Donna-

I'd say that at lease 50 percent of the time it would be just me, top down and an ear to ear grin. Maybe 25 percent of the time me, two kids and dog, 20 percent one kid and dog, and maybe 5 percent four of us, no dog. Like out to dinner or a movie. I can't think of a time where all four of us have ever gone anywhere with the dog that we didn't take an ungodly pile of gear, and done it with the Tahoe. The mini would essentially be a commuter car for me, 30-60 miles a day, and an occasional short road trip car for two of us at most. I'm lucky to live in such a beautifull part of the rocky mountains, and it's a shame to spend so much time in a car and not see the blue sky and mountains along the way, thus the need for a cabrio!

Pete

 

Pete, I think based on the additional information you've given, a cabrio would do very well. You should take your dog down to the dealer for a test fit to dispel any doubts.

On your other questions. The plastic on the tailgate seems pretty sturdy to me. The brochures suggest that it is suitable for sitting on. It's very easy to replace if necessary (I've taken it off while installing the OEM rear view camera). The brochures from the dealer show rear seat hip room to be 50.9 inches for the hardtop and 39 inches for the cabrio.