Spy shots: MINI non-Crossman hits the Nurburgring
The promised fourth variant of the MINI is coming soon, likely at the 50th anniversary celebration this August. This new, larger crossover is getting closer to production and that means it needs to go through the now de rigueur prove out on that toughest of all race tracks: the Nurburgring Nordschliefe. Since they are testing at that legendary track it means that MINI engineers are keen to maintain the go-kart handling its siblings are renowned for. The MINI CUV will likely retain the same 1.6-liter gas and diesel options as the current MINIs. With the diesel, this MINI might even outdo the Toyota Urban Cruiser as the most efficient "SUV." If the car doesn't appear at the birthday party, it will probably debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show. The one thing we do know about the CUV is that it won't be called the Crossman. MINI USA VP Jim McDowell made that clear at the media launch drive of the MINI Convertible in February.
[Source: World Car Fans]
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
mike 10:45AM (4/08/2009)
How about 'mini max'?
I think that is a good name.
I don't know that I like the vehicle really, but then, who does?
It isn't here yet.
Anyway, I do enjoy naming things.
- mike
Reply
oollyoumn 11:27AM (4/08/2009)
Mini-Max was used by Ford, I think in the 70s, for a mini van concept. Ford ditched the concept because they couldn't see past wagons. The designer was hired away by Chrysler and it became the minivan.
Maybe the history taints the name.