BMW to Build 11 Front-Wheel Drive Models
Between its namesake and MINI sub-brand, BMW will release a total of 11 front-wheel drive based models on its UKL1 platform.
Most of those will fall under the MINI brand, BMW board member Ian Robertson told AutoExpress. The first model to ride on that platform debuted last month during the L.A. Auto Show under the new MINI Cooper and MINI Cooper S models. A year ago, Robertson said the platform would underpin as many as 20 models.
The UKL1 product to wear a propellor badge will be the Active Tourer small crossover first previewed in concept form more than a year ago during the Paris Motor Show. The production model is expected sometime next year with a three-cylinder engine; another first for the company. BMW is also said to be planning a supermini meant to compete with the Audi A1 as well as a small SUV to sit below the Audi A1.
MINI is expected to release eight models based on the architecture including something to compete with the Mazda MX-5, as well as replacements for the current MINI product line.
GALLERY: BMW Concept Active Tourer Outdoor
[Source: AutoExpress]
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Luke is an energetic automotive journalist who spends his time covering industry news and crawling the internet for the latest breaking story. When he isn't in the office, Luke can be found obsessively browsing used car listings, drinking scotch at his favorite bar and dreaming of what to drive next, though the list grows a lot faster than his bank account. He's always on <A title="@lukevandezande on Twitter" href="http://twitter.com/lukevandezande">Twitter</A> looking for a good car conversation. Find Luke on <A title="@lukevandezande on Twitter" href="http://twitter.com/lukevandezande">Twitter</A> and <A title="Luke on Google+" href="http://plus.google.com/112531385961538774338?rel=author">Google+</A>.
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compete with the MX-5? One is FWD and one is RWD. When you are looking at an MX-5 you wont consider a Mini "roadster". You are looking at the MX-5 for its RWD and driving dynamics, nothing the Mini will have, they cant compete? No one looking at the MX-5 will consider it.