MINI Cooper is expanding its line-up to include the 2012 MINI Roadster — the first 2-door convertible in the brand’s history, and the 6th model option in its family. Using powerplants snatched from other models, the 2012 MINI Roadster’s naturally aspirated or turbo charged 1.6 liter inline-4 cylinder engine will offer between 122 hp (for the standard Roadster) up to 211 hp for the high performance package Cooper Works version. There will also be a SD Roadster option with a turbocharged diesel engine generating 143 horsepower. The idea of the Roadster is to offer MINI enthusiasts a fun, spirited Go-Kart like drive with the utmost in safety features — including stainless steel rollover bars with front padding. The car will come in two non-metallic and six metallic paint shades, with an extra Chili Red option offered exclusively for the MINI John Cooper Works Roadster. One interesting note is that the 2-seater’s soft-top is manually operated, shaving a lot of weight from the car but possibly annoying spoiled motorists accustomed to push-button accessibility. In addition the 2012 MINI Cooper Roadster comes with a slew of high tech options, such as: Harman Kardon hi-fi loudspeaker system, MINI navigation system, MINI Connected features including Driving Excitement app, web radio, Google services, RSS news feeds, Mission Control, and in-car use of Facebook and Twitter. Look for the 2012 MINI Cooper Roadster hitting showrooms early next year.