Second that! The extra cost and worse gas mileage are NOT part of Mini concepts. I have no doubt that the awd will enhance the performance equation, but did everyone forget what the original was all about??? Besides the Mini is about having fun, not furious. If you want a car that does 0-60 in 5 sec. and top speed of 150 mph, look at Boxster, M3, STi, etc. Certainly the Minis are not about beating these mentioned cars in acceleration, but having more fun while driving. Maybe I'm too old school here.
Second this. What Mini can do is offer more cars in their line-up to really cater different needs and tastes to aficionados around the world. Perhaps the Cooper and the Clubman would make a nice pair.