The R60: What Do You Want to See?

Sections: R60 (Crossover) Nov 6th, 2006 85 Comments

Earlier this year we had several sources tell us about a proposed fourth MINI model to be built as part of the 2nd generation MINI model run. Details were scarce but from what we could tell there were several ideas of what this model could be.

One of the more (seemingly) outlandish ideas was that MINI was considering a two seat speedster model as a performance halo of sorts. Small, sleek and possibly not front-wheel drive and maybe not even built in the UK, the MINI speedster would unquestionably be an interesting move for the brand.

However the one rumor that we heard mentioned from several of our sources throughout the past year was an AWD MINI of some kind. This rumor had the R58 take on the form of an AWD MINI Coupe. The styling would be overly aggressive with a raised stance for increased ground clearance. Think of it as a butch R56. Two doors, AWD, and very aggressive looking.

While we expect a plans to be formalized soon, MINI has yet to decide on a specific direction with the R58 model. We expect they will finalize the production plans of this new model by the end of this year and we could see something new and exciting roll out of the Oxford Plant about a year after the R57 Convertible’s debut in the spring of 2009.

With the final decision yet to be made that means your opinion could still matter and may still have some influence. So we’re asking our always opinionated MotoringFile readers to tell us what you want to see in the R58. Does the idea of a brand stretching speedster make sense? How about an AWD go anywhere coupe? Or maybe you want to shoot for the stars? 250hp? Lightweight? Back to basics? Lambo doors? Whatever it is, let’s hear your idea for the R58.

Written By: Gabe

85 Comments

Bob Nov 6th, 2006 Link

Two seater coupe.

Bwana Yak Nov 6th, 2006 Link

pickup truck

Eelke Nov 6th, 2006 Link

I’d like to see a new Moke. Not just a normal coupe with higher ride height and some extra black plastic, but an open top leisure car, maybe even without doors. And contrary to the original Moke, some serious off-road potential. I see something that heralds back to the buggies of the seventies, much like the pictures that were released a while back. http://www.autobild.de/aktuell/neuheiten/artikel.php?artikel_id=7282

A speedster (one of the more popular modifications for the classic, right behind a “normal” convertible) also sounds cool, but I think it might be too close to the regular convertible.

Avitor Nov 6th, 2006 Link

What Do You Want to See?

A shade of metallic blue I don’t hate, for one thing. If it’s going to be AWD I’d prefer a WRC competitive hatchback before they do a Moke. A proper Rally car would be getting more in touch with the Mini’s roots than a Moke, in my opinion. I still think a Moke is important, but I think it should wait until the R59 or whatever.

Once Mini’s are winning more rallies than the Targa Newfoundland, then I want to see a Fiat Panda 4×4 killing, Land Rover swatting MINI Moke.

Ron Nov 6th, 2006 Link

AWD seems to be an odd direction for MINI – but then again I’ve also been surprised at how much BMW is embracing AWD in its regular models too. Let’s see some RWD models. If they could add RWD, balance the weight of the car (and still keep it light), and add an SMG transmission, the MINI would be pretty much perfect. It’d be what the 3 series should be.

Ian C. Nov 6th, 2006 Link

Both? ;)

klf23 Nov 6th, 2006 Link

Well the original Moke took the styling of the lorries (large trucks) of the time and miniturised it. They were utility vehicles, very simplistic/minimalistic – great for the beach (no carpet/doors).

So the new Moke should take the styling of the modern lorries and miniturise it, make it simple and utilitarian but modern. Keep the lack of doors / roof as much as possible. It doesn’t need to be an off road vehicle, just very practical.

Gabe Nov 6th, 2006 Link

IÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ve also been surprised at how much BMW is embracing AWD in its regular models too.

I think BMW sees AWD as a necessary evil for selling cars in the “sissy-fied” US market. Notice the lack of a true sport package option on all AWD BMWs. It will be interesting to see if BMW believes the same thing about the MINI brand when it comes to the execution of AWD.

dr Nov 6th, 2006 Link

I like the idea of a two seater better than a mini suv.
I like AWD, However I think when MINI brings in AWD it should be available on all models not just one.

another fake off road like vehicle seems counter to everything the MINI brand is…..but then again, so is a fake hood scoop

a utilitarian moke is a good idea but the element and scion xb are really what a modern moke would be

To revive a old rumor…a two seat MINI built on the z4 platform as a MINI Triumph would be pretty viable

Timothy Nov 6th, 2006 Link

It won’t be a three wheeled vehicle like the now departed Reliant Robin. It won’t be a limo….

