MINI at the Los Angeles Auto Show 2012.

Note: This press release is a 1:1 copy of the original issued by MINI headquarters in Germany. No adaptations have been made to cater for the UK market.

 The MINI Paceman is breathing new life into the premium compact segment as the first Sports Activity Coupé in its class. The latest MINI model is set to celebrate its North American premiere in the technology, design and entertainment hot spot of Los Angeles, with the extrovert four-seater’s US debut forming the centrepiece of the MINI stand at this year’s Los Angeles Auto Show, which runs from 30 November to 9 December 2012. Alongside the new addition to the brand’s line-up, MINI is also treating its Californian audience to an array of its other current models and products.

The arrival of the brand’s seventh model heralds the beginning of another new chapter in the growth of the British premium automaker. A sustained period of success in the USA has made a considerable contribution to the brand’s rude health. Indeed, the US has been MINI’s most important single market for a number of years now. The brand’s most recent growth statistics have been boosted by the popularity of the MINI Countryman which, as the first MINI with four doors and a large tailgate, has won over new target groups to the brand. As well as its extra practicality, the Countryman mimics its stablemates in serving up the driving fun for which MINI is renowned. And now a detailed model update shines the spotlight even more brightly on the premium interior of all MINI Countryman variants. The MINI Countryman is one of the models on display at the Los Angeles Auto Show.

MINI Paceman: unique looks, unmistakable driving fun.

With its two doors and large tailgate, the MINI Paceman brings an air of sporting elegance and individualism to the premium compact segment. It is the second MINI model (after the Countryman) with an exterior length exceeding four metres and the option of ALL4 all-wheel drive. The exterior design of the MINI Paceman projects a clear expression of this fresh new sportiness, individuality and versatility. Powerful proportions and dynamically stretched lines provide a window into the car’s agile driving characteristics. Inside, the passengers in the two individual rear seats also enjoy generous levels of space, outstanding lateral support and impressive comfort in a lounge ambience.

Two four-cylinder petrol engines will be available from the launch of the MINI Paceman in the USA. Their combination of considerable brawn and extensive MINIMALISM technology is a recipe for sports performance and exceptionally low fuel consumption. The powerplant under the skin of the MINI Cooper Paceman generates peak output of 121 hp, while the MINI Cooper S Paceman boasts a turbocharged engine producing 181 hp. The two units channel their power to the front wheels through a six-speed manual gearbox as standard; a six-speed automatic is optional for both model variants. The MINI Cooper S Paceman can also be ordered as an option with ALL4 all-wheel drive.

Continuing growth, inimitable style: the MINI model family.

The constant expansion of the MINI model range has fuelled the brand’s growth around the world. The MINI family now comprises seven vehicle types, each of which adds its own particular flavour to the familiar MINI driving fun. This broader appeal has brought MINI cars onto the radar of new target groups.

The brand’s successful assault on the US market began in 2002 with the classical MINI Hatch. The addition to the range of the MINI Convertible and MINI Clubman was followed by the arrival of the MINI Countryman – the first MINI model to feature four doors and a large tailgate. Since then the MINI Coupé and MINI Roadster have both swelled the MINI ranks, with the youngest member of brand’s family – the MINI Paceman – being unveiled at the 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show.

First held in 1907, the LA event represents the climax of the international car show calendar and offers a fascinating look ahead to the trends of the upcoming season. Automotive manufacturers and suppliers from around the world will present their latest models and products at the Los Angeles Convention Center alongside futuristic studies and concept cars.