A number of websites are reporting that the BMW owned company is working to extend the iconic British brand further with a MPV, scheduled to reach production in 2014.
Quoting multiple sources, including a well placed insider and regular contributor to their forums, the website claims that the new car is themed around maximising internal space — something the reinvented MINI brand has been criticised for compared to its super space efficient ancestor, the Alec Issigonis designed Austin Mini of 1959.
Based on the platform that the third generation MINI (third gen of the BMW version that is, codenamed F56) will share with the BMW ‘Compactive Sport Tourer’ — what we know as the forthcoming front wheel drive sub-1-series car — expect the new MINI to appear like a larger Clubman, potentially sharing that model’s rear hinged doors (but on both sides). The feeling of internal spaciousness will also be enhanced by a large panoramic glass roof and larger windows. Innovative storage solutions will pack the interior.
Externally, the car will sit taller but still be short with small overhangs front and rear. Common with all new F56 MINIs, it will feature raked back headlights and a larger grille, similar to what we’ve seen with the Countryman compact SUV.
The new car is being called ‘Spacebox’ internally but may use the Traveller name for production — that’s a badge last used on the wood-trimmed Mini estate in 1969. It could debut in concept form as early as the Frankfurt motor show in September. Production is unlikely before 2014, however, after we have seen the Range Rover Evoque rivalling MINI Paceman Coupe SUV and the all new F56 MINI hatch models.
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