How about a gasoline-electric hybrid MINI, including a plug-in option? Finding room for the batteries would be a challenge, but it might be possible using every nook (such as underneath the seats).

Mark Nov 6th, 2006 Link

How about a pick-em-up truck that handles like a MINI. Maybe rear seats like the old BRAT, and has some sort of off road capability. (perhaps a flux capacitor??)

Siddhartha Nov 6th, 2006 Link

260-275 HP, supercharged and turbocharged, AWD, adjustable coilovers, adjustable camber plates. 22 mm rear swaybar, no back seat like the GP, Recaros seats, 5 point harness, thicker suede steering wheel, more aerodynamic body with less drag. Move over STi!

Matthew Nov 6th, 2006 Link

I would love to see a genuine off-road capable MINI. I really could use one right about now and I certainly don’t feel like buying a Jeep.

dickdavid Nov 6th, 2006 Link

This is more BMW and less MINI, but I would love to see a vehicle that recaptures the essence of the BMW 2002s. The new MINI does this to a certain degree in spirit, however it would be nice to have something that follows the grassroots design of the ol’ coupe. Keep it an inexpensive, simple, no-frills driver’s car with a trunk.

indimini Nov 6th, 2006 Link

How about a new take on the Austin Maxi? The car has ties to Alec Issigonis so it stays in the family.

A new MAXI would be to the MINI what BMW’s 5 or 7 series is to the 3 series.

TallyHo! Nov 6th, 2006 Link

A two seat roadster has my vote! Resurrect the Triumph marquee and sell them alongside MINIs.

GoMiniGo Nov 6th, 2006 Link

Jacked up AWD MINI! no, no, no and more no!

The world does not need another mini-SUV.

I want a rally inspired AWD MINI that can compete with the STI/EVO of the world. Yes, true rally cars have a little better ground clearance but I do not plan to play Colin McRae on the gravel roads. Give us something that is like the old Ford RS2000!

GMG

Larry Nov 6th, 2006 Link

Make mine an AWD, diesel, Mini Traveler!

Jon Nov 6th, 2006 Link

Speedster. It should have more aggressive styling than the current cabriolet. a more swept-back windshield, maybe a hard-top versus a canvas top, which would work like the new Pontiac G6 convertible, look like the Audi TT hard top. Basically, be more aerodynamic, versus brick-like.

Of course, this speedster would have to be at least 200 bhp, and preferably RWD!

iNomis Nov 6th, 2006 Link

The Triumph ideas (Does MINI own the Triumph name or do the cycle folks?) gave me an idea. Do a MINI version of the Bug Eye Sprite! This would be the speedster. RWD and or AWD. 2 models, a base in the low 20s and an S model for around 30k. The Z4 platform is probably too heavy to be MINI like.

BobbyS Nov 6th, 2006 Link

A six wheeled Renault replica.

Yegor H. Nov 6th, 2006 Link

Speedster and AWD.

Hector M. Nov 6th, 2006 Link

I want to see a AWD with 240 Hp, and more aggressive aerodynamics

j Nov 6th, 2006 Link

hardtop speedster RWD (w/ AWD becoming an option across the board) with at least 220-230 hp

Tom Nov 6th, 2006 Link

How about a MINI van. Not a soccer parent mobile, but maybe something like a Scion xB meets VW Microbus… probably beyond completely impractical from a cost-effective production standpoint.

Evan Nov 6th, 2006 Link

Banish the limits of FWD by making an AWD MINI with an aluminum bonnet and boot, a carbon fiber roof, 50/50 wt distribution, short spaced 6spd manual, 300+hp.

The MINI is traditionally FWD, it made FWD popular worldwide. The MINI is small enough to make it work. But when anyone starts pumping more than 200hp through only the front wheels, it pushes the limits. To get a truly M3-esque level of performance and keeping in mind MINI would never be only RWD, AWD with a heavy diet is the way to go.

