Although the second-generation MINI Cooper has been on the market now for several months, the drop-top version of the car soldiered on in first-generation guise until production came to an end on August 8th. The MINI factory is now retooling to produce the convertible R57, which our spies have spotted while out testing.

As expected, the second-generation MINI Convertible will not deviate too far from the first gen-car, with styling closely related to its hard-top counterpart. As previously reported, the Convertible’s engines offering will mirror the current coupe’s, with the high-performance JCW package expected to be available at launch.

However, for 2009, the MINI Convertible with do away with its fixed rear hoops, instead opting for pop-up units — which MINI is cleverly hiding behind the camo in the back window. This change should provide the same amount of protection for occupants in the event of a rollover crash, but will allow for greater rearward visibility – as will a larger rear glass window. Another neat touch for 2009 is what MINI dubs an ‘Always Open’ gauge, which keeps track of how many miles are driven with the top down.

The 2009 MINI Cooper Convertible is slated to make its debut at January’s Detroit Motor Show, with sales set to begin in March 2009.