By Nathan Adlen, Vehix.comWhat you see before you is a concept vehicle based on the soon-to-be-produced MINI crossover vehicle. It’s called the Mini Beachcomber Concept and this large car (for Mini) debuted at the 2010 North American International Auto Show held in Detroit, Michigan.
This door-less concept emulates the spirit of the old, Jeepish MINI Moke and whets our appetite by still giving us only a glimpse of what we will see in 2011. This concept’s wheelbase is about the same as a MINI Clubman but with a jacked-up suspension and mud-loving tires. The actual MINI crossover will almost certainly have 4-doors, a lower stance and far less aggressive tires.
Looking at this car begs the question: How many after-market companies would build something like the MINI Beachcomber for SEMA (Specialty Equipment Market Association)?
Realistically, expect the same engine and transmission choices that are currently available in the MINI line with the addition of an optional all-wheel-drive (AWD) system. Think of something in the vein of a Suzuki SX4 mixed with the current MINI Cooper and you're on the right track.
Although missing doors at the exhibit, the MINI Beachcomber concept is said to have a functioning soft top, a lightweight hard top and removable doors. As a concession to fun-loving surfing types, this is a vehicle that substituted some of its vents for additional speakers. The remainder of the interior is built for maximum safety with 4-safety harnessed seats, what appears to be an integrated roll-bar and half of the MINI Clubman’s rear swinging doors. It’s a cool, if not overly optimistic idea for the future MINI crossover.
What does this mean for MINI consumers?
Maybe MINI is reentering the ferocious spectacle of rally racing. Or, perhaps a MINI crossover entering and battling in the grueling Dakar race. Imagine a MINI that could enter a mud-filled road, clawing for traction with all 4 wheels as it tears through corners sideways. Ah, savor that image… it could be a possibility for some. This particular model is more of a beach buggy with lots of concept-car impossibility.
In the real world where small, premium crossovers have become intriguing choices (think: Mercedes Benz GLK, BMW X3/X1, Audi Q5/Q3, Land Rover LR2 etc.) MINI may have a contender. While it may no longer hold the exclusive title of tiny road-carver, it may very well become the MINI of crossovers. Provided BMW (MINI’s parent company) can keep the weight down and fun-factor up, this may be a fun drive indeed.
Stay tuned for more about the MINI crossover as information becomes available.
