Tonneau covers are normally needed to keep dirt and debris out of the top mechanism, and simultaneously tidy up outward appearances. Putting one on, unless fully automatic like on one of BMW's convertibles, is often a cumbersome process requiring more work than it's worth - Volkswagen New Beetle Convertible owners know exactly what I'm talking about. As mentioned the new MINI ragtop doesn't need one, a very good thing.
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| The MINI Convertible does away with cumbersome tonneau covers. (Photo: MINI Canada) |
In order to accommodate the top, the MINI Convertible features power actuated rear windows, not available in the coupe. This allows increased airflow when the top is up as well, with the added bonus of a more open environment for those stuck in the somewhat abbreviated back seats.
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| An "ultra-strong steel" A-pillar and windshield surround increases passenger protection as well as torsional rigidity. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press) |
Up to four occupants are protected from rollover by dual aluminum roll bars located behind the rear passenger headrests. The roll hoops look good too, adding a unique styling detail that further separates the new car from anything else on the road. Additional protection results from an "ultra-strong steel" A-pillar and windshield surround, also combining to increase the car's torsional rigidity.
In case you were wondering if the gold bar toting MINIs as featured in the movie "The Italian Job" had greater payload capacities than Dodge's Ram 3,500 pickup, the current light truck leader, the car's actual capabilities are 400 kilos (882 pounds). Not bad for a MINI Convertible just the same, as is its 164 liter (5.8 cubic foot) trunk capacity. That space shrinks to 119 liters (4.2 cubes) with the top dropped.