MORE space is needed in Mini's trophy cabinet after What Car? Magazine awarded the Mini One Convertible best in class at its awards ceremony in London last week. The Mini One Convertible beat competitors such as the Peugeot 206CC and VW Beetle Cabrio to win the esteemed award.

David Motton, editor of What Car? Magazine, said: "The drop-top Mini's arrival was eagerly awaited and it didn't disappoint. The Convertible hasn't lost any of the hard-top's handling ability. With prodigious grip, responsive steering and a snappy gearshift, the Mini provides a really engaging drive. Prices are competitive against rivals, and the Mini really shines through on resale values."

The Mini One and Cooper Convertible went on sale in the summer of 2004, with the Mini Cooper S Convertible launched two months later. An incredible 7,000 owners are now enjoying the open-top model, with the Mini Convertible leading convertible car sales in the fourth quarter of 2004.