Mini Beachcomber Concept

New details emerge about the Mini Beachcomber Concept, a prototype that will be presented at the next Detroit Motor Show. Inspired by the original Mini Moke and clear anticipation of future Countryman 4 × 4, the Beachcomber is equipped with the 1.6 turbo petrol 174 bhp Mini Cooper S to the town and a four wheel drive system called All4.

The car is 4.07 meters long, 135 mm longer than the Clubman, which is also distinguished by a longer wheelbase of 59 mm. The controller design defines the Mini Gert Hildebrand, in an interview with Autocar, a sort of “collection of ideas to draw on for future models, exploring new solutions more or less fanciful: a greater commitment to off-road, great attention to the fun pure. In case of inclement weather are made of a fabric-covered transparent plastic parts to replace missing doors and roof, just like the original Moke, allowing, however, when possible to keep the four occupants at the center of the open space. Hildebrand noted that some of the aesthetic characterization, like the grille, which draw upon the Mini models of the past, will also be present on production models, to keep the DNA of the original model introduced in 1959.

Such a choice, despite the declarations of the house made some reinforcements to the frame, is unlikely to arrive intact to mass production, so it is possible that a future series of Beachcomber is forced to abandon its present appearance, in favor of a simple roof panoramic fabric and, perhaps, greater characterization of mini-SUVs. Just off-road inspired accessories such as body guards, plus the wheel with tires 17 “for the specific off-road, suspension with more travel and angles of attack, aided by short overhangs front and rear. Note the side-opening tailgate, in this case with a container that simulates the presence of a spare wheel: using run-flat tires, in another container becomes a leaf, perhaps wet or dirty equipment used in activities sports.