Model tested: Mini Convertible John Cooper Works Chilli Pack
Price as tested: £25,005
Date tested: June 2009
Road tester: Stuart Milne

Auto Trader Ten Point Test rating: 80%
The Convertible is the second Mini to get the full John Cooper Works treatment. While previous JCWs have been a retro-fit package, post-facelift models are factory-built. That means the Convertible JCW is the fastest, most powerful drop-top Mini ever built.

1. Looks
There's no mistaking the masculine muscle the JCW packs, with black JCW grilles, front and rear bumpers and side skirts. 17-inch spoked alloys hide red brake calipers, emblazoned with JCW livery and two big-bore tailpipes poke from the middle of the rear bumper.
8/10

2. Looks Inside
Most love the Mini's retro charm; others find it contrived. The central speedo divides opinion so try before you buy. The JCW gets a smattering of tasty trims, which look great.
8/10

3. Practicality
The 170-litre boot reduces to just 125 litres with the roof folded. A luggage net stops small bits sliding around, but there's an 80kg weight-limit on the fold-down tailgate. Fold the roof and rear visibility is hampered but there's a decent amount of space up front, although rear legroom is tight.
6/10

4. Ride and handling
This is traditional Mini home territory, and the JCW is a hoot. It's not as accomplished as the hatchback and excellent Clubman, but can still dance. The suspension is firm, but this only becomes an issue on badly scarred roads.
8/10

5. Performance
With 211bhp on tap the 0-62mph dash takes just 6.9 seconds and can reach 146mph. The throaty exhaust pops and crackles under deceleration and a sport button produces turbo boost earlier in the rev range, while improving throttle and steering response.
9/10

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6. Running Costs
The Convertible JCW is costly to buy, but running costs are reasonable. CO2 emissions of 169g/km shouldn't break the bank and average fuel consumption is 39.8mpg; used values are also strong.
7/10

7. Reliability
BMW's renowned quality is evident throughout the Mini, and we found nothing to give cause for concern.
9/10

8. Safety
The hatchback Mini has a five-star EuroNCAP rating but the Convertible hasn't been tested. EBD and traction control are standard, as is ESP.
9/10

9. Equipment
A JCW alcantara steering wheel, sports seats, bespoke interior trim, air-con, 17-inch alloys, bodykit, bigger brakes and a smattering of JCW badging are standard – but not climate control.
7/10

10. X-factor
It's a Mini. It's a convertible. And it's fast and fun. What's not to like?
9/10