A Wide and Powerful Design

The MINI Paceman Concept, announced this time, is a two-door model based on the "Crossover," scheduled to arrive in Japan in the spring of 2011, with a stronger personal orientation. BMW positions it as an SAC (Sports Activity Coupe), a category it has developed with models like the "X6."

The body dimensions are 4,110mm in length, 1,789mm in width, and 1,541mm in height, with a seating capacity of four. While the design clearly identifies it as part of the MINI family at first glance, closer inspection reveals various changes. According to designer Markus Schilling, the Paceman emphasizes horizontal lines for a wide and powerful design, a departure from the Crossover's more vertical styling.

The exterior features a "urban and masculine" design. The roof narrows towards the rear, the waistline rises slightly at the back, and the rear fenders bulge muscularly. Compared to the Crossover, the styling emphasizes a more stylish form, which is its appeal.

Chassis Performance Delivering a "Go-Kart"-Like Drive

The front largely follows the design of the MINI Cooper S Crossover, with brake cooling air inlets set into the lower bumper and fog lamps integrated on either side. The side scuttles, like those on the Crossover, extend from the A-pillar line and serve as both turn signals and air outlets. Moving to the rear, the taillights have been changed to a horizontal design, conveying a sense of stable power.

The engine is a 1.6-liter four-cylinder twin-scroll turbo engine from the John Cooper Works, producing a maximum output of 211 ps (155 kW) and a maximum torque of 260 Nm (26.5 kgm), which increases to 280 Nm (28.55 kgm) with overboost. Combined with the high chassis performance characteristic of the BMW Group, it promises a "go-kart"-like driving experience.

Furthermore, a full-time 4WD model can be optionally selected for this Paceman. Equipped with "MINI ALL4," similar to the Countryman, the torque distribution can vary from the normal 50:50 to a maximum of 100 percent to the rear, suggesting expectations for stable driving.