You know, the Mini Countryman is pretty excellent. We weren't sure about how a Mini-badged crossover would be received, but after spending some time behind the wheel, we're pretty impressed with the overall package. That in mind, we wouldn't necessarily frown at the notion of a production version of the two-door Paceman concept from the 2011 Detroit Auto Show.

The folks at CarScoop have stumbled upon what appear to be official patent filings for the Paceman's design. Of course, without receiving any official word from Mini (or parent company BMW), it's still unclear if the Paceman will go into production, though we're betting that the Countryman-based two-door will, in fact, come to market.

As far as design goes, these patent filings still stand true to the design of the original concept car that debuted back in January. Fine by us, as we were pretty smitten with the pint-sized soft-roader when we first laid eyes upon it. If produced, we'd bet that the Paceman will share powertrain options with the Countryman, and that Mini's All4 all-wheel-drive system will be available.

Check out the full slate of patent filings in our high-res image gallery, and compare them to the original Paceman concept in the secondary gallery [at Autoblog].

 

Motoring File reported on this today as well. The R61 will not be named Paceman, though, and the rear bumper will have to be redesigned to meet US impact standards. It will be available in late 2013.

 

I know this is an old thread, but just correcting my previous post. The Paceman, or whatever they decide to finally name it, will be available late this year, 2012! Is anyone out there considering to add this to their stable?

 

hmmmm...I was thinking Clubman, but this could change everything! Hope to hear more!

 

I don't drive my current MINI's over the winter, and it would be really nice to have the option of an AWD 'justa' Cooper to deal with the snow and ice. I'm sure you'll be seeing lots more info as the release date approaches. www.motoringfile.com has a section on this model, (R61) but just a few articles so far.

 

Most likely, I will be adding this to the stable. Been following its progress for the last yr+. Show me to the sign-up sheet..

 

Have you decided what version? S? AWD or not? I would think dealers would start taking orders this fall...production is slated to begin in November.

 

so, should be a "Paceman" section since they are going to put this model into production or will it fall in the countryman section?

 

Since it will have a dedicated production code, R61, it should have its own dedicated section, but it won't be called the Paceman. What it will be called is anybody's guess at this point.