BMW's Mini division will be unveiling a new addition to its Convertible range at the Detroit auto show next month.
The new Sidewalk hits Mini dealers from April 2007 and consists of, said BMW, "a fresh model boasting a raft of luxurious design enhancements".
Mini's UK boss Andy Hearn said: “The Mini One Seven, Cooper Park Lane and Cooper S Checkmate editions of the Mini hatch have been hugely popular, with nearly 8,000 models sold in the UK in just 12 months. We are confident that Sidewalk will offer the same exclusivity and maximum value for Convertible customers. Undoubtedly it will reinforce Mini’s unique position as a premium small car.”
The Sidewalk offers a host of options, available on the One, Cooper and Cooper S. It includes a choice of four paintwork colours, brown leather upholstery, 17-inch light alloy wheels, bi-colour leather steering wheel and gear knob and special ‘Sidewalk’ interior trim, floor mats, badges and door inserts.
Additional options that are standard on Sidewalk models are automatic stability control and traction (ASC+T), multi-function leather steering wheel, mirror caps in body colour, chrome line interior, passenger seat height adjustment, sports seats, storage compartment pack, front fog lamps, manual air conditioning, on board computer, interior light pack and white indicators.
The Mini One and Cooper Convertible Sidewalk editions come with a five-speed manual gearbox, with the more powerful Cooper S version gaining a six-speed 'box. As an option, the Mini Cooper Convertible Sidewalk is available with a CVT transmission, while you can specify the Mini Cooper S Convertible Sidewalk with a six-speed automatic gearbox. Both auto gearboxes are equipped with a Steptronic function, which provides, said, BMW, "a sportier driving experience".
Sidewalk editions of the Convertible can be accessorised with cycle, surfboard and snowboard luggage racks, as well as the John Cooper Works tuning and styling kits.
OTR prices
- Mini One Sidewalk £16,910
- Mini Cooper Sidewalk £17,960
- Mini Cooper S Sidewalk £20,235
If you specify these options on any other Mini Convertible, the cost of the extra kit would be approximately 25 per cent higher than if purchased as part of a standard package on the Sidewalk edition, said BMW. Got that?
Some would argue would say that all this is about BMW cashing in on its customers' desire to customise their cars, and bumping up its unit profits massively. But that would be too cynical for PistonHeads to suggest...
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