Automotive Trends

     Mini is on a quest to fill as many automotive niches as it can and the Paceman Concept is the latest alteration that may or may not be destined for production. What we can tell you is that Mini’s designers used “masculine design language” and the higher ground clearance and larger dimensions of the 4-door Mini Countryman to make this the first Sports Activity Coupe, or SAC, (their words, not ours) in the small car segment.
     Executives must think they can get away with such a preposterous name because the concept features Mini’s all-wheel drive system. We’re fans of the decision to equip the Paceman with the most powerful Mini engine currently available: the John Cooper Works 1.6-liter turbo. This powerplant is good for 211 hp and 192 lb-ft of torque, ensuring the Paceman performs like a Mini should. Aimed at active urbanites who love the Mini brand but want a little more room without giving up the trademark handling responsiveness, the Paceman would make a handsome addition to the rapidly expanding Mini brand.

Photos by Jason Muxlow