MINI Traveller

	The hinges are located behind the light clusters - a feature which was showcased on the concept. This means the lamps move with the doors, leaving wide and easy access to the boot

Exclusive images in this week's magazine show the new Traveller undergoing road testing, revealing the unique doors and quirky layout adopted for the British-built model. While the Traveller concept that has appeared at several motor shows over the past year has featured twin rear doors, the mag's pictures show how the idea will become a production reality.

The rear windscreen splits down the middle, while the num­ber plate drops from between the tail-lamps down into the bumper.

What's more, the hinges are located behind the light clusters - a feature which was showcased on the concept. This means the lamps move with the doors, leaving wide and easy access to the boot. But that's not the end of the MINI's amazing new bodystyle. Take a look at the pictures in this week's mag of the prototype in profile, and you will see a tell-tale strip of tape running from the roof to the sill ahead of the rear wheel.

This is hiding a second door shutline, because the MINI estate will get a pair of Mazda RX-8-style reverse-opening rear doors. These not only give easy access to the back seats, but also add yet another feature to make this model a must-have motor for buyers.

Inside, the dashboard will be identical to the one in the MINI MkII tested by Auto Express in Issue 921. But the key advantage of the long-wheelbase variant is found in the rear.

Increased space in the back seats means the MINI will have room for five adults and their luggage - making it a versatile alternative to models such as the Mercedes B-Class. The engine range is shared with the hatchback, as are the One, Cooper and Cooper S trim levels. A new 1.6-litre powerplant, developed in conjunction with Peugeot, is due to be offered in both naturally aspirated and turbocharged form, while buyers will also be able to specify a brand new diesel motor.

BMW has always planned to make the MINI line-up more than just a one-model range, but the sales success of the three-door means that its expansion plans have been slow-moving. While the second-generation three-door will be unveiled to the public at the Paris Motor Show later this month, the only thing company bosses will confirm about the arrival of the estate is that it will go on sale 'in the next three years'.

What's more, the car's name hasn't been announced, either. However, the load-lugger is expected to be badged Traveller, bringing back memories of the classic Mini Traveller and Country­man models of the Sixties.