MINI Giving Three Models the Axe
Bid adieu to three MINI models as they’re not long for this world.
With the recent debut of the (not so) MINI Clubman, the British automaker has confirmed that the coupe, roadster and Paceman crossover are all getting cut from the lineup.
As a result, MINI will now focus on five core models, which include the trademark hatchback and Countryman, as well as the recently debuted Clubman. More importantly, parent company BMW confirmed that the Clubman essentially kicks off a new era for MINI, as it expands into the premium compact class.
SEE ALSO: 5 Cars That Prove the New MINI Clubman Isn’t MINI at All
As for the Superleggera, MINI wouldn’t confirm that it’s heading to production, with Peter Schwarzenbauer, BMW executive who oversees the division, saying that it remains “an extremely interesting” option to fill the void as a two-seat, convertible offering. The company expects to hit a new sales record this year after selling about 302,000 units last year. Accounting for nearly 80 percent of those deliveries were MINI’s trademark model and the Countryman.
The company didn’t confirm when it’ll cease production of all three models, but the two-seat coupe and roadster have already been removed from the company’s website in Germany.
[Source: Bloomberg]
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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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Wasn't Mini already a premium compact brand?
pretty soon the trademark hatchback will also be axed in favor of the Clubfootman and the ManwithoutaCountry