Check out the best spy shots of the year so far – the MINI SUV has finally been snapped up close.

Our spies could barely believe their luck when they managed to seek out this prototype testing in Europe. While the bodywork appears to be near-identical to a standard Clubman, there are several visual clues to this being the new rough-road MINI.
The most obvious change is the increase in ride height. This will give the MINI greater ground clearance and extra visual muscle. The large wheels sit wider in the arches than standard rims, while the wheelbase is also a little longer.
Take a look underneath the rear of the car and the purpose of this MINI becomes perfectly clear. A rear differential is visible between the wheels, proving that this model is all-wheel drive. It won’t be a true mud-plugger, but it will aim to steal sales away from Land Rover’s larger Freelander. Expected to be revealed later this year, the rough-road MINI has been confirmed for production but bosses are yet to confirm a name. Both Crossman and Monte are said to be in the running, with prices likely to start at around £20,000.

 

Cool spy photos, but I don't really believe that Mini will launch a SUV with clubman clothes... but that's only my opinion

 

Not sure how this whole episode will turn out, therefore for now I tend to try to stick with MINI's SAV terminology rather than calling it an SUV. I do think a AWD Clubman, especially in snowy climates or locations with more rustic roads (outside urban areas) would be very useful for many, many folks....almost a no-brainer. I could see it easily being raised a bit (as these photos seem to indicate) w/ beefier tires and maybe with thicker, less finicky trim pieces. If all it winds up being is a Clubman on steroids (not necessarily bigger) than calling it an SUV would be getting folks all wound up for nothing. Of course, all this is speculative at this point. Still, considering the potential need/market, I'm optimistic.