OK, just got the February Motor Trend, and on page 14 they have the 2009 Mini SUV.... yikes! What have they done ?!? It looks like some kind of acid trip.

Amanda

 

Don't worry....there'll be lots and lots of more info on this as it's still a ways off, and we've seen little image-wise that has any credibility. The gossip seems to be more about an AWD Clubman. My hope is that MINI gets the Clubman/SAV thing out of it's system (got nothing against it, though) so it can get back to exploring the smaller side of the brand.

 

I did see this article and gave it a browse...it states:
"A designer tells Motor Trend his team worked up a proposal three years ago for a 165-inch-long Mini SUV, but BMW management says no Mini should be more than about four meters (157.5 inches) long."

And:
"So the crossover will be slightly longer than the new Clubman. It'll be higher for ground clearance and to further improve interior space. It won't get those clap-hands doors: "They're just a Clubman thing," our source says. They also compromise body rigidity too much for a sport/utility."

Also:
"Mini design chief Gert Hildebrand has criticized designers "who build a monument to themselves." Staying true to Mini heritage and evolving the lineup's styling...is the right tack, he says."

I found the piece on-line here.

 

I bought the MINI 'cause I liked it. Simple. I don't care about its heritage (although I will use it when it helps an argument). I don't need a cult. I don't need to criticize every other car out there ---- my Mini has more faults than any other car I've owned. But, if MINI produces the suv and my current mini doesn't fall apart by the time that happens, I will most likely get one, if it substantially retains the Mini look, because it will have AWD and 4 doors and still have a look I like.

 

I can't believe they're gonna make an SUV. I thought the convertible was a deviant... but an SUV! Also, I've heard that it's not going to be made in Brittain. Issigonis is flipping in his grave.

 

I for one am getting really tired of this kind of discussion:impatient. And if it must carry on, please take it to General MINI talk, where lots of it goes on.

This is a club forum, period.

Mark

 

Mini SUV is a class of small sport utility vehicles with a length under 4100 mm (165 in). This class should not be confused with compact SUV