Resembling a cross between the Mini Coupe and Countryman, the Paceman is built on the same platform as the Countryman and designed to use the 211-horsepower, turbocharged, 1.6-liter I-4 engine from the John Cooper Works model Minis. The adaptation of Mini’s ALL4 all-wheel-drive system allows owners to feel as rugged as a flannel shirt while cruising mall parking lots in washed-silk comfort. In normal driving, ALL4 sends 100-percent of the power to the front axle, but an electromagnetic center differential allows as much as half of the car’s power to be sent to the rear axle in low-grip situations. The suspension system is also lifted from the Countryman using a MacPherson strut in front with a multi-link system in back. Mini states that the Paceman delivers typical Mini agility and confidence while maintaining the compliant and comfortable ride customers expect in this segment.
Styling of the Paceman is described by Mini as urban, sporting and masculine. The idea of an urban off-roader seems oxymoronic, possibly even light on the “oxy” part, but it’s hard to deny that our initial peek does look interesting. Mini's initial renderings made us think that every panel on the car is bespoke. If the Paceman does see production, odds are it will share some pieces with other Mini offerings for cost saving. The Paceman is expected to form the basis for Mini's impending World Rally Championship entry.
The interior already looks as if it shares some pieces with the Countryman, using the same dual center rail system and four individual seats. The styling is classic Mini, featuring a large center-mounted speedometer and round air vents. The martini holders look to be a new touch, obviously a necessity for attracting the urban, rugged, masculine demographic Mini is shooting for with this crossover.