21 Sep 07 16:37
Original Mini Cooper
BMW is working on a smaller Mini, reports Mini enthusiast website Motoring File.
This mini-Mini is thought to be nearer the dimensions of the original city car and a model intended to rival the Smart Fortwo, Fiat 500 and upcoming tiny runarounds such as the Volkswagen Up! and Toyota Endo, revealed earlier this month at the Frankfurt Motor Show. It will also help BMW lower its average fuel consumption in its range, as demanded by upcoming EU legislation.
Speculation suggests a starting price as low as £8,500, with production from 2011 or 2012. The model, based on the next-generation MkIII Mini, would join the expanding Mini range, which could, next time around, include a mini-SUV plus hatchbacks, cabriolets and the Clubman estate, though such a model has been ruled out in the short- to medium-term.
BMW is also thought to be working on a Mini-based entry-level hatchback to slot in its line-up below the 1-Series.
