Mini preparing to up the ante with another crossover

MANILA: SUVs and crossovers are all the rage these days, aren't they? Especially in the markets like the US and the ASEAN region, the segment has been witnessing some serious surge in demand in recent times. Hence, all the automakers have started rolling out newer and better SUVs and crossovers for the masses, even at the cost of discontinuing their previously good-selling and favourite models. Another automaker in the fleet looking forward to expanding its SUV and crossover lineup and take advantage of the increasing demand is Mini.

Well, as the name suggests, Mini, the British automaker has been known for its compact cars. However, with the change and evolution that the automobile space has is going through, it was no surprise that Mini also, just like other automakers, made amends to its principles and is now making efforts to create a stir in the SUV and crossover segment with its offerings. The first crossover model by the British automaker was the Countryman five-door crossover and the second addition to the lineup is said to a crossover based on the upcoming Mini Clubman.

To be specific, the six-door station wagon Clubman could lay the foundation for the automaker's second-ever crossover and sit beneath the Countryman, stated Oliver Heilmer, Mini’s designer while speaking to Autocar. Another reason behind Mini making big strides towards SUV and crossover development is the sales figures generated by the Clubman in recent times. Since the British automaker's smaller cars aren't producing likeable sales figures, it is rather wise for Mini to develop and produce cars for other segments.

Coming back to the upcoming Mini crossover that could be based on the six-door station wagon Clubman, it could turn out to be a luxurious crossover, whereas Mini could produce and market the Countryman as more of an off-roader. Launched for the first time in 2007, the Mini Clubman is a supermini that is managed by BMW. The German automaker then sells the car under the Mini canopy. Furthermore, the six-door station wagon was recently unveiled in an updated guise with revisited tech and creature comforts alongside a mildly revamped appearance. There are six engines on offer, three petrol and three diesel with the power figures ranging from 102 hp to 192 hp.

What's your take on Mini introducing another crossover? Will the carmaker renowned for making small cars be able to lock horns with the seasoned SUV and crossover campaigners? For now, we can only wait for Mini to bring out its newest crossover in the flesh before we make any sort of judgements.

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