Show more Photos
 

Related Content

• » MINI Cooper S gets more power from John Cooper Works
• » Daihatsu creates a proper mini-sportscar
• » Photos : Mini Mini

Mini Concept wows Frankfurt

It's hard to keep new cars or even one-off show concepts quiet from the motoring press, so it was a surprise when I wandered onto the Mini stand on press day to discover the Mini Concept Frankfurt with a swarm of journalists and photographers around it like wasps around a jam factory. So just what is the Mini Concept Frankfurt?

You'll be used to concept cars that are nothing more than beefed up near-future production models. Well, this concept is along those lines, but it is very significant, in particular to the direction of the highly successful Mini brand. First off, ignore the clever clogs wide opening hinges and vertically split rear tailgate; neither is likely to make it into the showroom. However, note that the wheels are not over-sized, and appear to be covered with normal looking wheel trims. That gives a very strong indication that this new body shape will form part of the Mini line-up at some stage.

Indeed, the concept celebrates the 45th anniversary of the launch of the original Mini Estate (sold as either a Austin Seven Countryman or Morris Mini Traveller). As with those cars, the concept features distinctive rear doors in place of a hatch and a longer wheelbase. The B-pillar is done away with altogether, and the rear windows slide back to create a large open space, together with the extra long sunroof giving the car a spacious feeling.

We expect to see an elongated version of the Mini arrive when the range is overhauled. This is likely to happen at the 2006 Geneva Motor Show, and the Concept Frankfurt hints at that car's detailing with smoother front headlights, reshaped rears and a more daring chrome grille. Looks like the Mini is here to stay. What next? A pick-up version? Now that would be cool.

Send by Messenger

Email this article

 Print