No Replacements For MINI Coupe, Paceman, Roadster

Cameron Aubernon
by Cameron Aubernon

BMW’s MINI may not replace the Coupe, Paceman or Roadster when their day comes, opting to focus on three “pillar” models that allow the brand to be “more relevant to more people,” according to MINI head of product management Oliver Friedmann.

Automotive News Europe reports Friedmann’s first priority for MINI “is to roll out a portfolio that has strong pillars,” with each pillar being clear in what it means to the overall brand. With the original hatchback and Countryman identified as the first two pillars, a potential third pillar could come in the form of a compact model based upon the Clubman concept shown in Geneva.

As for the Coupe, Paceman and Roadster, Friedmann says the trio aren’t a priority to the brand at this time, with the possibility all three may end up in the crusher of history in the near future.

Cameron Aubernon
Cameron Aubernon

Seattle-based writer, blogger, and photographer for many a publication. Born in Louisville. Raised in Kansas. Where I lay my head is home.

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  • Daviel Daviel on Mar 18, 2014

    Agreed, BC. Just means they aren't selling.

  • Marcelo de Vasconcellos Marcelo de Vasconcellos on Mar 18, 2014

    COuld it be that BMW has tired of Mini and is now trying to find uses for their near future FWD cars?

    • ExPatBrit ExPatBrit on Mar 18, 2014

      I love Minis, especially the original Issigonis ones. But the Mini brand salvaged from Rover is a "one trick pony". Maybe BMW is worried that bringing some of the cheaper models to the US, like the Mini One and Mini D would cheapen the brand.

  • Slow_Joe_Crow Slow_Joe_Crow on Mar 18, 2014

    I welcome the passing of the backwards baseball cap roof line. It can't come too soon. The Paceman also strikes me a a pretty stupid device too.

  • Varezhka Varezhka on Mar 19, 2014

    The MINI Coupe/Roadster would have been an interesting vehicle if they swapped the front and the back for something like a mini MR2. As is, it look like a pointless styling exercise without the necessary style to warrant the extra model. This is BMW, though, with its million niche models. I wonder what other variant models we can expect from them in the coming years. Paceman convertible? Clubman ute?

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