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MINI will unveil a new concept car at the Geneva Auto Show next March that will foreshadow a future model to slot in underneath the current Cooper range and compete with the likes of the Smart fortwo and Toyota iQ. Possibly called the MINI Minor, the concept car will be based on a shortened version of the current hatchback platform, although it's not known if a production model would continue to use such a layout. The car wouldn't be a four-seater, either (not that the current MINI really is anyway), but instead either offer just two seats, or a 3-seat layout like the iQ.

Along with showcasing a potential new vehicle, MINI will use the Minor concept to introduce a new gasoline engine (possibly the 3-cylinder powerplant expected to be offered in the next MINI Cooper). It will also give a hint at MINI's future design direction. But don't expect any major chances, as MINI is expected to keep an evolutionary approach to its classic retro style.

More: MINI Minor Concept to Debut at Geneva Auto Show (http://www.autoguide.com/auto-news/2010/07/mini-minor-concept-to-debut-at-geneva-auto-show.html) on AutoGuide.com

Is this some kind of joke? That has got to be the ugliest car I have seen for a long time! Doesn't even look like it belongs in the Mini brand.

I have to agree this does not even look like a MINI apart from the logo. I think this is a serious mistake by the brand to produce such a hideous car. I love the brand and think this concept cheapens the range. I hope they don't produce this!

Fear not, the pictures you see are a 1997 concept on the new MINI by ROVER, known as the Mini Spirtual (hence the classic style mini badge)

I remember reading in aback issue of MC2 magazine that the models pictured were actually designed way back in the 90's before MINI was purchased by BMW. The photo shown in this thread is the exact same that was produced in the magazine.

I would hope that MINI would offer a spurced-up look Re these vehicles. I'm not too crazy about the egg-shaped concept.

I think the pics are incorrect for the article for sure.

Fear not, the pictures you see are a 1997 concept on the new MINI by ROVER, known as the Mini Spirtual (hence the classic style mini badge)

Phew!