2011 MINI Convertible: What's New, Specs & Features

Last updated August 4, 2026

2011 MINI Convertible

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.

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About the 2011 MINI Convertible

2nd generation MINI Convertible (R57, 2009-2015), mid-cycle refresh year.

MINI markets the Convertible as an "Always Open" small premium drop-top built around playful handling and open-air fun. Its appeal is not cabin space or luxury-car isolation; it is the combination of compact size, quick reactions, retro style, and a soft top that can act like a sunroof or fold fully away. Compared with larger convertibles, the MINI feels more tossable and more character-focused, while still offering four seats and clever cargo access.

The Cooper is the easygoing entry point, with a 121-hp engine and a power soft top that also opens partway like a sunroof. The turbocharged, 181-hp Cooper S adds stronger acceleration and a sport-tuned suspension, while the 208-hp John Cooper Works tops the range with larger Brembo front brakes, a performance-tuned manual transmission, and a sport exhaust.

What changed, by category

Powertrain
The Cooper’s 1.6-liter four-cylinder rises to 121 hp, while the turbocharged Cooper S increases to 181 hp. The John Cooper Works engine remains at 208 hp.
Styling
MINI refreshes the front and rear bumpers, fits larger fog lamps and new taillight assemblies, and introduces new wheel designs. The John Cooper Works also gets darker-tinted sunroof glass.
Tech
HD Radio, satellite radio, and push-button engine start become standard across the lineup. The radio controls are also revised.
Structural
The steering is revised, and added sound insulation helps reduce noise inside the cabin.

2011 MINI Convertible specs and features by trim

2011 MINI ConvertibleCooper0 in stock
2011 MINI ConvertibleCooper S2 in stock
2011 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 City27 mpg26 mpg25 mpg
MPG Highway36 mpg34 mpg33 mpg
Horsepower121 hp181 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
Traction Control
Alloy Wheels
Fog Lights
Power Moonroof
Navigation System
Premium Audio
Satellite Radio
Smartphone Interface
Heated Front Seats
Leather Seats
Proximity Keyless Entry
Push-Button Engine Start

How the 2012 MINI Convertible compares

The 2012 MINI Convertible is mostly a carryover from 2011. Its most important change is that the John Cooper Works Convertible's aerodynamic body kit became standard equipment.

See the full 2012 changes

Frequently asked questions

Is the 2011 MINI Convertible a full redesign?

No. The 2011 MINI Convertible is a mid-cycle refresh of the second-generation model, with updated styling, stronger Cooper and Cooper S engines, revised steering, more sound insulation, and additional standard tech.

How much power does each 2011 MINI Convertible trim have?

The 2011 Cooper has 121 hp, the turbocharged Cooper S has 181 hp, and the John Cooper Works has 208 hp. The Cooper gains 3 hp and the Cooper S gains 9 hp over 2010, while the John Cooper Works output stays the same.

What styling changed on the 2011 MINI Convertible?

The 2011 MINI Convertible receives refreshed front and rear bumpers, larger fog lamps, new taillight assemblies, and new wheel designs. The John Cooper Works also adds darker-tinted glass in the soft top’s sunroof section.

What became standard on the 2011 MINI Convertible?

HD Radio, satellite radio, and push-button engine start become standard across the 2011 MINI Convertible lineup. MINI also revises the radio controls for this refresh.

Is the 2011 MINI Convertible meaningfully different from the 2010 model?

Yes, but the differences are modest rather than transformative. The 2011 is the better fit if you value its fresher styling, extra power in the Cooper or Cooper S, revised steering, added sound insulation, and broader standard audio equipment; the basic second-generation design carries over.

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