Georg Kacher on the future of Mini
Mini will kick o a massive product revitalisation plan from 2023, using some tried-and-tested platforms but electrifying its core models either partially or fully. The first model lined up for rebirth is the perennial three-door hatch, with its five-door running mate to follow shortly after – both using the UKL1 platform already in service in its predecessors. That part is simple, but what comes next requires some asterisks.
All eyes are on Mini’s wild Urbanaut concept right now (below). While it’s arguably just a space-e cient design exercise described by insiders as Mini’s answer to the VW ID Buzz, something resembling a production version of the Urbanaut is a front-runner among the ideas being considered for a new larger family car within the range expected in 2024. Battling for the same slot is the next-generation Clubman.
A new Clubman certainly isn’t a shoo-in, as the gap in the market between the next five-door Mini and the third-generation Countryman coming in 2024 is shrinking. If the quirky derivative with the oddball rear doors does get a third chance, we should visualise it as kind of grownup five-door Paceman. Mini boss Bernd Körber has already confirmed another fully-electric crossover that will sit alongside 2024’s plug-in Countryman.
Could the Convertible follow the Paceman, Roadster and Coupe and be killed o after 2023? Perhaps, but according to the Munich grapevine there are moves afoot to create a two-seat soft-top based on Mini’s electric platform developed in partnership with Great Wall, with a compact rear-mounted drive module propelling the rear wheels. Allegedly mixing speedster, spyder, roadster and cabriolet elements, this more emotive variation promises fun in the sun with zero tailpipe pollution.