MINI is reportedly working on an all-new crossover
which would slot beneath the Countryman. Auto Express is reporting the model
could be launched as early as 2021 and it will ride on an all-new platform
which could eventually be shared with BMW 1-Series, 2-Series, X1, and i3.
Little else is known about the model but the report claims the crossover will likely
measure over four meters long which would make it about the same size as the
upcoming Volkswagen T-Cross.
The crossover is also slated to be offered with an
electric powertrain which isn't too surprising as reports have suggested MINI
could transition into an electric-only brand. BMW board member Peter
Schwarzenbauer declined to confirm rumors of an entry-level crossover but he
told the publication "A small urban SUV is definitely a segment that is
extremely interesting, but so far we haven’t made any decision on its
direction.” Schwarzenbauer went on to say the company wouldn't offer anything
larger than the Countryman as a seven-seat crossover "would not fit with
MINI's DNA."
If the report pans out, the crossover would join
MINI's electric hatchback which was recently previewed by a concept at the
Frankfurt Motor Show.
