MINI BEACHCOMBER

Mini Beachcomber

Recently displayed at the 2010 Detroit Auto Show, the Mini Beachcomber concept, marks the next step in Mini’s development of a compact SUV. The Beachcomber is a design update to Mini’s original Crossover concept, unveiled at the 2008 Paris Auto Show, which was the first exhibit of Mini’s ideas for an SUV. The beachcomber sits on top of the same chassis and suspension as the earlier concept, which should also serve as the bedrock of a future production vehicle. A vehicle that will feature ample ground clearance and suspension travel, if the Beachcomber is any indication. Just as an idea of how far off the Beachcomber is from transitioning to production, Mini has yet to say what engine or transmission will be under the hood. One thing we know is that Mini has coined the name ALL4 for the featured All-Wheel-Drive system.

Aesthetically, the Beachcomber looks a lot more up to the task of competing with the Wrangler than its predecessor. Unlike the Crossover concept, which had quite the set of doors, the Beachcomber, apparently inspired by the Mini Moke, has shed loose all doors, save for half a tailgate. Attached to the tailgate segment is not an external spare-tire cover, but an extra storage compartment that just so happens to resemble an external spare-tire cover. Squared-off headlights, a smaller grill with inset rally lights, and a muscular hood bulge combine for a tough look. The inclusion of four full-size neoprene racing-style seats puts cargo room at a premium, but the rear seatbacks do fold back for more room. The instrumentation includes a compass and an inclinometer for off-road forays as well as an artificial horizon gauge for no practical reason at all.