MINI Paceman Unveiled: 2012 Paris Motor Show Preview
The MINI Paceman has broken cover prior to its officially unveiling at the 2012 Paris Motor Show, adding the seventh vehicle to the British automaker’s lineup.
The standard MINI Paceman will come powered by a 1.6-liter engine with 122-hp and 118 lb-ft of torque and can be had with either a six-speed manual transmission or six-speed automatic. Those looking for more thrill though in the automaker’s new sports activity coupe can opt for the more powerful MINI Cooper S Paceman, which has a twin-scroll turbocharged engine pushing out 184-hp and 177 lb-ft of torque.
While EPA figures aren’t yet available in regards to fuel efficiency, MINI has equipped its Paceman with brake-energy regeneration and auto start-stop technology to help maximize fuel economy – though it’s not clear if both will be offered in North America. To give it a much sportier appearance and drive, the automaker gives the Paceman a lowered suspension as standard, but a regular one can be installed for no additional cost.
Available on both models is MINI’s All4 all-wheel drive system, while 16-inch wheels will be standard with larger 17-, 18-, and even 19-inch wheels available as an option. Electric power steering will be standard and an electronically locking differential is available on the S model.
As for the exterior, the Paceman’s styling is further accented by a chrome-trimmed hexagonal grille. For the first time, the rear taillights feature a horizontal design, which the automaker says helps emphasize the car’s width. On the interior, the signature central speedometer makes an appearance with a new black surround while the rear of the Paceman gets two bucket seats for extra kneeroom thanks to the cutouts in the front seatbacks.
Options for the MINI Paceman include adaptive headlights, park-distance control, comfort access, and glass roof. The Paceman is scheduled to go on sale in the first quarter of next year, and we expect a pricing announcement as it gets closer to its release date. And look for a high-performance John Cooper Works version to arrive in a year’s time.
GALLERY: MINI Paceman
Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
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Those looking for more thrill though in the automakers new sports activity coupe can opt for the more powerful MINI Cooper S Paceman, which has a twin-scroll turbocharged engine pushing out 184-hp and 177 lb-ft of torque.
OK, who else read that as the Mini PAC-MAN!?