2011 MINI Crossman Preview

The main focus with the MINI Crossman has always been about taking the brand to a whole new level and marketplace. BMW took it upon themselves to enter the SUV arena by modifying its Cooper and Clubman models. With a higher and sturdier suspension, an all wheel drive capability and all of the luxuries found within an SUV, the MINI Crossman stands out amongst the competition as a "Mini Cooper with muscle".

The 2011 Mini Crossman has been discontinued by BMW. Some of the main points surrounding this cease of production revolve around BMW focusing on other brands provided by Mini as well as the competition in the marketplace already having a tight grip with the consumer's trust and reliability. If someone is looking for something similar in regards to what the MINI Crossman had to offer, below are a few strong SUV models that are worth comparison:

1) Jeep Grand Cherokee

As with all SUV branded vehicles, the Jeep Grand Cherokee will always stand at the top of the list when comparisons are made. With its superior suspension and its sedan like handling, most consumers are drawn to the rugged appeal with a touch of class that the Jeep has to offer.

2) Ford Explorer

The overhaul that the Ford Company has done with the Explorer has rejuvenated the brand that once dominated the SUV marketplace. A more spacious interior, better all around fuel economy and an innovative and futuristic approach towards its features, the Ford Explorer has positioned itself as the front runner to reclaim the SUV title once again.

3) Buick Enclave

The Buick Enclave represents the dream for most families. It has the abilities of an all wheel drive SUV while presenting the cabin and the room of a minivan. With incredible fuel economy, a very spacious cabin area and a driving experience similar to its top of the line sedans, Buick has outdone themselves with this entry into the SUV marketplace.

Preliminary Review of the Canceled Crossman

The 2011 MINI Crossman was a vehicle that rode higher and was designed to appeal more to the male demographic. This vehicle was also known as the Countryman. Front wheel drive was standard, but later all-wheel drive became available,; it would have been the biggest MINI vehicle ever. The Crossman is not planned for production. This initial car review detailed what we knew about this new, not-so-MINI vehicle.

Specifications

These are the known specifications of the 2011 MINI Crossman:

• Pricing: Crossman pricing has not been officially announced, but may start with a base MSRP of $30,000
• Fuel economy: official figures are not known; it may have a fuel efficiency in the vicinity of 26 mpg city/35 mpg highway
• Engine: 1.6-liter, 114 horsepower, four-cylinder engine
• Acceleration: MINI estimates a 0 to 60 mph time of 7.6 seconds
• Car safety features: traction control, airbags, run flat tires, antilock brakes
• Suspension: McPherson Struts in front, multilink in back
• Warranty: four-year/50,000 mile basic and powertrain warranty; three-year/36,000 miles maintenance; four-years roadside assistance; twelve years corrosion coverage

Exterior Features

The 2011 MINI Crossman has characteristics that are similar to many of the other MINI vehicles. It has a similar front, flat roof, and fairly vertical windshield. It has large wheels, and conventional doors. A roof rack is available for purchase. There should be many options, including wheel choices, adaptive headlights, a panoramic sunroof, and a John Cooper Works version.

Interior Features

The interior of the 2011 MINI Crossman will be able to seat four or five passengers. The second row will be elevated for better visibility, and can come with two bucket seats, or one three-person bench seat with a 60/40 split. With the rear seats reclined, there is 12.2 cubic feet of cargo space. Upright seats will offer 15.4 cubic feet of space, and folding the seats will give buyers 41 cubic feet of space. The vehicle should offer many customizations. Smartphone and iPod integration should be included.

Performance

The 2011 MINI Crossman has not been available for testing yet, but MINI reports that it should be able to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 7.6 seconds, and that it will have a top speed of 128 mph. A six-speed manual or automatic transmission should be available. The Crossman will come with a standard front-wheel drive configuration, but all-wheel drive will also be offered.

The 2011 MINI Crossman, also labeled as the MINI Countryman, is not expected to enter production.