REPORT: MINI-ute in development

With the MINI Clubman rapidly approaching production, and the new cabrio coming along, the BMW-owned automaker is reportedly working on another variation of the theme: the MINI crossover.

Although rumors have been bouncing around for a while of a MINI-derived mini-ute, the automotive sleuths over at MotoringFile say they have it on good authority that the vehicle has been given the green light for production, and has now entered the development phase.

Alternately code-named R59 or R60 and referred to internally as the "Colorado", the crossover is reported to be based on the Clubman, but with more rugged styling, a larger body, possibly more doors (suicide rear doors would be a smart choice) and a new advanced all-wheel-drive system.

The news also comes hot on the heels of the reported Fiat 500 crossover derivative. Let the retro wars begin.

[Source: MotoringFile]