New MINI Crossman caught testing

The new MINI Crossman caught testing at the Nurburgring

Yes, the MINI has become ubiquitous ( to its detriment), and sales have fallen off, despite the plethora of variations on the market. But that’s not stopped BMW from pushing on with the MINI Crossman, which has been spotted testing at the Nurburgring this week.

But, although I’ve moaned that MINI has lost its way of late, this particular MINI, odd though it may sound in concept, could be a real winner.

It’s no secret that the world fell in love with 4x4s in the last decade. Not because of their off-road ability but because people liked the high-driving position; it made them feel safer; more in control. And in essence this is a high-riding MINI. And in tough economic times it might just be a winner.

To help the equation, it would seem that BMW are intent on keeping all the MINI characteristics onboard the new car. Good performance, great handling and an all-round clever package. Engines for the MINI Crossman are reckoned to be the 1.4 Diesel and the 1.6 petrol turbo, with a full-fat JCW model in the offing (how much will that cost?!).

MINI Crossover Concept

And the MINI Crossman could prove competition for the new breed of CUVs (Compact Urban Vehicles) that are sprouting up, like the Nissan Qazana and the Ssangyong C200. Basically, tough little high-riding cars perfect for the Urban Environment. It’s also speculated that MINI will produce a 2-wheel drive version of the Crossman as an entry level model.

Maybe all is not lost with the MINI’s direction after all.