MINI Concept blows its top

MINI has used its Frankfurt spotlight to revealed a Roadster version of the Coupe Concept it previewed before the show. And as anticipated, the company has also confirmed both will go into production to expand the MINI range to six models.

The top-chopped Roadster Concept shares the same mechanical platform as the Coupe, the only significant difference being the fabric folding roof.

BMW board member Ian Robertson (pictured) has confirmed that both models will join the Cooper hatch, Cabriolet, Clubman and  soon-to-be-released Countryman/Crossman SUV as production models.

"As a true MINI fan, I can honestly say, I think these cars are really something. They are an expression of MINI design and the ability of the brand to evolve new concepts and create new segments. The source of inspiration is clearly the trait so characteristic of MINI: driving fun!

"The two revolutionary concepts are based on a platform specially created for integrated production at MINI Plant Oxford. They are based on the MINI Hatch platform and exhibit commonalities, but of course each model is highly unique," he opined.

"It was ultimately our goal to work with synergies as much as possible. Up to the waistline the Roadster and Coupé are virtually the same. Above the waistline, the first striking feature on the Coupé is the strongly inclined windscreen merging gently into the aluminium roof. The roofline is quite distinct and featured for the first time on a MINI," Robertson explained.

"The best news for MINI fans is that we will produce both of these cars," Robertson told the media at the Frankfurt show unveil.

Check out the Carsales Network’s Frankfurt show preview and brand-by-brand summaries. And stay tuned for more Frankfurt show news and first drives in the days to come.

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