So, let’s see what happens…

BumbleBee Nov 6th, 2006 Link

When I read AWD, I don’t think tiny SUV; I think bore the engine out to 2 liters and build a WRC competitor.

Ian F Nov 6th, 2006 Link

I nice, efficient pick-up would be nice. As mentioned previously, similar to the Brat or the old VW Rabbit P/U. Add an optional, removable, ladder-rack style system for carrying a full sheet of plywood. Then wrap the whole thing around an efficient diesel engine with a manual transmission and I think such a vehicle would sell well.

PaulGraz Nov 6th, 2006 Link

2-seat fastback – with hatch or trunk, doesn’t matter. No AWD! (Like we need something else to make the fuel economy worse…) I’m thinking something like a MINI version of the Porsche 911…

jeffng65 Nov 6th, 2006 Link

Speedster: smaller, lower, even shorter overhangs, and faster than the R56.

ichor Nov 6th, 2006 Link

how about a mini marcos?

what i’d really want is something cutting edge in the hybrid/hydrogen/whatever department…

Brian Nov 6th, 2006 Link

MINI basically needs a more powerful car to be more noticed in the hard core performance world. AWD will allow more power to be usable.

I’d suggest AWD as an option on all the MCS, MCSc and JCW.

Also an AWD open 2 seater would look really good.

Morgan Moore Nov 6th, 2006 Link

Both an AWD speedster and a true WRC caliber, AWD hatch.

Jack07734 Nov 6th, 2006 Link

I agree with BumbleBee.

BumbleBee Nov 6th, 2006 Link When I read AWD, I donÃ¢â‚¬â„¢t think tiny SUV; I think bore the engine out to 2 liters and build a WRC competitor.

It’s time MINI went back to it’s roots in rally. Therefore I feel that a spec legal WRC car is in order.

Cheers, Jack

Mike Nov 6th, 2006 Link

2 doors, four seats, AWD, no jacking up, and lots of performance.

The Seeker Nov 6th, 2006 Link

MCS JCW GK (Giant Killer) AWD. 2 seats. 250bhp. 2500lbs. Base price, $25,000. That would do it !

And loose the center stack.

Seth L Nov 6th, 2006 Link

AWD competitor to the likes of MazdaSpeed 3, WRX, and A3/S3

Or, true 4-door MINI.

Siddhartha Nov 6th, 2006 Link

Seth, the current JCW MCS has no trouble with any of those cars. Bump it up to the well driven STi and EVO VIII range and you’ve got a real bomb.

rustysteel Nov 6th, 2006 Link

How about a real Cooper ‘S’ with radio-delete, no A/C, no traction control, wind up windows, bascially keep it as light as possible. Do this with a regular Cooper, no turbo, and make it cheaper than the regualr Cooper. Kind of a Spec-Miata type vehicle for those track/AutoX enthusiasts. Ok keep the radio as it’s part of the speedo, but everything else is gone and add sport suspension. Make it flat Black, perfect.

JP Nov 6th, 2006 Link

Since BMW owns the Triumph name why not a sports car with a hint of TR4 which has become a classic. The car would compete with Mazda and Saturn two seaters.

AlwaysOpenCharlie05 Nov 6th, 2006 Link

As far as I’m concerned, the MINI is already a Porsche 911, so it doesn’t much matter to me.

Although, if you must know…

A speedster would be the bomb. A 2-seater go-kart with a really low suspension, a 350+ hp engine, and a 6-speed box? I’d buy eighteen, if money grew on trees! As long as it takes the styling cues from the R53 generation. Make the MINI a high-end super-fast cousin, with a true driver’s car’s handling, and only the nicest possible interior materials. Kind of like MINI’s take on a smaller, more bulldog-esque Aston Martin Vanquish S. Or, god forbid, a Spyker. Just really high-end, well crafted materials and super-advanced technology. I’d buy it… convert all the Mercedes-Benz buyers into MINI drivers.

But the MINI is perfect just the way it is, so if what we’ve got goes away… I might have to cry.

snid Nov 6th, 2006 Link

2-seater, speedster. Oh yeah!

