According to AutoExpress UK and based on some information within the MINI brand, the legendary MINI Moke is back! MINI bosses have given Auto Express strong hints that the buggy-inspired Beachcomber concept will be sent down the production line.
Designed to introduce the fans to the upcoming Countryman crossover, the open-top Beachcomber was very well received and acclaimed by MINI fans and journalists after its unveiling at the Detroit Motor Show in January.
While the final decision is yet to be made, head of brand management for MINI, Dr Wolfgang Armbrecht, told AutoExpress: “We will come back to this to see if there is a business basis, as we were overwhelmed by the reaction. MINI will never show a concept that won’t make production.”
The MINI Beachcomber was built as a preview of the new Countryman, but in a stripped down version. Beachcomber lost the doors and roof panels in homage to the Moke – the legendary Mini-based take on the classic beach buggy.
The four-seater conept is built on an all new platform, MINI Beachcomber Concept has its roots back in the 1960’s Mini Moke, but with the new concept, MINI is finally moving away from the current round headlamp design. The new concept measures 4007mm and the 2.6m wheelbase also offers great rear legroom compared with similar-sized cars.
The less conventional upright, tall and flat nose has a Moke influence and it has been designed to meet the new strict pedestrian safety regulations.
Off-road ability is enhanced by higher ground clearance than the Countryman. Beachcomber sports the new ALL4 four-wheel-drive system.
The name is yet to be decided, but Moke remains a strong candidate.
[Source: AutoExpress via BimmerToday ]
Author: Horatiu B.
Source: http://www.bmwblog.com/2010/05/29/rumor ... roduction/