DETROIT AWAITS MINI PACEMAN CONCEPT

MINI is readying yet another concept car for the 2011 North American International Auto Show at Detroits’s COBO centre. The car, called the Paceman, is probably going to be built sometime in the next two years.

Based on the new Countryman, the Paceman is essentially a raised body MINI with two less doors. I suppose one could say it’s a MINI hatch with a higher body, or a Countryman with three doors instead of five. But of course MINI will point out a number of “differences” that make the car unique. And true to form BMW has handed down the Sport Activity Vehicle moniker to the Paceman as well.

Concept engine is the usual 1.6-litre petrol turbo worth a tantalising 155kW and 260Nm of torque. All4 AWD is standard but sends up to 100% torque to the rear wheels. A nice sporting touch I must say.