No giant killer, AWD, 300hp thing. There are enough of those out there already (STi, evo, audi S4/RS4).

I want an Elise / Exige killer. Add more lightness.

ClubSport is another one of my dreams for a MINI. Ditch all the creature comforts and keep it cheap.

The one drawback to an open top car is to take it on the racetrack it will need a real rollbar – the little hoops on the current convertible are not enough for track use. So, an open top design that doesn’t look horrid with a real rollbar would be nice… the Miata pulls it off well.

JohnDough Nov 6th, 2006 Link

“Larry Nov 6th, 2006 Link Make mine an AWD, diesel, Mini Traveler!”

Here in Western Montana, Subaru Outback capital of the world, I’m thinking that would sell.

Avitor Nov 6th, 2006 Link

How’s about an AWD with black (non-metallic) paint job, a turbine engine, computer controlled with an artificially intelligent operating system, a bouncing red “scanner” in the bonnet scoop, turbo boost, ejector seats, and an annoying voice?

Wraith Nov 6th, 2006 Link

i would really like to see some sort of MINI rally car type idea. bore out the motor to 2.0 liters, AWD, around 225hp. something along the lines of an Evo or WRX

Nathaniel Salzman Nov 6th, 2006 Link

Avitor, you forgot the ejector seat.

moinimalist Nov 6th, 2006 Link

Remember the broadspeed coupe? travellers long wheelbase would balance longer tail. Also like the idea of 4wd traveller possibly with dual range gearbox

CooperS Nov 6th, 2006 Link

We need a MINI Pickup or panel van

minimalist Nov 6th, 2006 Link

apologies didnt remember to well myself car was called broadspeed gt

Dave Mac Mini Nov 6th, 2006 Link

AWD (more for Canadian winters, but my experience with an Audi S4 tells me that AWD is a great performance booster). 250-300 hp, JCW kit. Otherwise. I’m happy with the car as it is now

sandm4130 Nov 6th, 2006 Link

evo/sti/audi……..Whaaa 300horses…….Whaaa

best comparison…it is like a porsche, no…yes

I want more grip less slip a litte more horse maybe with power assist to the rear lighter wheels with non runflats stock. and a classier interior. I want a porsche but i am poor so i have what i have 210hp/jcw mcs from feb/2006 with 22k on the odo.

I drove it 245 miles today down to starved rock and back and i was on it………whaa whaaaaaaa

can’t you hear that supercharger whine…

I want them not to mess it up.

MillieTheMini Nov 6th, 2006 Link

Regardless of what changes happen and are implemented, I hope the powers-that-be remember that “small is beautiful/small is big” – that to me is a large essence of what a Mini/MINI is – the ability of a small car to surprise one by it’s ‘bigness’ inside, or by it’s ability to compete on an equal footing with bigger, more powerful cars.

But there’s a constant clamour to make the car ‘bigger’ – literally. Wider seats, bigger cup holders, bigger rear view mirror,bigger side mirrors – and now more luggage space, more rear seat space, four doors instead of two, AWD, more power, etc etc. Nothing wrong with asking for any of these, to be sure, but let them run rampant and the MINI will morph into something else altogether. At that point, the marque could lose it’s luster and appeal, and become ‘just like any other carmaker’.

That’s why I find the evolution of the Porsche 911 to be quite amazing – Porsche figured out what the essence of the car was (shape, rear engine placement), stuck to that, and changed everything else. Yes, the current 911 is bigger than the original, but the overall proportions have remained the same. It’s my hope that MINI will follow this path. If they do, the car will truly become a classic, IMHO.

Zeke Nov 6th, 2006 Link

The speedster thing sounds nice, as long as it was different enough to distinguish it from the R56. Keep the power and weight low Ã¢â‚¬” under 2500lb plz. Stick with FWD, it works fine, and for chrissakes make the center speedo smaller. Consider it weight savings.

