Fresh from the launch of the Clubman (see road tests on Thursday), MINI is now working on a new Convertible model due to go on sale in 2009.

Expect the drop-top to follow the lead taken by the hatchback model in its metamorphosis from Mark I to Mark II, which means a bigger car with more efficient engines.

There’s no word on a diesel model, but expect the 1.4, 1.6 and 1.6 turbo units found in the hatchbacks to make it through to production.

The roof remains a cloth item with electric operation. The Mark I Convertible continues on sale until the new version is launched.