Production Paceman NOT Revealed in Patent Rendering
As you’ve likely read on MF, the MINI Paceman concept revealed last winter in Detroit is well on it’s way to production. And the image above is not it. Despite a most the rest of the automotive web claiming the above patent renderings are for the production Paceman, we can reveal that they simply were meant for the concept shown in Detroit earlier this year.
How do we know? As reported on MF a handful of times MINI plans on adding two club door (aka suicide doors similar to the Clubman’s) to the rear of the car for added usability. In addition to that the rear bumper will also be redesigned from the concept due to US rear impact regulations. Clearly the patent renderings show the same rear bumper as the detroit concept.
Another thing likely to change about the Paceman is the name. While good enough for the autoshow circuit, MINI has reportedly gone back to the drawing board to come up with something a bit more fitting for the car. However one thing that is certain is the internal code name: R61.
Look for the R61 to debut sometime in 2013.
<p>Quite right. The production Countryman Coupe is destined to be significantly different from the concept ‘Paceman’. Autocar’s exclusive rendering showing the two rear monted doors and crease along the side, according to Autocar, is described by BMW insiders as “remarkably accurate”.</p>
<p>I like it! Looks like a cross between a c30 and the upcoming Range Rover Evoque.</p>
<p>The “wedge” profile afforded by the window treatment is acceptable, but not necessarily the most compelling concept design. I’m beginning to think MINI may be well served by enlisting the talents from Seoul. They must be very good to have won the annual Ferrari design competition leaving both American and European design school students in the dust</p>
<p>Could the beltline be any higher? This could be the MINI that I will drive over the winter…of 2014, that is.</p>
<p>I don’t like the high beltline trend. In the new Camero, one feels like one is in a cocoon. (Soft tope cures that). The whole car becomes a cartoonish spoof of a real auto. I know that it’s driven somewhat by side impact safety, but really, eventually one will only have stubby little windows! And the wedge in the concept car means that the rear glass is very short. Not too good for visibility.</p>
<p>I hope Nick is right. Â I much prefer the Autocar rendering/design to the Paceman Concept. Â In addition to the suicide doors and the crease on the side, the Autocar version has a more dynamic hood and nose. Â It’s more “attractive” and handsome than it is “cute.” Â I’m weary of people referring to my Clubman and Countryman as “cute little cars.”</p>
<p>Harry – The Hyundai Group, which currently owns 49.2% of Kia, has already declared its intention to overtake Toyota as the World’s largest auto maker within the next five years! It is currently fourth after Toyota, GM & VW. The i10, i20 and i30 are well regarded here in the UK and in the EU where Hyundai sees its greatest market expansion.</p>
<p>Thank you Nick. I did not know Hyundai had interest in KIA. Looks like we
will see a major showdown in the near future for “King of the Hill” as VAG
has stated it intends to be the world’s largest automobile company.
Porsche alone expects to double its 200,000 per year sales. My point was
that Korea is apparently turning out some very talented, cutting-edge
automobile designers.</p>
<p>Harry – You might be interested to know, therefore, that Hyundai’s North American Design Chief is Phillip Zak, who was formerly Head of Exterior Design for GM, and Thomas Buerkle is Hyundai’s European Design Chief based in Germany.</p>
<p>I am aware that it is commonplace for designers to ply their talents
internationally. Frank Stephenson and Chris Bangle are two examples. Bangle,
of BMW group (MINI) fame now has his own firm based in Turin, and
Stephenson, also of MINI renown, will soon be design chief at McLaren. To
date, I am unaware of any Korean designers working for major manufacturers.
I trust this will change shortly <em>vis-a-vis</em> the Hongik University students’
Ferrari World Design Competition victory. Incidentally, 2nd place went to
students from a Chinese university. In similar fashion, the international
design community — from architecture and industrial to interior has become
more “hybrid” than ever. This cross-pollination will undoubtedly produce
some beautiful “blossoms.” Thank you for sharing your information.</p>
<p>I remember when MINI first launched that one of the reasons BMW invested in the brand is that they wanted to use it as a stepping stone for clients later going up to BMW’s.
Has this worked? Has this pursuit on BMW’s end stopped?
