MINI Roadster
As it’s not a hybrid, the MINI Roadster might not seem like a car that shoppers for alternative energy vehicles would fancy. This was also said about the standard MINI Cooper, yet the Cooper’s most cross-shopped car is none other than the Toyota Prius. Could the Roadster continue this trend?
Those who would consider a MINI vs. a Prius are probably less interested in the amazing fuel economy of the Prius (though it’s certainly a factor) and more impressed by the car’s look and the image it portrays. These “lifestyle buyers” are exactly the sort of shopper that would also consider purchasing a MINI Roadster.
Fuel economy numbers have yet to be released for the Roadster, but if they’re anything like the Coupe, expect digits in the high 30s on the highway – not in Prius territory, but again, this unlikely competitor is not only about fuel efficiency.
Motivation
In base form the Roadster is powered by a 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine making 121 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 114 pound-feet of torque at 4250 rpm. It gets a 0-60 time of 8.7 seconds, but in true MINI fashion will likely feel faster. Despite some added weight, surprisingly, acceleration is improved over the convertible Cooper model, due in part to sportier gearing.
