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Mini Colorado in the pipeline
By Yoann Besnard on 24 July 2007 | 
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According to the Globe and Mail newspaper, BMW plans to launch a Mini SUV based on the Mini Clubman, set to be launched officially at the Frankfurt Motor Show.
Dubbed Mini Colorado, it may be built in the Magna's Austrian factory based in Graz and formerly known as Steyr Puch. Steyr Puch became famous through its production of the Mercedes G-Class and its specialisation in four wheel drive systems. BMW is currently discussing with Magna International the production of 65,000 vehicles per year.
For Magna International, it is an opportunity to replace Chrysler 300C built there sold in Europe. As it plans to shift production to its plant base in Brampton, Canada, the Mini Colorado will easily replace the 26,500 300C built last year. Unfortunately it will not be enough to replace the X3 SUV. BMW decided to build the next generation in its own factory in Spartanburg in the U.S. This is a 113,000 vehicle loss for Magna.
Source: Globe and Mail
