares

The 2011 MINI Convertible gets a mid-cycle refresh, not a full redesign. The main change is a broad update that brings slightly stronger Cooper engines, refreshed styling, revised steering, more sound insulation, and added standard tech.

See the full 2011 changes

Frequently asked questions

What changed on the 2010 MINI Convertible compared with the 2009 model?

The 2010 MINI Convertible gains standard cruise control and a multifunction steering wheel on every trim, while the Cooper also gains standard alloy wheels. Its basic structure and engine lineup otherwise carry over from 2009.

Was the 2010 MINI Convertible redesigned?

No, the 2010 MINI Convertible was not redesigned. It is the second model year of the R57 generation introduced for 2009, with only light equipment updates for 2010.

Does every 2010 MINI Convertible have cruise control?

Yes, cruise control is standard on every 2010 MINI Convertible trim: Cooper, Cooper S, and John Cooper Works. Each also has a multifunction steering wheel.

Which 2010 MINI Convertible trim is the most powerful?

The John Cooper Works is the most powerful 2010 MINI Convertible, with a turbocharged 208-hp engine, a six-speed manual transmission, Brembo front brakes, and performance-tuned exhaust and air-intake systems.

Is the 2010 MINI Convertible a major upgrade over the 2009 model?

No, the 2010 model is only a modest equipment update over the 2009 MINI Convertible. The main reasons to favor it are its standard cruise control and multifunction steering wheel, plus standard alloy wheels on the Cooper; the underlying design and powertrains are essentially unchanged.

Sources