Thread: Next generation MINI in development (awd maybe?)
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Old Aug 22, 2005 | 04:27 PM
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MrFatbooty
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The next-generation Mini range will have six distinct body styles, according to leaked documents.

The new Mini is due in 2007, and as well as straight replacements for the existing three-door hatch and two-door cabrio versions, there will be five-door, roadster, pickup and wagon derivatives.

The new Mini will come in two wheelbase lengths, allowing the development of three new versions. The long-wheelbase versions will be a Clubman five-door, with rear-hinged rear passenger doors like the Mazda RX-8 and van-style twin rear doors, reminiscent of the 1960s original Mini Countryman wagon.

There will also be a three-door wagon with flexible cargo space, and a two-door pickup, which would see a revival of the Mini Moke name. The original Moke was a utilitarian, stripped-down Mini off-roader.

In addition, there will be a new short-wheelbase roadster derivative, which will have a removable hardtop in place of the cabrio's canvas roof.

The new models are designed to broaden the appeal of the Mini, while using a common platform and not making radical changes to the Mini's looks. The biggest mechanical changes will be new engines: BMW diesels made in England rather than Brazil, and Peugeot diesels in place of Toyota motors used at present.

The new Mini should debut at the 2007 Geneva Motor Show, with the first of the new variants, the Clubman, arriving in 2008.

http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do...ticleId=106925
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