Jan 23rd, 2015
For over five years we’ve reported (and reported and reported) on MINI’s internal desires to produce a smaller car than the R53, R56 and especially F56. In 2011 MINI gave us a view of what this car could be with the Rocketman concept. While the BMW Group could not make a business case of the concept initially, we learned back in October of last year that the city car had been in fact green-lighted by the Board. Yesterday, Automobile double-downed on our previous reports and revealed that MINI designers and engineers are actively working on the Rocketman, or should we say the MINI Minor. Automobile’s Georg Kacher also indicates that the Superleggera will join the ranks of the FXX generation. Although we can’t confirm the veracity of these claims, I don’t think we could have ended the week on a better note. continued →
Jan 22nd, 2015
Last week we asked MotoringFile readers which of the Rocketman or the Superleggera they would rather have MINI produce. Since both concepts present so much appeal, answering this question was no easy task, but more than 700 of you participated in the poll and we are very thankful for that. We’ve already spoiled the final result of our investigation with the title of this post, so let’s look at the numbers in detail. continued →
Jan 16th, 2015
With the FXX generation, one of MINI’s goals is to build a more focused lineup. While we could debate for endless hours the meaning of the word “focus” in the five super-hero cars strategy, we’d prefer to use everyone’s time to answer a simple question. Should MINI be in a position to bring to market the Rocketman or the Superleggera, which of the two would you rather become a reality? To vote, just complete the form below and don’t hesitate to let us know the reason(s) for your choice in the comment section. The poll will remain open until week. continued →
Dec 14th, 2014
No MINI concept has ever motivated so many thumbs to upward than the Superleggera. However MINI is struggling with approving the car according to Autocar. Given its new strategy of less niche models and more emphasis on core models like the F56 and upcoming Clubman it would seem the Superleggera doesn’t make a lot of sense. However it could serve the company well s a halo car helping to get people excited about the brand and into showrooms. Interestingly BMW has admitted for the first time that the Superleggera rides on a rear wheel drive platform. While we knew the concept was powered by an electric engine, that fact that this has once again been reiterated could be a sign that MINI is serious making the Roadster electric if produced. continued →
Dec 11th, 2014
MINI has patented the stunning Superleggera concept released earlier this year. These photos (via Jokeforblog) show off the concept in all of it’s black and white glory and two dimensional glory. Why has MINI done this and does it it mean we can expect a production version? continued →
Dec 3rd, 2014
MotoringFile recently provided you the official press release for an exciting MINI exhibit at the BMW Museum: The MINI Story. The exhibit just opened on November 27, 2014 and Autocar has provided highlights and a gallery of photographs. The exhibit includes classic Minis, design studies for the modern MINI in addition to concepts that latter became production vehicles such as the Clubman and Countryman. continued →
Nov 27th, 2014
Unfortunately, we don’t have the details of MINI’s strategy in that regard, but words from Peter Schwarzenbauer – left on this picture and BMW AG Board Member – reported yesterday by Automotive News revealed interesting facts about the future of our favorite brand. While the Five Superhero Cars plan isn’t news to avid MotoringFile readers, we have yet to find out what exactly those five cars will be. However, these new tidbits can help us make an educated guess and they seem to indicate that an all-electric MINI might be part of the pack. continued →
