I am familiar with the designer and his work, He is arguably a good designer. In the case of the MINI perhaps economics weighed heavily in terms of determining the final iteration. I do not like the sharp edged tail light design, nor do I like their scale. They are far too large and devoid of the elegance that characterize the current design. Perhaps this will not become the final production design. I’ keeping my fingers crossed! Maybe we will all be pleasantly surprised when we see the actual (non-mule) production version. Time will tell. One thing that appears to be a step in the right direction is the new turbo engine albeit grossly underpowered. This should not be a problem, however, since I am sure there are many after-market tuners eagerly awaiting their opportunity to ply their craft. Bottom line: We must maintain a progressive perspective and adapt to change. Incidentally, the FIAT Abarth was a phenomenal automobile as was the Ferrari Dino.

The graceful/sexy curvilinear lines of a Ferrari will always be much more alluring than the chunky/clunkies that have become popularized by other makers. Three design elements make the current MINI noteworthy and aesthetically pleasing: The countoured fenders, distinctive headlights, curved rear quarter glass, and last but not least the molded-in appearance tail lights. Deal, or No Deal?

if yes, does that mean the the 07″ S will have a spare?

Gabe is now hating on silver! You thought the wrath of us yellows was bad… just wait!

What’s wrong with “Gasp” Silver. My Mini C is Silver and it looks way better then a few of the other colors driving around. At least it’s not as bad as Metallic Rust (I mean orange)or Purple. Sheesh.

Tim – it’s meant to be a joke since 99% of all testing mules are painted in flat black. I think we’re all tired of seeing black.

Oh, hadn’t noticed it before, but I like that “lightbox” script thing that happens when you click on the pic above. Pretty cool!

               BCNU,
             Rob in Dago

This is how the first pages translates into English:

“Erlkönig mini (2007)

Ten tariff added

At the end of of 2006 stands the second generation of the kultigen Britisher with the dealer. The mini of its classical line remains clearly grown however faithfully.

The second generation of the mini will differ clearly only in the length from the predecessor model. The successful BMW mark adds by 25 centimeters. Otherwise the new one is hardly to be differentiated from the predecessor to. The front was completely again designed: A conventional flap replaces the complex, one-piece hood. The flatter headlights are in the future firmly in the fenders installed therefore. In the back the centric exhaust and the larger lights are new. Premiere with the dealer: At the end of of 2006.”

I’d be willing to be that the chrome slats grille will be an option. Probably about $250 and you’ll get chrome mirrors and a chrome boot handle as well. Wait a minute…that sounds familiar… :)

And as mentioned, I’m sure the slats will be offered by someone as an aftermarket mod.

This new design doesn’t really bother me at all… and… gasp… I’d like to see a much bigger change next time around. I love my MINI and wouldn’t change it, but I do like change… as long as it stays different from the average car!

No complaints from me!

Gotta go buy eight more rolls of electrical tape and motor over to Ants’ so we can mess with MINI HQ!

Cheers all!

Sorry, for some reason it was in the response fields when I replied and just now saw it.