MINI Concept

MINI brand will grow to three distinct models within three years as the MINI Concept Detroit is confirmed for future production at the North American International Auto Show today.

“We will be enhancing the MINI family with a further model,” said Dr. Michael Ganal, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG and responsible for Sales and Marketing.

The latest addition will be the largest. The new MINI model will offer increased interior space and increased functionality in order to appeal to the distinctively experience-orientated and extroverted customer.

The car will be modelled on the design study MINI Concept Detroit, although it is still to be determined exactly which of the features of the show car will be carried over into production.

“This MINI combines the typical core characteristics – design, go-kart feeling and maximum individuality – with an increase in functionality. It is going to be an even better match for the active and free-spirited lifestyle of its drivers,” Dr Ganal said.

These core characteristics will be strengthened by smart solutions for additional utility space and even greater functionality, a concept which will appeal particularly to the urban trendsetter.

The additional model will be introduced to promote the future success of the MINI brand.

To date, more than 700,000 vehicles of the current MINI models have been sold, and for the first time in one year, over 200,000 units were produced in 2005.

The core idea of the new MINI model and its inspiration, MINI Concept Detroit, are drawn from the swinging sixties, when the Mini first caused a sensation on both the road and the racetrack.

MINI Concept interior

With its longer wheelbase, slightly raised roofline, sliding side windows and split rear doors, the MINI Traveller/Countryman and latterly Mini Clubman Estate were very popular with families and drivers who needed more load space but did not want to lose the thrill of driving offered by the Mini’s dynamic package.

MINI sales in Australia hit a new high in 2005, with 675 MINI Cabrio models taking total brand sales to 2,097 for the year. The arrival of the MINI Cabrio did not dent MINI hardtop sales, which underlines the substantial growth potential for MINI brand in Australia.

© Copyright 2006 Driveguide.com.au

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