subject: Boston Convertible excited about four-seat MINI [print this page] Boston Convertible excited about four-seat MINI
The MINI may not be so MINI in all cases. Boston MINI Cooper John Cooper Works is proud to introduce you to the two-door, four-passenger MINI. It's still fun, cute and mini, but you can now bring the kids along when you run to the store - as long as you don't buy too much.
This convertible can still open in two stages, front and full, and even at up to 20 mph. Pretty impressive if you feel the need. Maybe that's a guy thing. My wife always gets on me for backing out of the drive and then putting on my seatbelt. I can see putting the top down after I hit the road - more of a challenge.
Boston convertible buyers will love the JCW package, which comes complete with a historic nameplate. It's got a bit more oomph, stronger braking system and the sport suspension is back. There is truly nothing like it on the market. Other "mini" cars don't live up to the space and tradition of the Cooper MINI.
Size-wise, the VW GTI, Volvo C30, Honda Fit, Mazdaspeedd3 and BMW 1-series are in the running, but BMW is the only one to offer a convertible. And it's not a MINI. Boston MINI Cooper John Cooper Works customers know there is something about this brand that just calls to them.
Useful or not, the new MINI has an Openometer, which lets you know just how long your skin has been dosed with those wrinkle-inducing ultraviolet rays. (Whatever happened to sunscreen?) But it's fun and buyers love it - and no one else has it.
Safety features include an active roll bar that will show up if the possibility of a rollover is sensed. The direct-injection engine pulls 208 horsepower, plenty for a car this size. The exterior looks about like the MINI Cooper S, but the JCW package does add a side skirt and different lip spoiler.
The interior will appeal to Boston convertible buyers with its checked seat fabric, a toggle which looks like it was borrowed from an airplane and unique switches for locks, windows and the roof. The style is completely MINI and loveable. It's something Willie Wonka would drive.
What's even better, the base price is under $20,000 and since we're buying it for its quirkiness and fun-factor, luxury is not high on the wish list. The audio system is adequate and the Bluetooth/iPod integration keeps buyers connected, but at an option price of $500. Probably worth it since the MINI doesn't come with Sirius-XM.
For a fun ride for up to four, you can't beat the MINI Cooper JCW you will be hard pressed to beat the price either. So put the top down, even if you're on the road already, and enjoy!
