Official: MINI duo is on its way

Two stunning new MINIs have been given the green light for production – before they’ve even appeared in public!

Last week, the BMW-owned firm said that it is to increase manufacturing at its plant in Cowley, Oxon, by introducing a pair of new models. That means the Coupé Concept is certain to become a feature on UK roads. But even more surprising is that a fresh vehicle to be unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show – hotly tipped to be the Speedster – will also be fast-tracked into production.

Both cars are expected to take MINI’s famous driving dynamics to new heights, by shedding weight and utilising top-end engines including the 1.6-litre turbo from the John Cooper Works special editions. The double-whammy was confirmed by Dr Norbert Reithofer, chairman of BMW’s board, during a visit to the factory where the hatch, convertible and Clubman are built. It’s a boost for the company, which was forced to lay off 850 people earlier in the year.

No launch date has been given, but insiders say the cars won’t arrive before 2011. Assembly of the Crossman SUV will start next year at Austria’s Magna Steyr plant.