Edmunds has learned that not every model in MINI’s current lineup will be replaced when their current cycle is up.
MINI‘s current lineup consists of seven models that range from the Cooper Hardtop to the four-door Countryman and the two-seater MINI Roadster. Edmunds has learned that not every model in MINI’s current lineup will be replaced when their current cycle is up. Jim McDowell, vice president of Mini USA, told Edmunds that MINI’s two core models, the Cooper Hardtop and the Countryman account for 75 percent of the brand’s sales, so they are safe, but other models may disappear in the next few years.
“When we start to replace models, I think you will see that we won’t replace every model exactly.”
“When I joined Mini, we knew that we would have two models. Ultimately, we (now) have seven. We are starting the next generation a year from now. We know that we will have a pretty broad lineup. You may actually put your chess pieces on the board differently if you know that you can have seven.”
McDowell also answered questions about the Rocketman concept, which was unveiled two years ago at the Geneva Motor Show. Production rumors have been surfacing ever since it debuted, but McDowell says that no production plans have been officially confirmed and that the current MINI engines and transmissions are too heavy for a car as small as the Rocketman. The Rocketman concept only measures about 135 inches long.
