Here is hoping the South African summer extends well into the second quarter of this year – because that is when MINI launches the latest iteration of its convertible, dubbed the Sidewalk.

There are two engine versions for the edition model of the open-top premium small car that is characterised by variants of the exterior paintwork, soft top design, rim styling and interior fittings developed especially for the model.

Thanks to the Deep Laguna metallic body paint finish presented for the first time with the edition model, it is instantly recognisable. The expressive blue tone accentuates the surfaces of the vehicle and the sporty character of the open four-seater is additionally emphasised by the model-specific bonnet stripes with contrasting colour edges.

The MINI Yours Softtop Sidewalk offers protection against precipitation or when the sun is simply beating down too strongly. The version of the fully automatic textile soft top, specially designed for the edition model, which can be opened or closed electrically and almost silently in 18 seconds, features an artistically woven-in arrow graphic in the particularly high-quality finish typical of MINI Yours.

The 17 inch light-alloy Scissor Spoke 2-tone wheels of the new MINI Convertible Sidewalk are also a model-specific design feature. A further contribution to the model’s appearance is made by the side indicator bezels, known as side scuttles, which bear the ‘Sidewalk’ model designation.

 The edition model features brushed aluminium door sills bearing the ‘Sidewalk’ lettering. Inside, the occupants sit on seats in the exclusive MINI Yours Leather Lounge Sidewalk variant. Their anthracite-coloured leather surfaces are combined with contrasting seams in Petrol and Energetic Yellow. In addition, braided piping in Petrol and the ‘Sidewalk’ logo add touches of individual style. The doormats have matching dark Petrol surrounds and Energetic Yellow seams.

The interior surfaces of the new MINI Convertible Sidewalk also have a model-specific design. The backlit decorative trim on the passenger side in Piano Black is combined with accents in petrol and silver. In addition, the elliptical door trim is in Petrol. The sports leather steering wheel with its discreet ‘Sidewalk’ logo at the bottom and contrasting seams is a further highlight in the edition model’s interior.

The drive range for the new MINI Convertible Sidewalk is made up of two petrol engines with MINI TwinPower Turbo technology. The new MINI Cooper Convertible Sidewalk is powered by a 1,5-litre 3-cylinder engine, which produces 100 kW of power or the 141 kW 4-cylinder engine.

All engines are combined with a 7-speed Steptronic transmission with double clutch as standard, however, the MINI Cooper S Convertible Sidewalk can be equipped with a 7-speed Steptronic Sport transmission with double clutch.