What is it?
The latest in a series of Mini concepts shown around the world, the Concept Detroit applies a sports theme to an extended-body version that seats four. This longer version provides more passenger and cargo space than the current Mini Cooper, as well as improved access with larger doors. The rear glass hatch swings upward, with twin side-hinged half doors swinging wide from the body to provide access. This configuration creates a visually appealing show floor presentation, but it requires opening three doors to access the rear, rather than lifting a single hatch (as on the production model). The front bucket seats are mounted on a pedestal that provides more rear footwell space and allows the leather-wrapped front seats to pivot for easier rear-seat access. The sports theme is conveyed with a white paint and leather accented by silver and blue, much like an athletic shoe. To address gear-toting needs, there are exterior storage bins mounted to the rear side glass, as well as a roof rack.
What is new or notable?
Beneath the auto show dressing lurks a new model variant of the Mini Cooper that is in line for production after the next-generation car debuts. This extended body traces its history to the early 1960s Morris Mini Traveller.
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