World Auto News & Reviews

According to Auto Express, the decidedly adorable Mini Rocketman Concept from this year’s Geneva Motor Show might be headed for production as a new entry-level model within the next few years. If the rumors are to be believed, we could see the new mini Mini on the streets as early as 2014.

Auto Express suggests that a production version of the Rocketman could share a lot of its underpinnings with BMW’s new i3 city car. Executives were quick to dismiss the notion that a Mini vehicle would be produced under BMW’s “i” division, but that, “the technology we are developing for the ‘i’ family of cars will certainly be made available for the rest of the BMW Group.” Makes sense.

In the same way the John Cooper Works moniker designates high-performance models, Mini plans to use the Goodwood name as a sub-brand for high-end luxury versions of its cars. According to British magazine Autocar, which quotes sources from within the company, the Goodwood badge will be used on luxurious, bespoke Minis just like the JCW badge is put on its high-performance models.

Here’s a video showcasing MINI’s return to rally racing this season with the MINI Countryman WRC.

The brand is banking on its history in the sport to lend it some credibility as it embarks on a return after so many years of absence.

Last month at the Monte Carlo Historic Rally, MINI brought together its new crew, Kris Meeke and Dani Sordo, and the old duo of Rauno Aaltonen and Paddy Hopkirk who raced for the brand in the 1960s.

SsangYong will show a stylish new concept of its popular Actyon Sports at the Geneva Motor Show, 3-13 March. While maintaining the essential characteristics of a traditional pick-up, this concept presents a more contemporary look to reflect the styling expected of today’s Sports Utility Truck.

MINI’s ever expanding lineup is about to get bigger.  Building upon a previous report, new information is indicating the Paceman will go into production in 2012, ahead of its launch in 2013.

Details are limited, but Klaus Draeger – BMW’s head of research and development – told Kleine Zeitung the Paceman will be built by in Graz, Austria by Magna-Steyr. While the specifics haven’t been hammered out, annual production is targeted at 20,000 units.