R55 NEW MINI Crossover spy shots!
5th Gear
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Perhaps it is too early to draw conclusions about what will finally hit the production line. Look at where the Clubman was 18 months prior to production, and it was a close follower/extension of the R56. Given that this is a new platform, that there might be some more design refinements to come.
6th Gear
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From: Central Florida
First off thanks for the pics.
My one observation (knowing that things will change) is that from this pics the driver will sit somewhat higher! The body seems narrower and taller than the Clubman.
My one observation (knowing that things will change) is that from this pics the driver will sit somewhat higher! The body seems narrower and taller than the Clubman.
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3rd Gear
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From: L.A.
This is NOT a new platform; the crossover will share its underpinnings with the R56/55.
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5th Gear
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Its a little like saying that the Highlander was not a new platform for Toyota because it shared underpinnings with the Camry.
Just saying that there is a whole lot of changes between now and when it hits a showroom.
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One other note is that the rear twin doors appear to be shaped to actually be a hatch. Also recall reading somewhere that a Mini spokesman said the twin doors would remain a Clubman-only feature. Still not in love with the shape - far too conventional SUV - at least at this point in its development.
Um, actually every thing I've read has said that this is a NEW platform that is shared with the X1 (hence the 5 lug wheels) and has clubman elements.
http://http://www.motoringfile.com/2008/04/04/a-close-look-at-the-2010-mini-crossover/
Also, the question of barn doors or not has already been answered. Thus, this is just some false camo to throw people off. (just like the boot hinge camo on the R57)
http://www.motoringfile.com/2008/07/...or-hatch-back/
Last edited by AeroJammin; Oct 28, 2008 at 06:56 PM. Reason: spelling
5th Gear
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From: Far West Texas
What I have noticed is that there is a lot of angle to the rear hatch since it has a hatchback I would have loved for it to have barn doors(less angle) and have a longer roof for more interior space.
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3rd Gear
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From: L.A.
If this was in fact based off of the same platform as the X1 then it would have a much longer dash to axle ratio than it does, which is very much in line with that of a FWD car. I think that's enough to cement the fact the R60 is indeed based off of an existing MINI dedicated platform. I could be wrong, but I'm pretty confident (as of now) that's the correct guess.
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I was reading the article in "Motoring File" ( http://www.motoringfile.com/section/r60/ ) regarding the "Crossman". They mention the false rear doors, 4 real doors, etc. I suspect that the production model will have more traditionally MINI style lights.
While it may fit nicely into BMW's expansion plans for MINI, I, as noted by "COPYWRITES", would prefer an AWD version of the "Clubman".
An additional comment : A very intelligent article regarding the "Crossman" can be found at: http://www.nathanielsalzman.com/2008...sover-concept/ .
While it may fit nicely into BMW's expansion plans for MINI, I, as noted by "COPYWRITES", would prefer an AWD version of the "Clubman".
An additional comment : A very intelligent article regarding the "Crossman" can be found at: http://www.nathanielsalzman.com/2008...sover-concept/ .
Last edited by djmcgill; Oct 29, 2008 at 12:35 AM. Reason: additional comment.
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Compare and contrast to the X1 spy shots
http://www.leftlanenews.com/bmw-x1-future.html
http://www.leftlanenews.com/cars/ima...008%2Fx1-2.jpg
A platform mate to the Mini Crossman, the new X1 appears to take design cues from across the BMW lineup. The taillights resemble those of the facelifted 3-Series, while the grille reminds us of the redesigned 7-Series. The headlights are angular and unique, and the foglights are positioned relatively high on the front fascia. The upward sweeping shoulderline and sloped rear window give the impression of an X6-like rear, despite a relatively conventional storage area.
The X1 is expected to hit the market in 2009 with full time all-wheel drive. Its overall size is also said to be comparable to the Toyota RAV4. It remains possible that the X1 will share some components with MINI’s upcoming SUV.
Other details on the production X1 remain a mystery, but drivetrain options will likely mirror those offered in the 1-Series. Since BMW is going after the fuel efficiency crowd,
The X1 is expected to hit the market in 2009 with full time all-wheel drive. Its overall size is also said to be comparable to the Toyota RAV4. It remains possible that the X1 will share some components with MINI’s upcoming SUV.
Other details on the production X1 remain a mystery, but drivetrain options will likely mirror those offered in the 1-Series. Since BMW is going after the fuel efficiency crowd,
http://www.leftlanenews.com/cars/ima...008%2Fx1-2.jpg
4th Gear
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From: Southern California
So I noticed that the 2009 MINI Calendar includes an unfamiliar sketch. It doesn't look like the interior of the current or previous car but it does looks like it has four full doors. Could be a sketch of the production Crossover interior, I reckon.
1st Gear
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The dealer had a german auto magazine in the owner's waiting lounge that had a review on the crossover mini. Seems like it is only 3 in longer then the clubman. The paint job was a bit more conservative in the ad.
The full roll back soft sunroof looked interesting too.
The full roll back soft sunroof looked interesting too.
2nd Gear
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From: Northern Fairfield County, CT
One hint that the boot "barn doors" are camo versus the real deal is the single wiper. No way that is a real wiper or it would break when the doors open. Personally, I would have loved to have the 4 door option, but the design so far makes me love the fact that I went for the Clubbie and didn't wait. Like Otra said, I am sure there are more design changes to come so I will reserve judgement.
6th Gear
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From: DC
Looks to me like MINI has succimbed to the "me too" school of automotive design. Looks the same to me as any other ugly cross-over.
But then again, even Scion compromised its integrity by abandoning its unique and eccentric designs.
But then again, even Scion compromised its integrity by abandoning its unique and eccentric designs.
6th Gear
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From: Maine
One hint that the boot "barn doors" are camo versus the real deal is the single wiper. No way that is a real wiper or it would break when the doors open. Personally, I would have loved to have the 4 door option, but the design so far makes me love the fact that I went for the Clubbie and didn't wait. Like Otra said, I am sure there are more design changes to come so I will reserve judgement.
2nd Gear
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From: Saddlebrooke, AZ
So I noticed that the 2009 MINI Calendar includes an unfamiliar sketch. It doesn't look like the interior of the current or previous car but it does looks like it has four full doors. Could be a sketch of the production Crossover interior, I reckon.