What year will the Next-Generation Mini start production? (2007 or 2008)

[johnsocal]

Will it go into production in 2007 or 2008?

Will it be larger?

Will it be more expensive (in 2008 Dollars)? (like a $19,995 base price for standard cooper and/or $24,995 base price for the Cooper S)

Will their be more variations like a 2 door with hatch and convertible, 4 door with hatch, AWD Rally-Racer, 4 door sedan, and etc?

[Paul]

We did a lot of grilling at the MINI Convertible launch these past two days. Nothing new to report really!

[LMB]

Quote: Originally Posted by Paul Mullett

We did a lot of grilling at the MINI Convertible launch these past two days. Nothing new to report really!

Did they say whether it'll be 2007 or 2008?

[Paul]

Nope. My money is on 2007 at the moment.

[Pritch]

Quote: Originally Posted by Paul Mullett

Nope. My money is on 2007 at the moment.

mine too - my current lease runs out in July '07

[Ibb]

Lets hope its 2007, I'm hoping to keep my MCS for atleast 2yrs and 6monthes.

[johnsocal]

I wonder if the 07/08 Cooper will have less chrome and become less retro as well?

[eltel]

From "The Age" Drive supplement Thu May 13th - discussing the MINI convertible, the following discussion with Otto Shindewolf, the man in charge of the Cabrio's chassi, trim and roof systems, hints at future developments.

Journo: A five-door model?
"Something like this," he says, nodding. "To make a bit more space. That gives you all kinds of alternatives. Also playing around a little bit with the gearbox, engine, transmission."
Journo: A wagon?
"That would be something (which goes) together with a five-door," he says. "I couldn't confirm the (all-wheel drive) transmission. It might be that they're working on it. I've seen many sketches, people are very creative."
Journo: Butno decision yet, and it would be another two-and-a-half years from drawing board to showroom, he says.

(End Quote) So all-wheel drive pops up again.

[Ibb]

Rear wheel drive would be awesome though, I heard it may be a possibility somewhere on here.