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2009 MINI Cooper Convertible photos hit the web
by Alex Nunez on Sep 28th 2008 at 12:25AM 
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MotoringFile, ground zero on the web for all things MINI, has the scoop on the long-awaited 2009 MINI Cooper Convertible. Someone slipped MF seven official shots of the Detroit-bound R57 Cooper ragtop along with some additional inside information. Obviously, it's based on the current chassis and powertrains, so you know what you're going to get there. Additionally, the JCW package is supposedly going to be available at launch as well.
One of the most obvious visual changes in the new convertible is the use of pop-up roll hoops instead of the fixed units featured on the old car. This, in addition to looking cleaner, should improve rearward visibility with the top down. Speaking of the top being down, the new car includes a cutesy little gimmick called the 'Always Open" gauge. Located next to the tach housing, it tells the driver the percentage of miles driven with the top open. Look also for new paint and top colors outside, plus a new black chrome interior trim package inside. MotoringFile says we'll see the car in showrooms come Spring 2009. Look for more info on the new MINI convertible as we get closer to the Detroit Auto Show. In the meantime, hit up MotoringFile for their full preview report. Thanks to Gabriel for the heads-up.
Gallery: 2009 MINI Cooper Convertible
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[Source: MotoringFile]
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Reader Comments (Page 1 of 2)
SilverAero 12:36AM (9/28/2008)
That has to be the most wasted gauge ever. I'd rather have a gauge that tells me how many women, say "that mini is so cute" as i pass.
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Cardude 12:54AM (9/28/2008)
I prefer the MINI coupes. Cool little cars.
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Torrent 12:56AM (9/28/2008)
Am I allowed to say I see virtually no change in appearance?
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vec 1:24AM (9/28/2008)
Keeping the looks nearly identical is intentional. The redesign is under the skin and done to lower manufacturing costs.
Berto 3:55AM (9/28/2008)
Looks great.
Although, I am not too sure about off-roading with one of these in what is obviously very dusty terrain with the top down.
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elpepe 4:36AM (9/28/2008)
minis, just like the miatas, are for guys VEEEEEEEEEERY secure with their sexuality ;)
....or just playing for the other team....
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Ken Stamper 5:23AM (9/28/2008)
...or anyone who like small, fast cars that handle well. Which, correct me if I'm wrong, includes most auto enthusiasts regardless of sexual preference?
Mike!!ekiM 10:08AM (9/28/2008)
Babe's like pretty things, like Mini's and puppies.
Use your brain, man. When you're fishing you pick the right bait.
Rich 9:16PM (9/29/2008)
...so by extension (hoho), what's the demographic for the Mustang & Co.?
Peter Crott 4:01AM (9/29/2008)
Great work BMW - and thank God those awful boot hinges are gone!
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Swede 7:50AM (9/28/2008)
And they couldnt use the time to clean up the interior? I'll never buy a Mini, or any other car for that matter, with such a stupid interior layout.
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Wally 8:38AM (9/28/2008)
This thing is too small, it's not a truck, can I climb a mountain in it?, Don't think it'd be too good in plowing my corn field, what happened to it's roof?, Don't import this to the US "we" don't need it., Doe's it get a hundred miles to the gallon?, What no V8?, Boy this'll look good dubbed out with 24" rims., Mommy and Daddy will never buy this for me., Is it made by Honda?, So Girlie., Don't like the color., Gee, the gauges look silly, we don't need any gauges.,
Sorry, my sarcastic bucket filled up after reading the silly commenters here and other posts.
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BoneHeadOtto 11:30PM (9/28/2008)
Dont forget to add this stupid comment
"hey if you like that car check out my website where they build a poopercar." - im talking about you Andry.
adrian 8:39AM (9/28/2008)
And still very expensive for a small car.
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tragedy 10:30AM (9/28/2008)
The all-new 2010 Mini Cooper Convertible; Now 50% MORE GAY!
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tragedy 10:30AM (9/28/2008)
More like "That guy is totally gay!" ;)
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Franz 12:59PM (9/28/2008)
Cute car... my girlfriend would love it.
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David 1:18PM (9/28/2008)
I like the car but the advertising is kinda stupid...who would want to drive with the top down on a dusty road?
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brook 2:53PM (9/28/2008)
I love coopers!!!! they are cool cars..... And by the way Mike!!ekiM not all girls like cute and sweet things. And it's pretty sad you have to bait to get a girl.
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brook 3:11PM (9/28/2008)
I love coppers! They are so cool1 by the way Mike!!eliM it's pretty sad that you have to bait to get a girl!
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