The Euro classic we have come to know and love is now able to handle more than urban terrain.
 
Mini’s Beachcomber Concept shares the same platform as the new Mini Cooper, but that is where the similarities end. The Beachcomber benefits from larger tires and more ground clearance, which render it capable on more than just pavement. Also, the Beachcomber is outfitted with Mini’s new four wheel drive system, dubbed ALL4.
 
The short wheelbase of the Mini coupled with four wheel drive and higher ground clearance will make this Mini a force to be reckoned with off the track.
 
This Mini was designed without doors or a conventional roof for a more “open” driving experience. Door and roof elements are available though for bad weather, and can be installed in minutes.
 
The interior is typical Mini, center speedometer and relatively bare-bones trim, spare a few extraneous gauges (a liquid-sprung compass and artificial horizon, to name a couple).
 
Inspiration for this concept traces back to the Mini Moke, a 1960s icon that was composed of little more than a floorpan, engine compartment lid, and a windshield. Designers of the Beachcomber imitated the simple interior as well as the radiator grille design of the Moke.
 
The frame of the Beachcomber is composed of high-strength steel, which improves handling and helps it exceed all crash safety standards. The turbocharged, 175 horsepower 1.6L engine will be sure to impress, especially when dropped into a vehicle of this size.
 
The Mini Beachcomber is sure to make a splash when it debuts at the North American International Auto Show in January.
 
 
theCD’s take: We can expect a very unique driving experience from this new crossover. Knowing Mini, we wouldn’t expect anything less.
 
 
 
 Source: BMW