. Somehow I see the real R58 being yet another AWD “crossover.”

sandm4130 Nov 6th, 2006 Link

i told you it is a porsche.

evo/sti are eye sores their shape is like a well chiseled man that reaks of testosterone.

cars should be like a good woman strong sensual and good to look at.

and i don’t belive that cute is bad.make it more like a porsche and ditch those runflats…….. lets get stuck out somewhere far and wait for a pick up named earl to come and get you.

now with the turbo for 08″… for me the essence of a sports car that is similar to the mini is the 911.

mike Nov 6th, 2006 Link

the R58 should be a killing machine. designed to strike fear in all men… but cute.

pbraun Nov 6th, 2006 Link

I wanna see the new MINI camper!

OK, that’s probably not reasonable – how about the new MINI pick-up truck? or a panel VAN – that would be a natural, after the next extended wheelbase model!

if not, then the summer MINI-Moke! no top at all – no damn roll bars, either ! :) make it FUN!

Scarlett O'MINI Nov 6th, 2006 Link

2 seater, please!

petsounds Nov 6th, 2006 Link

AWD, Suby competitor. WRC-ready. No jacked up model like the Audi All-Road, though. Let’s make it lightweight and fast. But not flimsy like the Subarus. This car should be the evolutionary missing link between the Lotus Elise and the WRX, with the Quattro grip of the Audis.

Al Nov 6th, 2006 Link

I want a pick-up truck too. I remember seeing someone do a custom job a few years ago. That I’d go for!

O(=^=)OCapn Nov 6th, 2006 Link

Back to the roots. Everyone in the day had RWD and Mini came along and vanquished the giants with superior handling and FWD. Now, AWD has vanquished FWD and handling has evolved.

It needs to be AWD option, 200 bhp with a works at 250. I didn’t buy an STI because it was too scary at 300 bhp. With 250 bhp, AWD will sap enough power to make it safe and a contender. Long enough to race. We have to have a purpose to the changes, changes for change sake is foolishness. Supercharged or Turbo with no lag. I remember the first time I drove a powerful car with turbo lag. That was scary.

All of the options that have been mentioned here have been very good. For some reason people think that all of them have to be standard. A la carte is one of the beauty things of a MINI. Keep it that way. I chose Nav because I am on the road enough to unfamiliar places to justify it. In Canada, the northern states and Rocky Mountain states, AWD would be very handy and a must have. In other places it would be very nice. These people would be able to get it as an option, just like the Works.

Diesel would be a nice option to have as well, for all of the obvious reasons.

Morgan Moore Nov 6th, 2006 Link

Petsounds -nails it- with this statement: “This car should bethe evolutionary missing link between the Lotus Elise and the WRX.”

I couldn’t say it better. If this ends up being a watered down “global car”/SUV crossover, the MINI division of BMW will have truly jumped the shark.

-Morgan

BrantV Nov 6th, 2006 Link

Electric and/or Hybrid, Body panels made from aluminum sheets with aluminum foam cores for sound and energy absorption.

A city car, designed from the ground up for zero emmissions.

Besides, with European pedestrian crash laws bumping the bonnet out a minimum distance from the engine, an all electric could see a serious reduction in space needed for the engine, and possibly allow for a slimmer front end.

A commercial panel van based on the new traveler would be great for companies like Geek-Squad.

eager2own Nov 6th, 2006 Link

Gabe, I know this is an R58 post . . . but is: “a year after the R57 ConvertibleÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s debut in the spring of 2008″ a typo or new info I’ve missed?

Gabe Nov 6th, 2006 Link

That would be a typo that I just fixed. Thanks.

BTW it’s worth mentioning that the next (next next?) generation MINI will be debuting around 2012 – just a couple of years after the R58 (built of course on the R56 platform) rears its head.

MNIGRL Nov 6th, 2006 Link

How about this??? Between now and 2010 you will see around 10 variants of MINI in the global market .. this may be one of them!

http://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mini-dune-buggy/

Don’t forget to rate it!

Osmodious Nov 7th, 2006 Link

A MINI interpretation of the Lancia Delta Integrale would be perfect…actually, it would be closer to the Audi Quattro Sport in spirit, I suppose.
I don’t want a ‘cross country’ MINI, I want a ‘flying chipmunk’ pocket rocket mega-grip whip everything on the road MINI. I can’t tell you how many times I would have loved to have been able to flick the tail out a little without having to resort to installing a stiffer anti-roll bar, sawing stupidly at the wheel or, heaven forfend, tweaking the e-brake a little.

