BMW AG (parent company of BMW and MINI) has officially registered the “Countryman” name for trademark. We can only assume it is intended for MINI’s upcoming crossover considering the timing. In classic Mini days the Countryman name was used for the long wheel base version of the car in specific markets (along with “traveller”). Its use makes sense here and would be a welcome tie-in with classic Mini history.

Look for the car to officially debut on the web in the weeks ahead with a public debut set for the Frankfurt Motor show in late September. In addition to this look for a special report next week the R60 and the secret story behind its development. You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, you’ll probably not like it.

Side note: As mentioned on last week’s podcast my money was on either Traveller or Countryman based on BMW’s previous use of classic Mini naming conventions. Minute 34:00 if you’re keeping score at home… Todd…