Is this the reason that also no MINI will seemingly ever have the HP output of a BMW? So they are not cross shopped?</p>
<p>I don’t know why I am asking this here … but would be interesting to find out.</p>
<p>Â
(From my Blog – 20/7)
Also seen for the first time was the finished MINI Paceman Concept which is now very much different from the concept. Looked on side profile it is the same with the roof sloping dynamically downwards with the glasshouse rising from the body.
Thanks to the new solutions of the so called “Activity Doors” MINI Paceman gets it’s rear hinged doors and retains the sloping coupe like roof of the Detroit concept, The aim is more style and practicality.
The front end is different with design ideas from the Countryman and Rocketman Concept such as more integrated headlights using the same shape as the Countryman but raked further into the body and the larger grille outer-inner outline opening from the Rocketman , incorporating spotlights.
This was the final model that BMW viewed and has now signed off for production. Although they are still mulling over a strict 3dr model a la Evoque and indeed ideal for the WRC programme after the Countryman. The MINI Paceman will be a popular choice for those that want something small with a sporting profile. Especially if they take the 230PS JCW version.</p>
<p>(although you might want to hear my thoughts on the MINI III?)</p>
<p>Finally seen the new MINI today and it is stunning. The designers have now brought in more distinguished features to seperate Cooper and Cooper S , apart from the usual different raised bonnet and hoodscoop. The front of the Cooper S car is entirely different , The MINI grille outline is larger with the central intake using the MINI Grille outline in typical S honeycomb in the centre. The hoodscoop is now more design orientated , effectively a U-Shape starting at the base of the windscreen that sinks into the bonnet with a raised section incorporating the actual scoop. What is even more interesting was this prototype was rocking a color not so unlike Phoenix Yellow. The interior even showcased the color in the cars color line and stitching on the seats and trim.   </p>
<p>Also they are had at work on the “Swiss-Army-Knife” of MINI. The Traveller or it’s internal name “Spacebox” – Which will be seen as a concept first in the not-so-distant future. The theme is very much “Access all areas” but takes the innovation inside aswell as out. Typical MINI features such as Barn Doors and reversed hinged passenger doors are in abundance as BMW see this as part of MINI’s identity and allows BMW’s Compactive Sport Tourer which it shares platform with to co-exist.
The style is very much like a taller Clubman , very strong MINI identity, typical short front overhang and allround glasshouse. Â </p>
<p>The BMW does not look like much in the scoop photographs but the camouflage keeps it boring.
Underneath there is strong lines on the upper and lower surfaces , a prominent nose which retains a sportier BMW appearance and a kicked-up hoffmeister theme that starts from the base of the front window right and carries along to the rear glasshouse.  </p>
<p>Autobild magazine were told to remove a render because it was near enough exact to the production car. The BMW looks more sportier than the MINI Traveller but that is the intention.
The MINI interior though expands on practicality with additional storage points increasing flexibility but in a unique MINI way. So you will have reverse-hinged storage compartments in some parts of the car. Â
MINI has a very bright future ahead of itself in terms of Products but the main priority is that both the MINI and BMW allbeit share platforms, technology and engines . They are designed and engineered to be two very different concepts. The BMW FWD is simply stunning to look at. There is nothing in the Premium segment that can compare , Both the UKL family for MINI and BMW are going to be very popular – They are indeed what is needed for the UKL segment.</p>
<p>Great stuff! Thanks for all this insider info as usual.
