Following rumors of a new-age MINI Moke, BWM’s MINI division has unveiled the Beachcomber Concept the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.
Based on the same platform that will underpin the forthcoming MINI Countryman, the Beachcomber Concept offers us a look at a tougher MINI model. In order to back up its tough off-road looks, the Beachcomber features MINI’s ALL4 all-wheel drive system and 17-inch wheels wrapped in off-road rubber.
MINI kept mum on the Beachcombers technical details, but we suspect one of MINI’s familiar four-cylinder engines rests beneath the concept’s hood. Given the Beachcomber’s added size and off-road ability, a turbocharged mill is likely lurking underhood.
Similar to the Jeep Wrangler , the Beachcomber features removable doors and roof that can be fitted with soft or hard panels. The Concept’s spare tire has also been move to the rear door, giving an added off-road look while also making room for more ground clearance.
It remains to be seen if the MINI Beachcomber Concept has any production value, but we’ve heard it could begin rolling out of MINI’s Oxford plant by late 2012.
