MINI confirms all-new electric crossover

MINI has confirmed reports that it will shake up its model range with two new small SUVs – a full-electric compact crossover and a larger version of the current MINI Countryman – set to join a completely redesigned MINI three-door hatch.

These three models will become the core line-up of the BMW-owned small-car brand from 2023 onwards, heralding the demise of slower-selling models such as the MINI Clubman wagon and MINI Convertible.

British media outlets point to the next-generation MINI three-door hatch becoming smaller – and closer to the brand’s roots – to make room for the closely related new electric crossover, which could mark the return of the Paceman moniker.

Previewed by the Vision Next 100 concept (pictured) shown a few years ago, a full-electric version of the hatch and the all-new EV-only crossover will both be built in China for global consumption on a new platform being developed with Great Wall Motors.

Combustion-engined versions of the hatch – which remain part of the company’s plans for the time being – are expected to be built at MINI’s factory in Oxford, carrying the same design but resting on a different BMW Group platform.

The plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) version of the Countryman is expected to be dropped, with MINI relying only on full-electric power as the technology continues to improve.

In a statement outlining its plans, MINI said the realignment of the model range reflected its “clear focus” on the drivetrain tech and vehicle segments it has identified as its future.

Central tenets of the strategy are “the expansion of electromobility, enhanced commitment in the crossover and premium compact segments and strengthening of the market position in China”.

“Alongside electromobility, harnessing new target groups and sales markets will be crucially important for the future of MINI,” said global head of MINI, Bernd Koerber.

The brand is clearly pushing towards becoming full-electric, stating today that “in future, MINI will enable customers all over the world to have emission-free driving with a completely electrified model family”.

“At the same time, MINI will still offer highly efficient petrol and diesel engines, which continue be an ideal solution for target groups and regions whose mobility needs are not yet met by all-electric vehicles,” the company said.

Earlier reports suggested MINI was planning two all-new SUVs in addition to the Countryman – the reborn Paceman fitting the description of the all-new crossover now confirmed, and a larger SUV dubbed ‘Traveller’ that would sit above the Countryman.

The MINI Paceman was a cut-down, three-door version of the Countryman produced between 2012 and 2016.

It was built by Magna Steyr alongside the Countryman at its facility in Graz, Austria, but was one of three models killed off – the others were the MINI roadster and coupe – as BMW refocused on core model lines for its British brand.

The current Countryman, and the convertible, are built at VDR Nedcar in Born, Netherlands.