Mini unveils new 2012 Mini Roadster

By Amir Iliaifar November 2, 2011

Size isn’t everything — and who knows more about that than longtime automaker Mini? If we have learned anything from Mini throughout the years it’s the old adage that big things do come in small packages and the new Mini Roadster is a testament to that.

Perfectly combining sportiness with style and size, the new Mini Roadster is a soft-top version of the Mini Coupe and is the brand’s first open-top two-seater. The roadster shares a lot of similarities with its Coupe cousin, but it measures 20 mm lower and offers a larger trunk space.

Under the hood (or bonnet, to satisfy your inner Brit) the Mini Roadster will offer a variety of options. There are four models to choose from, all of which will offer various degrees of performance levels – from the standard Cooper Roadster’s 1.6-liter 122-horspeower engine to the John Cooper Works Roadsters 211-horspower engine. The Mini Roadster is sure to offer up something fun and enjoyable for every driver.

Each of the four models will make its way stateside, but at this time final pricing for the Mini Roadster has not been confirmed.

Editors' Recommendations

Topics

Photo Galleries

Former Digital Trends Contributor

Associate Automotive Section Editor for Digital Trends, Amir Iliaifar covers the ever increasing cross-section between tech…

Cars

Mini’s most powerful models to date will make you want to take the long way home

Mini Clubman JCW

Previous

Next

Cars

Mercedes-Benz EQG: range, price, release date, and more

Concept image of the larger electric G-Wagon

The G-Class is going electric. We already knew that Mercedes-Benz was working on an electric, small-size G-Wagon, but it looks like the company is also working on a larger G-Class SUV, in the form of the EQG. In fact, Mercedes has gone as far as to show off a concept version of the off-roader.

While there's much we don't know about what will become the production model of the EQG, Mercedes has also shared a lot about it. Curious about whether the Mercedes-Benz EQG could be the EV for you? Here's everything we know so far.
Design
Fear not -- the EQG will retain many of the design aspects of the G-Class that you already know and love but with a modern face-lift. The EQG will keep the boxy design that gives the G-Class a classic look but with some additional modern styling, at least if the concept version is anything to go by.

Cars

Rivian R2 vs. Kia EV9: battle of affordable electric SUVs

Kia EV9 GT-Line Three Quarters

The long-awaited Rivian R2 has finally been announced, and it's an excellent option for those who want an electric SUV that doesn't completely break the bank. Sure, the R2 isn't cheap -- but it's a whole lot cheaper than most other EVs out there, especially when it comes to SUVs. But Rivian isn't the only company trying to tackle the problem of the budget electric SUV. The Kia EV9 is finally available, and it too offers a modern design and a range of helpful features.

Given the fact that the Rivian R2 and Kia EV9 are two electric SUVs in a similar price range, you might be wondering which is better for your needs. That's why we put the Rivian R2 and the Kia EV9 head-to-head.
Design
Both the Rivian R2 and the Kia EV9 are actual SUVs -- not crossovers pretending to be SUVs, like plenty of other EVs out there. The two vehicles offer big, boxy designs and plenty of interior space, making them excellent options for families or those who need that extra storage.