Second generation MINI Convertible enters test production

[Paul]

According to insider reports, initially posted on the MINI2 forums, the second generation MINI Convertible (internal code R57) has begun its test production at BMW Group Plant Oxford in Cowley, UK.

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[Stiggy]

So, is there anything radically different with the R57? I'm guessing it has the same basic body and engines as the R56...

[FergusM]

New body and engines not radical enough ??

[minicabrio]

Dark Blue?

I wonder what the new 'convertible only' colours will be this time around?

[ONED]

Hope it's Indie again!!!

[dalboyne]

Yes! Yes! Yes!

Ordered mine in August 2006 - hoping I'll have less time to wait than for my current one (that was over 2 years...)

Hope they also introduce a facelift, as they did with the first generation - be good to address some of the more questionable design features of the R56.......

Ian

[Stiggy]

Quote: Originally Posted by dalboyne (original)

Hope they also introduce a facelift, as they did with the first generation - be good to address some of the more questionable design features of the R56

Such as?

[85NIXMIN]

Hmmm I'm thinkin' of what "cabrio only" colours they could have.... what about a lime green or a bright pink? haha

[Derepente]

The R57 is what I have been waiting for since my cancelled order fiasco last January. When was the last time MINI use the Dark Purple or Royal Purple color? By the way the Lime Green or Margarita Green sounds good too.

[ONED]

What about the Cooper D?....will it be getting a soft top??

[minicabrio]

Quote: Originally Posted by ONED (original)

What about the Cooper D?....will it be getting a soft top??

I guess we won't know officially until we either see a CooperD Convertible test mule car, or BMW/MINI confirm it either way - but with the new Cooper D having a rear exit exhaust and all I don't see why not

[ONED]

Quote: Originally Posted by minicabrio (original)

I guess we won't know officially until we either see a CooperD Convertible test mule car, or BMW/MINI confirm it either way - but with the new Cooper D having a rear exit exhaust and all I don't see why not

.....it's still the pick of a bad bunch!

[dalboyne]

Quote: Originally Posted by Stiggy (original)

Such as?

The cheapo-looking interior controls for one!

[minicabrio]

Ian, I really think the interior on the R56 is so much better from the 1st Gen that really there isn't much room for improvement

The indicator and wiper stalks are so much better quality, every toggle clicks as it should, and every button feels solid.

Perhaps you mean that silver painted plastic looks cheap?

[dalboyne]

Quote: Originally Posted by minicabrio (original)

Perhaps you mean that silver painted plastic looks cheap?

Right in one! Maybe I'm a fuddy duddy old traditionalist, but I do like the sensible plain black controls on my current machine. If MINI were going to make something more special, then they could surely have done better than they have?