Detroit auto show: Mini Cooper Roadster makes an appearance

If your idea of the perfect road trip involves a tiny two-seater that leaves no room for inhibition or practicality, don’t miss the Mini Roadster at the 2012 Detroit auto show. The newest Mini will go on sale in North America in mid-2012.

This convertible is smaller in stature than most Mini models in both height and width but somehow has even more power. There’s no back seat at all, no room for children or uninvited guests, just enough space for small luggage. Let’s emphasize “small,” because we’re assuming once the convertible top is folded down, your cargo space will be severely limited.

While the 121 hp the roadster’s four-cylinder engine produces isn’t astonishing, we think it will provide plenty of extra oomph for a car of this size--and will be easy on the fuel costs too. If you insist on more power, a 181-hp turbocharged version can be yours in the Cooper S trim, and an even more exciting 208 hp will come standard in all John Cooper Works trims.

A six-speed manual transmission is the standard for the roadsters, but an automatic is available as an option.

Pricing will be revealed soon.

You can find more coverage of the 2012 Detroit auto show at autoweek.com.