There has been some talk about a 5 Door MINI variant and perhaps there is one in MINI's future...may be 2 to 3 years?
At any rate I really dig the idea of either a MINI wagon or a 5 door MINI hatchback. In my head I envision a very tastefully done 5 door hatchback with either suicide style rear doors or an invisible "B" pillar with frameless windows that will evoke the classic "Open Hardtop" look from American (And some Mercedes Benz cars) from the 1960's, but with a very sporty and modern twist for the MINI.
The 2003 Mercedes Benz CLK coupe has no B pillar post so when all windows are rolled down, the car feels very airy and the look this effect yields is simply gorgeous.
Where I see much difficulty in terms of maintaining design consistency when conceiving the 5 door MINI, is to keep the Wrap around glass look effect in the rear C pillars which only the current 3 door hatchback can successfully emulate.
I am sure MINI, if eventually offering a 5 door variant, will come out with a stunning design that will not be a step down from the current hatchback.
For those of us who are thinking about starting a family or have children already, a 5 door MINI or a "Clubman" MINI wagon is a very palatable idea....the perfect compliment for our current day 3 door
MC and
MCS models. The minute MINI releases either a 5 door Cooper or a MINI wagon, I will put my 2001 Chevy Impala for sale and place an order. Our second car needs to be a 4 door and this is the reason why we have not signed up for 2 MINIs (But would love to)yet.
I think the MINI has the potential to be even more of a practical car (The interior in the current model is very roomy given the exterior dimensions) without sacrificing its unique looks and driving/perfomance dynamics.
Keep in mind that Ford will soon be releasing a 5 door version of its Ford Focus SVT model, so it is possible to marry practicallity and good performance in a tight package.
MINIUSA: Take note!.
