But then, a car like the new Mini Cooper S pops up. It gives you a cheeky wink, makes you smile, and reminds you that driving can, and perhaps should, be good fun.

Mini will show the Cooper SE Convertible during this year's Mini Takes the States road rally, which kicks off this week. Don't hold your breath for a production version, though.

Mini has revealed an interesting fact about its limited-run Mini Cooper SE Convertible: It's the first production car with wheels made from 100% recycled ...