Gearing up for its Frankfurt Motor Show debut, our spy photographers have just delivered the best pictures yet of MINI’s upcoming Crossman CUV. The largest MINI offering is nearing its final stages with some of its signature psychedelic camouflage being removed.

Despite a strong family resemblance, the Crossman will actually ride on a unique platform. The new architecture was needed to accommodate the Crossman’s all-wheel drive system and higher ride height. As noted, the basic chassis and most components will be shared with the BMW X1, though the models won’t have any visual similarity.

Compared to the standard Cooper, the Crossman will ride just over 3 inches higher and will measure in at over four meters (157 inches). A 102.6 inch wheelbase and 72 inch width make the crossover larger than any previous MINI. The base model Crossman, shown here, will be powered by the same 118 horsepower 1.6L four-cylinder used in the Cooper.

Unlike the long-wheelbase Clubman, the Crossman has two doors on each side, rather than one on the right and two on the left. In concept guise, this MINI has a sliding door on the driver’s side, and a regular one on the passenger’s side. We suspect both sides will have regular doors come production, but anything’s possible.

Out back, spy shots reveal the Crossman will use a twin-door setup, similar to the one used on the Clubman.

While the X1 will be built in South Carolina, the Crossman will be assembled by Austria’s Magna Steyr. Both models will be sold in the U.S., but it remains unclear if their diesel versions will make the trek across the Atlantic. However, with stricter CAFE regulations looming, it remains a distinct possibility that the U.S. could see an oil-burning option.

The 2011 MINI Crossman will make its debut at September’s Frankfurt Motor Show, with sales slated to begin shortly after. Expect the Crossman to be priced from about $29,000.

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