SPY PICS: Cross hatch: 4WD MINI caught on test
Not many visual clues, but this is the MINI SUV to be launched in 2010The lack of visual clues might be slightly deceiving, but these snaps by master spy photographers, Carparazzi, are of the upcoming all-wheel drive version of the recently launched four-door MINI Clubman, to be dubbed Crossman.
About the only signs separating the proto car from a regular Clubman are the extra links to the rear suspension, which now needs to accommodate a differential, along with the attendant needs to locate and control movement affected by drive forces.
Although the body of the photo car appears to ride at the same height as other Clubman models, the word is Crossman will get a raised suspension to stamp its mark as the MINI that goes places regular versions might not.
It's been said the new AWD MINI will share certain driveline components with the also upcoming BMW X1 SUV, but these pics suggest there's little connection with the X1 shots taken by Carparazzi in January this year (more here). The linkages of both cars are quite different, with the BMW appearing to use a version of the five-arm multilink suspension seen in regular 1 Series models. The MINI snapped here shows evidence of a system using fine tubular links including a long trailing link clearly visible from the side view.
The Crossman should be available with both the normally aspirated 1.6-litre and turbocharged Mini engines, along with six-speed manual and auto transmission options.
The MINI Crossman is to be assembled outside the UK at Magna Steyr and is scheduled for release in 2010.
-- with Carparazzi
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