[jcuthell]

From 4 car

MINI: New Models

11/3/2002

There is to be a MINI derivative "with extended utility space", according to BMW boss Professor Joachim Milberg. Announcing the intention at the Geneva show, Milberg also confirmed plans to introduce a MINI cabriolet, which it's thought will be a two-seater with an optional power roof sitting snugly where the rear seats would have been. And design chief Chris Bangle revealed that the MINI marque now has its own dedicated styling studio, under the leadership of Gert Hildebrand, which will be in a Munich building that it shares with the M-Power design team. Bangle reckons that the juxtaposition of two design teams with such different design remits should produce creative sparks.

Best wishes, James