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Mini Crossover Concept

Known for diminutive, spunky vehicles, the automaker is now hinting at a (small) SUV

Mini Crossover Concept

Stuart Schwartzapfel

In a move to expand its brand, Mini will unveil this Crossover Concept at next month's Paris Motor Show. The first Mini to measure more than four meters (about 160 inches) in length, the design is about six inches wider and taller than the current Clubman, itself a stretched version of the Cooper. And unlike the front-wheel-drive Cooper and Clubman, the Crossover sends power to all four wheels. The concept has three conventional doors and one minivan-like sliding door. A folding roof can be opened from both the front and the rear.

The sum of these parts is a more rugged, versatile vehicle. And yet despite all these additions, the Crossover Concept maintains the Mini Cooper’s classic proportions. Mini has said an SUV-like vehicle is in the pipeline, and this concept is likely a preview of what's to come. A production vehicle is expected to go on sale in North America in 2010.

The Verdict: A Mini that isn't so mini.

Stuart Schwartzapfel is a regular contributor to BusinessWeek.com. He has studied the automotive marketplace and works as an advertising and marketing strategist for major manufacturers. He does not write about any car brands for which he currently works.