More MINI Crossovers in the Works

Rumors surrounding MINI's future product lineup hinted at the possibility to see even smaller models to be launched in the near future, in an effort of the British carmaker to tackle the growing demand of small vehicles. But MINI USA boss Jim McDowell said in an interview at the Chicago Auto Show that MINI will most likely remain the same in size, so no smaller or bigger models will be launched in the near future. He hasn't denied though the possibility for new crossovers to be launched soon.

“I don’t anticipate a third size or that we’ll ever have large MINIs,” he was quoted as saying by AutoGuide.com.

“MINI will continue to push the limits with our concept studies, which are open for discussion and criticism, allowing us to incorporate some or all of the study elements into a future production vehicle,” said McDowell. “While the size of such concepts will no doubt vary, the MINI product family will remain true to its values of ensuring a ‘premium small car’ experience; and to do so in the U.S., we are likely to stay within the size range that is currently established.”

The first new product to be launched with a MINI badge is the Paceman concept shown in Detroit at the 2011 North American International Auto Show. The vehicle will be manufactured in the same place as MINI Countryman, in Graz, Austria, with operations to be the exclusive responsibility of Magna Steyr.

The concept was powered by a John Cooper Works 1.6 liter twin-scroll turbocharged four-cylinder unit that delivers 211 hp and a maximum torque of 280 Nm (207 lb-ft), which also comes with an Overboost function.