Anyway, an all-weather giant killer is what I want…with a nice, tunable turbocharged motor.

O(=^=)O Capn Nov 7th, 2006 Link

While we expect a plans to be formalized soon, MINI has yet to decide on a specific direction with the R58 model. We expect they will finalize the production plans of this new model by the end of this year and we could see something new and exciting roll out of the Oxford Plant about a year after the R57 ConvertibleÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s debut in the spring of 2009.

So, that means that we are talking about something that may come to fruition about 2010?

It is closer than it sounds, 3+ years, but that is a long time to wait for AWD.

MINI Fireman Nov 7th, 2006 Link

How about something like a Renault R5 with AWD, DSG-type paddle shifted tranny and a choice of either a gasoline or performance turbo diesel. Lightweight, bulging flared fenders hiding massive rubber and a optional rollcage. Now THAT, I could crack my wallet for again.

http://news.windingroad.com/auto-news/renault-r5-turbo-2-follies/

mataku Nov 7th, 2006 Link

wow.. those Renault R5 Turbo 2 look so awesome… except for all the crashes and flips of course. =)

RJM67 Nov 7th, 2006 Link

Somebody did say it earlier, but a hybrid would be cool. If Toyota can do it with the (being generous here) less than pretty Prius, and Lexus with their big cars then making a Hybrid MINI would be a real winner. All the coolness that is already there, and a car to help the environment a bit.

Bilbo Baggins Nov 7th, 2006 Link

I would not be interested in a speedster style MINI or a jacked up AWD MINI.

What would definitely get my dollars is an AWD version of the R56. I do not want it to increase any in size, or change in outside appearence. Just the same body with AWD.

The interior needs to be worked on before I’ll buy another MINI. The center stack really needs some help. The R56’s larger speedo is a joke with the stereo system integrated in it. The layout of the HVAC controls need help.

Returning to a style closer to the ‘02-’04 R53 for the interior would definitely be a step in the right direction.

Light weight is always a good thing as it improves fuel mileage and performance. More power might be nice but not necessary. AWD is a must to control the extra power.

Ansel Olson Nov 7th, 2006 Link

Some of the ideas already mentioned appeal to me…

–rally inspired AWD MINI that can compete with the STI/EVO of the world. –hardtop speedster RWD (w/ AWD becoming an option across the board) with at least 220-230 hp

I don’t use my back seats much, but I’m not fond of the idea of losing them.

Whether it goes speedster or rally, AWD or RWD would be awesome in a MINI–its part of the ticket to making this model really distinctive. But you’ve also got to lower the weight, and either way give it at least the same power as a JCW, if not more. Oh yeah, and don’t limit the production run, just make it special order. I think I’d be convinced to trade up.

Drill Nov 7th, 2006 Link

Gotta agree with those who want MORE POWER… and AWD :-) (Like the Audi “S” and “RS” models)

Brit Guy Nov 7th, 2006 Link

A real flat BRG colour

DesignIt Nov 7th, 2006 Link

I would agree with most of the comments made here, especially Bilbo’s post above. I would buy a street oriented AWD version with a serious performance boost and weight reduction through the use of aluminum and carbon fiber components. I would want to be able to order everything ala carte and not be burdened by option packages and unnecessary weight. In keeping with the same theme as my current no badges, no options JCW, I would not want aggressive bodywork or badges to be included with the AWD version.

As it has been said before, replace the serving platter of a speedometer and the quirky center stack with something more appropriately sized and tasteful. Also, any way of minimizing the front overhang of the R8 would be welcome.

While it wouldn’t be for me, I can see where a small pickup would be an asset to the MINI line with a function, fold-out cargo bed.

MarcsMini Nov 7th, 2006 Link

Clubman wagon with AWD would work for me. Some extra space – utility and security of AWD in the snow country I live in would fit the bill. I like the idea of the clubmaanfor the versatility – extra space – I stick my golf clubs in my Mini and there is no room for much else.

Mark Smith Nov 8th, 2006 Link

O.K. my take on what I’ve read (and I’ve read them all).

