“Fun and zippy car to drive. Never liked convertibles until I drove this one. I got luxury, sporty, and fast all in one vehicle!”
2016 MINI Convertible: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2016 MINI Convertible is a full redesign, moving to the new F57 generation. Its headline change is a larger, more practical body paired with a new family of turbocharged BMW Group engines.
About the 2016 MINI Convertible
3rd-generation MINI Convertible (F57), first year of the redesign
MINI positions the Convertible as a small premium four-seat drop-top that delivers playful handling without giving up everyday usability. Compared with tiny two-seat roadsters, it offers a usable back seat, a more versatile cargo area, and a soft top that can act like a sunroof when full open-air driving is not needed. Its appeal is the mix of city-friendly size, distinctive style, upscale cabin feel, and open-top fun.
The Cooper is the everyday entry point, with a 1.5-liter turbo three-cylinder engine, a power fabric roof, and a 6.5-inch infotainment screen. The sportier Cooper S uses a stronger 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder engine and stands out with a hood scoop, dual center exhaust outlets, and a cornering system designed to help it feel more responsive.
What changed, by category
Powertrain
A new turbocharged engine family replaces the previous engines. The Cooper moves from 121 to 134 horsepower and from 114 to 162 lb-ft of torque, while the Cooper S rises from 181 to 189 horsepower and from 177 to 207 lb-ft. A six-speed manual transmission is standard.
Styling
The redesigned F57 body replaces the previous-generation design. The Cooper S has sportier details that include a hood scoop and dual center exhaust outlets.
Tech
A 6.5-inch infotainment display, driving modes, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a power fabric roof with a sunroof-style opening are standard. Smartphone integration moves from optional to standard.
Structural
The larger body provides more passenger and cargo room. Rear legroom increases from 29.3 to 30.9 inches, and the Easy Load opening makes the cargo area easier to reach.
2016 MINI Convertible specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 3-Cyl, Twin Turbo, 1.5L | 4-Cyl, Twin Turbo, 2.0L |
| Transmission | Manual, 6-Spd Getrag | Manual, 6-Spd Getrag |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 27 mpg | 25 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 37 mpg | 34 mpg |
| Horsepower | 134 hp | 189 hp |
| Torque | 162 lb-ft | 207 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 7.6 cu-ft | 7.6 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 30.9 in | 30.9 in |
| Seats | 4 | 4 |
| Doors | 2 | 2 |
| Alarm System | ||
| Park Assist | ||
| Rear View Camera | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| Fog Lights | ||
| LED Headlights | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| Smartphone Interface | ||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||
Frequently asked questions
Is the 2016 MINI Convertible a redesigned model?
Yes. The 2016 MINI Convertible begins the F57 generation with a larger body, new turbocharged engines, more interior room, and easier cargo access.
What engines are in the 2016 MINI Convertible?
The 2016 Cooper Convertible has a 134-horsepower 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine, while the Cooper S has a 189-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. Both have a six-speed manual transmission as standard.
Is the 2016 MINI Convertible roomier than the 2015 model?
Yes. The redesigned 2016 body has more passenger and cargo room, with rear legroom increasing from 29.3 to 30.9 inches. Its Easy Load opening also makes the cargo area more accessible.
Which trims are offered for the 2016 MINI Convertible?
The 2016 lineup consists of the Cooper and Cooper S. The John Cooper Works trim from 2015 was dropped for this model year.
Does the 2016 MINI Convertible have a power roof?
Yes. Every 2016 MINI Convertible has a power-operated fabric roof with a sunroof-style opening and a heated glass rear window.
2016 MINI Convertible Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2016 MINI Convertible.
4.5
2016 MINI Convertible
(119 reviews)
“The vehicle of which I purchased is fuel efficient, powerful and has great handling characteristics. Not particularly roomy for 4 adults, but when used for long distance travel it is extremely comfortable. A huge surprise.”
“I had nothing but mechanical problems from the time I bought this vehicle. I traded it about 1 month after purchase”
Sources
- press.bmwgroup.com — Article / Detail / T0240122EN US
- press.bmwgroup.com — Detail / T0250523EN US / Mini Usa Announces Us Market Pricing For New Mini Convertible And Addition Of John Cooper Works Variant
- press.bmwgroup.com — Detail / T0261253EN US / Model Year 2017 Mini Lineup Pricing And Equipment Updates
- press.bmwgroup.com — Attachment / T0240122EN US / 356136