One quick note for all those looking forward to the new MINI convertible slated for a spring launch. The rear hinges that were so prominent on the previous generation convertible have apparently been redesigned and hidden from site on the new car. This means that, while the boot should operate the same way, will have much sleeker appearance when closed
Leave a comment
I liked the chrome hinges, now we look for a panio hinge or an internal hinge I think the weight of the metal wires needs increased to 200 lbs not 160. I like to use mine to tie my shoes and as a party gate.
Along with the pop-up rear roll bars, the hidden hinges will be a welcome design change. The external hinges looked like an after-thought.
Call me crazy, but I always thought the hinges looked sort of funky, especially in chrome! …in a good way, that is.
Last of the original Mini design details; Sic transit gloria mundi.
Call ME crazy but I love my (fake)chrome roll bars. Blind spots and all.
Vanwall said it.
I like the way my chrome rollbars and boot hinges look. Just one more thing that makes my <strong>MINI</strong> stick out in the crowd of imports. Are they trying to make it look like that? One just like the rest?
This is the best decision from Mini. Those hinges do look hideous. They remind me of a cheap Samsonite travel bag. By hiding them I think this convertible is going be very appealing to a lot more people, but I bet this change has to do with cost of production rather than overall aesthetics. By hiding the hinge they will be able to “standardize” this detail and not worry about additional components.
I love the chrome roll bars and hinges on my R52 and will be sorry not to see them on the R57.
More importantly, MF, any word on whether the fold down seats will allow full pass-thru to the boot — or will the new roll-bar system only allow a narrow pass-thru as in the BMW ‘verts?
Shame, another reference to the classic Mini down the tubes.
I think you meant “hidden from sight” and not “site.”
Just the compulsive spelling nerd in me coming out…
I liked the hinges. I had no problem with them.