14 Sep 05
Not the most imaginative of names for what is, essentially, a MINI Traveller, Countryman or perhaps (prettier) Clubman, reviving the memory of the load-lugging versions of the original Mini. Still, it's rather fun: a preview of the larger next-generation MINI range, due 2007, it shows that BMW is planning to stay true to the style of the current hatchback range but enhance the line-up with a number of different, new bodystyles. It's retro, nonetheless: instead of a top-hinged tailgate, it has vertically-split rear double doors, in a direct echo of the original, as well as only two side doors and split rear side windows, though these now open electrically with a sliding section. Advanced door hinges which open both sideways and forwards at once ("parallelogram kinematic joints and springs", since you asked) should make entry and exit a bit easier than in the old Mini Traveller, too, with the two rear seats relatively easy to reach.
Modern packaging technology has been applied to the interior, too, with an adjustable cargo box in the boot with a cover-cum-partition, an opening-out rear roof section to accommodate awkward loads and a slide-out tray. The rear seats fold completely flat, and the central armrest can fold down and provide extra storage.
One thing you can't fail to notice, though, is that with its extended wheelbase this MINI just isn't that Mini any more. Blame safety standards and bigger people for that, and the fact that the main criticism of the current model is a lack of rear-seat and boot space...
The Concept Frankfurt is finished in two-tone silver metallic paint with neoprene trim detailing along the side sills and wheel arches; its interior is an impractical white leather, accessorised with metallic details, aluminium-coated fibreglass panels, carbonfibre-look sections and nylon carpets. The cabin has been designed to give an impression of spaciousness, with the footwells left open and floor kept clear apart from the central console.
The Concept Frankfurt also previews the styling changes which will feature on the next-generation hatchbacks and cabriolets. Check out the slightly elongated headlights and higher-set bonnet with air scoop. The production version won't have a one-piece, forward-hinging bonnet and bumper moulding, though - nor such enormously long doors. Under the bonnet will be the new range of engines jointly developed with Peugeot and to be built at Hams Hall in the West Midlands. These will include turbocharged, rather than supercharged, units.
Gert Hildebrand, head of MINI design, says a final decision will be made at the end of the year whether to make a production Countryman. "It's a logical thing to do", he says, "from a historical and a functional point of view. The next MINI will have extra space with an 80mm-longer wheelbase anyway, but we have no plans to make a five-door version because BMW already has the 1-Series. A MINI is a two-door car, plus whatever it has in the tail."
Gallery: Mini Concept Frankfurt
