These are the latest spy shots of the new MINI Crossman, expected hit showrooms in early 2010. MINI gave us a preview of its baby SUV model at last year's Paris Motor Show with the Crossover Concept. Our scoop pictures reveal that the production version will lose the prototype's relatively low-slung roof and most importantly, the two asymmetric doors on the driver's side that have been replaced by conventional ones for a more practical five-door layout.
At the rear, MINI will most likely ditch the prototype's huge side-hinged door for either a normal liftgate or a split tailgate similar to the one found on the Clubman.
Though heavily camouflaged with the usual 70's style patterns that we see on most BMW Group prototypes, it is apparent that the concept's gaudy face with the large sweptback headlights will be retained on the production Crossman.
The fourth variant of the MINI after the classic two-door hatch, the convertible and the estate-like Clubman, will be powered by a range of petrol and turbo diesel engines. The difference is that for the first time, MINI will offer the Crossman with a four-wheel drive layout.
In another first, the Crossman will be built for MINI by Austrian contract manufacturer, Magna Steyr, as the firm's factory in Cowley, England does not have sufficient capacity to handle the production.
