MINI Paceman Concept Heading for Production

BMW's brand lineup has had a strong basis in which to grow from: the 3, 5 and 7-Series models. From there new models in emerging niches have been added like the X1 and 5-Series GT.

A lot of the corporation's global growth has come from MINI, and BMW has relentlessly expanded MINI in a bid for volume. The MINI brand sold 234,000 units worldwide with four models, the coupe, convertible, Clubman and most recently, the Countryman crossover.

The most recent MINI has been previewed with the MINI Paceman concept. It wasn't sure if the car would be produced though. Today confirmation has came from Ian Robertson, BMW AG's Member of the Board of Management.

He said “I’m thrilled to tell you now, for the very first time, that there will be a seventh member of the MINI family – and we will base it on this concept.....this car captures the typical MINI characteristics – unique design, clever functionality and signature driving fun - with a new level of agility.

It combines an athletic, masculine coupé appearance with the dimensions of the MINI Countryman.”

This year marks the 10th anniversary of MINI's relaunch in the United States. The MINI Paceman Concept is based on the Countryman and it is powered by a 211 horsepower 1.6-liter four-cylinder from the John Cooper Works edition.

Announcement of production for the Paceman comes off the heels of Hyundai's Veloster, introduced at the show today. The two will compete head on. As far as styling goes though, the MINI wins no contest....