At the Detroit Auto Show, MINI unveiled their latest and newest concept. Following the same steps as the X5 and X6 models, MINI launches a coupe version of the Countryman under the Paceman name tag.
The Sports Activity Coupe from MINI retains the familiar MINI family front end, but adds its own distinctive design cues. At a first glance, MINI Paceman resembles the last year’s release Countryman. The large headlights with chrome surrounds extend far into the front wings and, together with the strikingly contoured bonnet, emphasize the imposing front end.
Just like the MINI Countryman being built in Graz, Austria, the Paceman will be joining the production lines at Magna Steyr as well. Dr. Klaus Draeger confirmed today for a small newspaper that production of Paceman will begin in late 2012 with first units arriving at dealerships in 2013.
While the Mini Countryman production is expected to deliver 100,000 units a year, Paceman production will bring to the market around 20,000 units. BMW X6 sales counted 46,404 units in 201, almost half as many customers as the X5, which came to 102,178 units.
Just like the Countryman, Paceman is a front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive vehicle.
The Magna Graz plant is becoming increasingly important for MINI, but the main production lines still run at the Oxford factory.
[Source: BimmerToday ]
