2012 MINI Roadster: What's New, Specs & Features

Last updated August 4, 2026

The 2012 MINI Roadster is an all-new model and the first open-top two-seater in MINI’s U.S. range. Its key change is the debut of a distinct two-seat convertible body alongside Cooper, Cooper S, and John Cooper Works versions.

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About the 2012 MINI Roadster

R59 Roadster, first year of its only U.S. generation (2012-2015).

MINI marketed the Roadster as a small premium roadster built around open-air fun and sharp handling, not comfort-first cruising. It takes the familiar MINI look and go-kart-like steering feel, then swaps the Convertible’s rear seat for a tighter two-seat layout and a more usable trunk. The draw is distinctive style, quick responses, and easy top-down driving in a compact package that feels more focused than the regular MINI Convertible.

The Cooper is the lively entry model, with a 121-hp four-cylinder engine and an Openometer that tracks top-down driving. The turbocharged 181-hp Cooper S provides stronger performance, while the 208-hp John Cooper Works adds the sharpest responses, extra traction hardware, and a more aggressive body kit.

What changed, by category

Structural

MINI introduced the two-seat Roadster body with a manually operated soft top. It has an 8.5-cubic-foot trunk and a pass-through cargo opening behind the seats.

Styling

The Roadster debuted with a lower, more focused shape than the four-seat MINI Convertible and a standard active rear spoiler.

2012 MINI Roadster specs and features by trim

Feature	2012 MINI RoadsterCooper0 in stock	2012 MINI RoadsterCooper S0 in stock	2012 MINI RoadsterJohn Cooper Works1 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	Auto, 6-Spd Steptronic	Manual, 6-Spd
Drivetrain	FWD	FWD	FWD
Fuel Type	Gas	Gas	Gas
MPG City	27 mpg	26 mpg	25 mpg
MPG Highway	35 mpg	34 mpg	33 mpg
Horsepower	121 hp	181 hp	208 hp
Torque	114 lb-ft	177 lb-ft	192 lb-ft
Trunk/Cargo	8.5 cu-ft	8.5 cu-ft	8.5 cu-ft
Seats	2	2	2
Doors	2	2	2
Safety & Security
Alarm System
Traction Control
Exterior Features
Alloy Wheels
Fog Lights
Rear Spoiler
Entertainment & Electronics
Navigation System
Premium Audio
Satellite Radio
Smartphone Interface
Comfort & Convenience
Heated Front Seats
Leather Seats
Proximity Keyless Entry
Push-Button Engine Start
Wood Interior Trim

How the 2013 MINI Roadster compares

The 2013 MINI Roadster gets a light equipment update rather than a redesign. The main change is a semi-automatic soft top that becomes standard across the lineup.

See the full 2013 changes

Frequently asked questions

Is the 2012 MINI Roadster the model’s first year?

Yes. The 2012 model year launched the R59 MINI Roadster, the first and only U.S. generation of this two-seat convertible.

How many seats does the 2012 MINI Roadster have?

The 2012 MINI Roadster has two seats. It was MINI’s first open-top two-seater in the U.S. lineup and is distinct from the four-seat MINI Convertible.

Does the 2012 MINI Roadster have a power-operated roof?

No. Every 2012 MINI Roadster uses a manually operated soft top.

Which trims make up the 2012 MINI Roadster lineup?

The 2012 lineup consists of Cooper, Cooper S, and John Cooper Works trims. Their engines produce 121, 181, and 208 horsepower, respectively.

How much cargo space does the 2012 MINI Roadster have?

The 2012 MINI Roadster has an 8.5-cubic-foot trunk. A pass-through opening behind the seats helps accommodate longer items.