Many Mini fans don't like the idea of a car like this being badged as a Mini, but I like it. The Countryman is reported to be about the same size as a Honda CR-V, with optional AWD, and the same 1.6 liter engine with or w/o turbo used in current Mini models. Seems to me that this bigger, heavier car will be underpowered, even with the turbo. Would be nice to see a bigger engine.

 

"Countryman"? I thought it was going to be named the Crossman...

 

It's still officially unnamed. Countryman is the presumed name since BMW Group recently filed for a trademark on the word 'Countryman.' Crossman was just used as a filler name while there was no leads to a possible name. Since it is a Crossover Utility Vehicle.

 

Well Peugeot is coming out with a coupe that has the MCS JCW engine. It is reported that this engine has been tuned to provide an extra 10hp. Maybe that could be incorporated to the new SUV and to later MINI models.

 

There should be more space in the engine room to work with, so I wouldn't be surprised to see BMW's latest 2.0 Diesel engine as well.

 

Perhaps they should call it the Maxi, or the Moxi.

 

Which would also fit the Mini history - the Austin Countryman was the original Mini estate/wagon, with the non-structural, but real, ash wood frame bolted on the outside.

Andrew

 

uh, not quite-- it's "concept" name was Colorado... the term "Crossman" is an assumption as to its possible production name. still could be, if there's no Crossman in use elsewhere. registering Countryman is an interesting bit of news, but I thought that Countryman was going to be a sub-model of the Clubman that featured the wood siding?

http://www.motoringfile.com/2007/10/...etails-emerge/