Automotive News: MINI Wagon Coming in '07

I find it interesting that the current R50/R53 convertibles will still be sold along the all new R56 Hatchback.

That is actually how BMW typically handles 3 series roll-outs. The hold over R50/R53s will probably have the new engine during this time period however.

I thought the new engine was going to be a bit to tall for the current engine compartment?

That was the speculation but there has never been anything concrete in terms of info in that area.

A new version of the convertible will arrive at about the same time.

Could this be the two-seater version!?!?

Will the new wing of the MINI plant be completed by then? Is it done already? I just wonder logistically how they’re going to produce two generations of the same car at the same time. Or is the new wing simply for the new car and they’ll convert the other line once they stop producing R50′s? Of course for all I know, the convertibles are on their own production line already, I haven’t been to the plant and the time-lapse video was produced pre-cabrio. That’d be interesting to know. I wouldn’t be super excited about having an engine not really designed for the car, but I’ll be optimistic and hope they had that all in mind in the design process.

Anybody know when the new engine comes out in Europe? Supposedly it was intended to debut in Europe a year before the U.S. in other Peugeot and BMW cars. Has that rolled out yet? It will be interesting to watch its reliability and performance. If nothing else, I’m thankful it’ll see service for a while before landing in the MINI – let them work the out any issues in the motor.

So… should I order a checkmate edition Cooper S? Or wait for the next-gen car? Decisions Decisions……

A good friend of mine with two children is VERY eager to see where this wagon goes! (i have to say i am too, even though i’ll be buying an 06!)

-jac

Is the multilink rear truly gone for the next gen MINI? Gabe?

Most likely not. The under-sides of the prototypes I’ve seen seem to have a similar suspension set-up to the current car. That was just a rumor that actually started (of all places) in the Roundel. If you look hard enough on MF, you can find some of the first mentions a couple of years back ;-)

That is actually how BMW typically handles 3 series roll-outs. The hold over R50/R53s will probably have the new engine during this time period however

Yep. In the early 90′s, they continued to sell the E30 convertible for a few years until the E36 version was available. As well the E36 M3 still being sold for a couple of years while the E46 was in the lot next to it.