BMW Looks Ready to Build on MINIs Success by Introducing More New Models in Unprecedented Market Segments

Late last year, I reported that MINI was contemplating all-wheel drive for its compact sportster, the Cooper (see automotive news section for Dec 20, 2004: Is MINI Cooper to get All-Wheel Drive Option). In that article, I assumed that the all-wheel drive Cooper would bring a new level of performance to the Cooper, helping to deliver neutral steering as opposed to the understeer that its current front-wheel drive layout defaults to. There was, however, one very obvious avenue which I failed to explore - the option of a MINI-based SUV.

At the beginning of May, BMWs DesignWorks

Late last year, I reported that MINI was contemplating all-wheel drive for its compact sportster. (Photo: Alexandra Straub, American Auto Press)

BMWs DesignWorks studios has released a preliminary sketch of a road-biased compact SUV. (Photo: BMW DesignWorks)

The sketch depicts a slightly longer, taller hatchback version of the familiar MINI shape. Heavily rolled wheel arches that are finished in matte plastic (like todays Cooper), the trademark floating roof, minimal overhangs, blacked-out pillars and MINIs traditionally cute, smiling face will definitely be key features to link this to the brands other models. Elsewhere, the design team began to play with shapes and details that are foreign

With a four-door wagon, two-seat speedster and the possibility of a pickup truck all in the loop, an SUV doesnt seem too far-fetched of a proposal. (Photo: Artists Rendering)

The biggest shock is that the rear doors utilize a rear-hinged system. Like the Rolls Royce Phantom or the Mazda RX-8, this adventurous MINI would seemingly receive these doors to better aid access to the rear portions of the vehicle. While costly, the vehicle would most likely be marketed as a premium product, allowing for a slightly higher price tag. Another feature visible from the side is the cars angled

While the MINI and a few of its potential derivatives would reflect upon short-lived models of the past, a modern SUV would be groundbreaking stuff. (Photo: BMW DesignWorks)

As crazy as it sounds, the whole idea makes perfect sense, as it works in conjunction with my previous report on the inner workings at MINI. My semi-serious April Fools story (see automotive news section for April 1, 2005: Skunk Works MINI Cooper Boasts V8 Power and 7-Speed SMG Gearbox) unveiled potential models which insiders suggest are on their way. The new models would point MINI in an entirely new direction, expanding from the current three-door hatchback and two-door convertible of the current generation. With a four-door wagon, two-seat

BMW announced during the first quarter of 2005 that it would be upgrading and expanding its MINI plant in Oxford, England. The expansion would make room for new design derivatives. (Photo: Artists Rendering)

But as with all foreshadowed models, there are issues which must be faced. The idea of a MINI SUV is very radical; corporate bosses arent quite convinced that people would take to such a non-traditional vehicle. While the MINI and a few of its potential derivatives, such as a two-seat speedster or a wagon, would reflect upon short-lived models of the past, a modern SUV is groundbreaking stuff.

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