Prodrive chairman David Richards has confirmed Mini is planning a two-wheel-drive version of the Countryman rally car. Work on a class R3 specification Mini, utilising the same 1.6-turbo engine – albeit in a more standard form, is expected to begin next season. Richards said: “We are looking at a two-wheel-drive car as well, it makes sense. It’s a growth area and there’s a strong market for those cars.†Prior to Richards’ comments, Prodrive’s business development director Richard Taylor had commented on Mini’s desire to see the firm’s name spread throughout the sport of rallying, rather than just at the highest level. “Mini is keen to offer competitive rally cars at all levels,†said Taylor. “But, naturally, right now we are firmly focused on the World Rally Car and Super 2000 Minis which are under development and will be running in competition soon.†Source - MaxRally