From Autoweek [IMGL]http://www.motoringalliance.com/forums/vbtube/photos/original/phpQfVgCp.jpg[/IMGL]Today, our illustrators have devised a rendition of what the 2011 Mini Crossman will look like, and it should fit in well within the brand’s lineup. Based on multiple spy shots, illustrators have penned this peek at future product, and it appears likely that the Crossman could get Clubman-like doors in back. We’ve previously seen this during testing on the Nürburgring, and it’s pretty close--though a bit toned down--from the concept shown last fall at the Paris motor show. Look for a production version at the Frankfurt show. Also look for all-wheel drive--a first for Mini--and increased ground clearance. The car would be assembled by Magna Steyr in Austria, which also is building the BMW X1, a sister vehicle on the same platform. Still, it’s a Mini, so look for that go-kart driving feel. And if there’s any doubt as to whether this is coming to the United States, the internal code name was Colorado. To read more visit the AutoWeek New car news, road tests, blogs, pix and expert insight section.
I find it interesting that they gave the lower doors a clubman like two-piece design but then have a single rear window and one windshield wiper. The whole setup of their rendition gives the feel of the "dutch door" feature used on GMC Safari and Chevy Astro vans. I do hope they put an actual rear window between the C and D pillars, the blind spots this current setup would leave would make this a MINI that's not so friendly in traffic.
I'm hoping for either a JCW Clubman or a Crossman for my next daily driver, when Blimey gets retired to weekend garage queen... if I could get Rally to help me rig an air-adjustable suspension on a Crossman to be able to switch between ground clearance and slammed at will.... that could rock.... Gawd... what is UP with those taillights, though?
Wow, hard to believe when everyone is trying to come up with smaller more fuel efficient cars and importing them (like Ford Fiesta from Europe) that Mini is making BIGGER cars at every step. Atleast there adding to the line and not replacing tried and true saleable units. I personally don't like the 4 door version rendered here!!! I would like to see a mini pickup style, now that maybe useful. And I agree that with the current look there will be large blind spots. They already have 4x4 engineered in a MC so the fitment would be nominal. Can the SUV be far behind???
they look like they were from an early 60's tail fin car...can't find which one. I'm sure it's just the chop and not an indication of the final design.
MINI needs to pick up the phone to Frank Stephenson over at Alfa for a styling lifeline. Next they need to hang up the phone with PSV, jettisoning that bilge they call a motor. There's a reason the '05 and '06 MCS have such a high resale value...
Pleasing to the eye The displayed rendition of the Crossman is pleasing to the eye! It should satisfy a segment of the mini market that would like 4 wheel drive and family amenities.