MINI SUV takes on Ford Kuga

According to the latest issue of Auto Express (4th June 2008) the new MINI SUV 4x4, which will make it's debut at the Paris Motor Show in October, is looking to take on the new Ford Kuga SUV.

They think the SUV will have a strong family appeal with 5 doors and a longer wheel base which gives more room inside. Much of the interior will be carried over from the Clubman. Known as the Crossman it will feature the 1.6 petrol and Diesel engines. With the very economical 1.4 being unavailable although a 6 speed box should be an option. Interested buyers will be able to order the Cooper or Cooper S version.

Here at the British Mini Club we think it will be interesting to see if MINI decide to make a John Cooper Works version and what sort of price that would be. We reckon a JCW could touch £30,000 with all the extras fitted. The standard Cooper would need to be around £18,000 or so to compete with the Ford Kuga. Auto Express understand's that it will only be able to perform light off roading and more suited to the normal roads like the current fantastic MINI.

We still think it will be very interesting to see the price and whether or not it will appeal to MINI fans around the world. It might of course open up a whole new market for MINI.

To see images and the full Auto Express article please follow this link : www.autoexpress.co.uk