On the brink of extinction: Stylish new 2025 Mini Cooper Convertible confirmed for Australia to add life to shrinking segment that premium rivals from Audi and BMW have left behind

There's a bit of life left in convertibles yet.

Mini has confirmed the updated Cooper Convertible will arrive in the first quarter of next year, adding some life to the shrinking drop-top segment.

The Mini Cooper Convertible is a rarity and has no real rivals as premium brands such as Audi and BWW have ditched their smaller drop tops. Only larger, more expensive options remain or sports cars such as the Mazda MX-5.

Head of Mini Stefan Richmann said the new Convertible brings plenty of tech and connectivity in a stylish package.

"We are very proud to be able to offer our customers a true convertible in the current Mini family. Our new Mini Cooper Convertible offers unmistakable, hallmark driving fun, coupled with boundless freedom and great emotions,” said Richmann.

Under the bonnet the Cooper Convertible has a choice of two 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol engines making either 120kW/250Nm or 150kW/300Nm. A more potent JCW version will follow.

Mini claims the convertible will have the same drive experience customers expect from the brand.

Anti-roll bars and suspension and dampers tuned for agile handling make for improved cornering ability.

The Convertible brings the same styling changes that debuted on the standard hatchback version, which is an evolution from the original design.

There is a range of alloy wheels from 16- to 18-inch and there are the unmistakably Mini circle LED headlights.

It is bigger than before, and has grown slightly in all directions.

The cloth top can be opened in a little as 18 seconds at speeds up to 30km/h and closed in just 15 seconds.

The boot is tiny at 160 litres when the roof is down but swells to 215 litres when the roof is up.

Inside there is the round OLED multimedia display from the standard Mini, paired with a digital driver display.

Its virtual assistant will respond to 'Hey Mini' commands and there is a range of advanced safety and driver aids.

Mini Australia will reveal full details and local prices closer to the car’s launch date, but expect it to come at a premium over the hatchback's $43,990 before on-road costs starting price.