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Chop And Change For MINI

Remember the Mini Moke? If so, you will understand where Milan-based coachbuilder Castagna got the idea for this, the Tender. Designers showed off a pair of brand new MINI variants at the Geneva Motor Show, including this open version.

By Ross Pinnock

09th March 2005

From the front, the Tender - which we previewed back in issue 826 - looks like a standard MINI, but it's actually 72cm longer. There is no roof, and the stylists have done away with the conventional doors, too. Instead, the model features a Jeep-style cut-out in either side.

The CrossUP is also longer than the British-built factory machine, but it retains the conventional hatch's roof. However, there's a pick-up-style load bed behind the rear screen. The off-road theme is continued with the addition of side steps and a boot-mounted spare wheel. Plain alloys and special side mouldings also give the car a more rugged look.
Existing MINI-based models from Castagna include the SUWagon - complete with bespoke suspension which can raise or lower the car - and the Wagon estate. The latter bears a close resemblance to the standard hatchback, but measures 25cm longer than normal. Traveller-style woodwork - which recreates the image of the Sixties' original - can also be specified.

The company offers customers a range of services, and specialises in coachbuilding, allowing buyers to have their coupĪƒ© turned into an estate, or their saloon converted into a limousine.

Meanwhile, the official MINI line-up will be boosted by another variant, but not for a while. Speaking at Geneva, brand manager Dr Kay Segler said: "There will be a new type of MINI, which we will be looking to add to the range in around 2008.

"Every different version that has been written about (such as the Clubman estate and the pick-up) is in the running, but we have to decide which one to go for."

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