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2021 MINI Convertible: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2021 MINI Convertible is the return of the 6-speed manual transmission on the Cooper and Cooper S. MINI also added the Cooper S-based Sidewalk Edition, while the rest of the lineup largely carried over.
About the 2021 MINI Convertible
3rd generation (F57, 2016-2024), sixth model year and last U.S. model year before the 2022 update.
The MINI Convertible is MINI’s small premium drop-top for buyers who want open-air fun without giving up the brand’s playful handling and distinctive style. MINI markets it around its “Always Open” personality: a compact four-seat convertible with a power soft top, lively turbo engines, and a cabin that feels more upscale and expressive than most small convertibles. Against rivals, its main draw is the mix of go-kart-like responses, everyday usability, and unmistakable MINI design.
The Cooper is the simple, playful entry model, with a 134-hp turbo three-cylinder engine and a power soft top that also opens partway like a sunroof. The 189-hp Cooper S adds stronger performance and sportier styling, while the 228-hp John Cooper Works sits at the top with firmer suspension, stronger Brembo brakes, and an 8-speed automatic.
What changed, by category
Powertrain
The 6-speed manual transmission returned for the Cooper and Cooper S. The John Cooper Works remained automatic-only.
Styling
MINI added the Cooper S-based Sidewalk Edition with its own special-edition appearance treatment. The regular lineup received no model-wide styling update.
2021 MINI Convertible specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 3-Cyl, Turbo, 1.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.0 Liter | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Manual, 6-Spd | Manual, 6-Spd | Automatic, 8-Spd Sport |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 28 mpg | 26 mpg | 25 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 37 mpg | 34 mpg | 33 mpg |
| Horsepower | 134 hp | 189 hp | 228 hp |
| Torque | 162 lb-ft | 207 lb-ft | 236 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 7.6 cu-ft | 7.6 cu-ft | 7.6 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 30.9 in | 30.9 in | 30.9 in |
| Seats | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Doors | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Alarm System | |||
| Park Assist | |||
| Rear View Camera | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| Fog Lights | |||
| LED Headlights | |||
| Navigation System | |||
| Premium Audio | |||
| Smartphone Interface | |||
| Heated Front Seats | |||
| Leather Seats | |||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | |||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | |||
| Push-Button Engine Start | |||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2021 MINI Convertible?
The biggest change is the return of the 6-speed manual transmission on the Cooper and Cooper S. Most other parts of the regular lineup carried over from 2020.
Which 2021 MINI Convertible models have a manual transmission?
The 2021 Cooper and Cooper S Convertibles were offered with a 6-speed manual transmission. The John Cooper Works used an 8-speed automatic only.
Was the Sidewalk Edition new for the 2021 MINI Convertible?
Yes. The Sidewalk Edition joined the U.S. lineup for 2021 as a Cooper S-based special edition with its own appearance treatment.
Was the 2021 MINI Convertible redesigned?
No. The 2021 model kept the same third-generation body, engines, soft-top design, and basic layout as 2020. The more visible update arrived for 2022.
Is the 2021 John Cooper Works Convertible different from the Cooper S?
Yes. The John Cooper Works has a 228-hp turbo engine, firmer suspension, stronger Brembo brakes, a model-specific aerodynamic body kit, and an 8-speed automatic. It did not receive the returning manual transmission.
2021 MINI Convertible Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2021 MINI Convertible.
4.5
2021 MINI Convertible
(105 reviews)
“The convertible top is automatic, I love the color of the car, it looks very elegant and it's fun to drive.”
“Wonderful car that delivers terrific performance while delivering great gasoline mileage”
Sources
- press.bmwgroup.com — Detail / T0309374EN US / Model Year 2021 Mini Lineup Pricing And Equipment Updates
- press.bmwgroup.com — Attachment / T0309374EN US / 452280
- press.bmwgroup.com — Detail / T0324990EN US / The Original – New Every Time: The Mini 3 Door The Mini 5 Door The Mini Convertible
- press.bmwgroup.com — Attachment / T0335389EN US / 483785
- press.bmwgroup.com — Attachment / T0297926EN US / 434194
- 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 — Attachment / T0240122EN US / 356136
- press.bmwgroup.com — Detail / T0307088EN US / Mini Usa Announces U S Launch And Pricing For Mini Sidewalk Edition
- press.bmwgroup.com — Detail / T0330454EN US / Individual Style And Performance Reloaded: The Mini John Cooper Works And The Mini John Cooper Works Convertible
- press.bmwgroup.com — Article / Detail / The New Mini John Cooper Works Convertible
- press.bmwgroup.com — Article / Attachment / 382714