AWD is inappropriate for a MINI and really isn’t necessary. Anyone driving in weather fowl enough to want it should either invest in a good set of snows or stay home! MINI’s do pretty well in winter from personal experience.
Hybrid??? Are you all serious? Doesn’t the MINI help the environment a ton already by being one of the most fuel efficient and fun vehicles around. If you really want Vanilla there are a ton of Toyota Dealerships dying to sell you a Yaris or Scion Xa really! Why copy the others? Isn’t MINI about “Youification?” Working to make more powerful and fuel efficient engines that are great in both categories is no small feat. Keep your Hybrid wishes to SUV’s and large cars that need it. Who wants to replace batteries after 7 to 10 years of ownership approximately anyway?
Speedster. Now here’s an idea for something different to harken back to BMC’s roots an additionally add something unique to the mix. Long hood and short deck MINI would make for an awesome Miata/Solstice stomper.
Moke and those other ideas are cool but not as cool as a Speedster. Let’s see what MINI really does come up with. I know you’re out there reading this BMW AG. You’re good at listening but don’t stray away from what MINI is really about. You won’t like the outcome.

dunk Nov 8th, 2006 Link

mark,

the mini is actually pretty bad in terms of its emissions for such a small car, it emits 6.9 tons of greenhouse gas emissions per year and has an epa pollution score of 2 (out of 10).

compare that to:

honda civic: 5.5 tons and 6 of 10 honda civic hybrid: 3.7 tons and 8.5 of 10 honda accord: 6.6 tons 6 of 10 toyota camry: 6.7 tons and 6 of 10 toyota prius: 3.4 tons and 8 of 10

it’s awfully spurious to assume that wanting a fun car and wanting one that’s environmentally friendly are mutually exclusive? it’s really not cool that our tiny cars are polluting more than full sized accords and camrys.

you’re also mistaken on the life of the batteries; they are guaranteed for 8 years, toyota doesn’t know how long they’ll last beyond that, but are expecting 15 years on average.

i for one would buy a hybrid mini in a heart-beat.

Mark Smith Nov 9th, 2006 Link

MINI = FUN! ;-)

Hybrid = Boo :-( Weight, Batteries(possible replacement), Cost = Negative, Negative, Negative

dunk Nov 9th, 2006 Link

mark,

you’re spreading/repeating FUD about hybrids, not to mention your arguments are purely subjective. there is no evidence that hybrid engines can’t be just as exhilarating as standard gas engines, in fact quite the contrary when one considers that toyota’s ferrari-fighting, lexus will be released with a hybrid option.

also an after-market MINI tuner has created a hybrid MINI that does 0-60 in 4.5 seconds, a top speed of 150MPH and 80 MPG. the engine is much smaller than the MINI as its primary task is generating electricity for direct drive wheels, meaning the overall weight is about the same as a standard MINI.

http://www.leftlanenews.com/2006/07/21/hybrid-mini-offers-640-hp-0-60-in-45-seconds/

Mark Smith Nov 12th, 2006 Link

It’s not the engine but what it’s usually mounted in. You’re right my arguments are purely subjective because I believe that Hybrids are a bandaid solution to a huge problem and only benefit larger less fuel efficient vehicles. Not small, fun, stylish, and economical cars like the MINI. I am not a fan and there’s nothing that my 29 years of car enthusiasm and experience will allow to change my opinion. What is FUD anyway???

Morgan Moore Nov 13th, 2006 Link

FUD + Fear, Uncertainty, Doubt.

Morgan Moore Nov 13th, 2006 Link

More FUD = http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FUD

gaztronic Nov 14th, 2006 Link

Forget suv’s this is MINI remember that word it means alot. Somthing based on the acv30 concept as this was a cool car pushing away from the fattened up copy we all drive now. for those people who live in the uk particulaly London where the congestion charge might be going up to Ã‚Â£25.00 a day to drive round the capital, maybe a shorter two seat city car a real Mini for the 21st centuary also it would slaughter the smart for two in sales. also the next mini should come with half leather seats just like the coopers of the 1990’s

Doger Jan 6th, 2007 Link

MINI Cooper CRX :)

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