Really looking forward to all new generation models. I really believe we are in for something special!</p>
<p>Very interesting as always Herr26! Thank-you and much appreciated!!</p>
<p>The 2005 Renault Clio V6 Sport had a lot going for it — progressive style (perhaps just a tad too big on glazing), pleasing scale, mid-engine and distinctive European “panache.” As an enthusiast, these are the attributes that I find both appropriate and pleasing. This car arguably eclipses even the GP in terms of presenting a more intense motorsport aesthetic. The VW R32 did a convincing job as well, all things considered — VR6 and AWD, minus the DSG gearbox. The only thing missing; a manual transmission. The downside of the Renault is the “cheesy” quality of interior materials — nothing a few after market upgrades couldn’t correct.</p>
<p>There is something sublime and nearly ineffable that describes extraordinary design — architectural, industrial, naval, and automotive. Exceptional design is enduring and can be recognized and appreciated forever. The common thread is purity i.e., minus contrivance. The Bauhaus form follows function precept is certainly “pure,” but its paucity of soul to some may win widespread approval. Extremism as an expression to sensationalize is no less discomforting. I am not suggesting that the 2011 America’s Cup vessels were unnecessarily “extreme” designs since their revolutionary hulls and sails were purposeful. On the flip side, it would be difficult to convince most that these “star wars of the seas” competitors possess the same allure and beauty of the 12 meter boats like US42 America II and Stars & Stripes. Most inferior designs grow obsolete quickly. MINI should strive to incorporate indelible distinction that will be celebrated for generations at Concours d’Elegance.</p>
<p>The best designs will enjoy immortality and be appreciated by many. The worst designs are ephemeral and are appreciated by few. If it’s pure and not contrived, it will stir our passion. If it’s adulterated and uninspired, it will generate ambivalence or disdain. To have a design expression inspire universal admiration it must be singular and communicate authenticity to our senses. </p>
<p>The MINI hatchback can either retain its indelible identity by not changing dramatically, but rather subtly sans trendy affectation. All aspects must regale in preserving its essential integrity In my biased opinion, the 2006 versions were much more on target than later iterations. </p>
<p>The “Rocketman,” at the very least, demonstrates cognizance of scale and ostensibly preserves this now largely missing attribute. I am not suggesting that MINI remain frozen in time and space. On the contrary, MINI should continue to evolve and to refine its design thoughtfully and incrementally. It should not replace elements that give it distinction such as beautiful hood contours, curvilinear glass C-pillars, simple and properly scaled tail lights, and functional hood scoops. It should always seek to amplify itself by using better quality materials like Alcantara seating and dash, real chromed metal or genuine aluminum, carbon, glass, and minimal plastic. Even if it costs a few more dollars, people will recognize that MINI marches to a different drummer, value extraordinary quality over ordinary “cheese,” and pay the price.</p>
<p>Thanks Herr26, your posts are always eagerly poured over. I guess the barn door idea must be quite popular with many and really catching on. I just don’t see it as that as more desirable over the hatch design. I’d even favor the old station wagon hatch/tailgate setup over swing doors. The reverse hinged doors idea I do like and expect the other marks are letting BMW/MINI test the water before jumping in . Just my $.02</p>
<p>If it were me, I’d call it:Â The Adventureman……</p>
<p>“Crossman” would be a cool name too to add to my previous post…..</p>
<p>The high belt line and poor visibility was one reason why the newer version of the Toyota FJ Cruiser is no longer being made.   That’s for sure. </p>
<p>But, I see this same high belt line trend in the new; Rouge, Infinity’s FX35 / Nissan Murano, the new Nissan Juke, Honda’s new Crosstour and the Cadillac SRX to name just a few. While for the Juke it’s too early to tell, the rest have a fairly decent sucess rate.</p>
<p>And with the advent of back up cameras and mirrors which angle downward when backing, could be technology may help save the day in that respect. </p>
<p>Either way, I get a sense it will be a good seller along side the Countryman.</p>
<p>I don’t understand MINIs fascination with barn doors – they are so impractical compared to a hatch. I own a Clubman and the barn doors are the only feature that I despise. When raining, water pours on you and into the boot while loading (guess this is a prominent MINI design feature as water pours down into the seats whenever you open the driver or passenger door when it is raining). Let’s not forget the joy of a six inch wide pillar marring the rearward view compared to the completely unobstructed view with a hatch.</p>
<p>Thanks to Herr26 for his informative posts – always look forward to reading them.</p>
<p>I don’t understand MINIs fascination with barn doors – they are so impractical compared to a hatch. I own a Clubman and the barn doors are the only feature that I despise. When raining, water pours on you and into the boot while loading (guess this is a prominent MINI design feature as water pours down into the seats whenever you open the driver or passenger door when it is raining). Let’s not forget the joy of a six inch wide pillar marring the rearward view compared to the completely unobstructed view with a hatch.</p>
<p>Thanks to Herr26 for his informative posts – always look forward to reading them.</p>