MINI Paceman Sets the Tempo at Paris Motor Show

PEABODY, MASS. (09/28/2012)(readMedia)-- MINI has maintained a torrid pace when it comes to revealing new models, and its latest, the aptly named MINI Paceman, made its formal debut at the Paris Motor Show this week. Based on the popular MINI Countryman, the Paceman is the seventh addition to the brand's lineup, and it will bring a sleek two-door alternative to the compact crossover segment when it goes on sale in the first quarter of 2013.

Designers ensured that the Paceman coupe wears the now iconic MINI face, but they added some unique cues, like an upward-sloping beltline and downward-sloping roof that combine to create a strong sense of movement. Meanwhile, the interior also gets a thoughtfully designed backseat setup that mimics a lounge, with two individual bucket seats and integrated armrests in the side panel trim.

"The MINI family is constantly growing and evolving, and it's funny that we're talking about the Paceman when it seems like just yesterday we were welcoming the new MINI Roadster," said Marshal Cabot, general manager of MINI of Peabody, a Greater Boston MINI dealer. "Not everybody wants a big, conventional crossover, and the Paceman is a great way to get capability and versatility in a sportier, more efficient package."

Sharing a chassis with the Countryman means the 2013 MINI Paceman has ample interior room. With all four seats occupied, there are 11.6 cubic feet of cargo space available, and that number expands to 38 cubic feet by simply folding the backseats flat. Additional storage capacity comes from the rail that runs between both pairs of seats, yet another feature the Paceman shares with its four-door brother.

Also, like the Countryman, the Paceman will be available with two different engine options, including a standard naturally aspirated 1.6-liter four-cylinder that produces 121 horsepower. For those that want added performance, the Paceman S will come with a turbocharged 181-horsepower version of the same engine, and buyers will be able to match that unit with MINI's ALL4 all-wheel-drive system.

The Paceman isn't the only new MINI earning attention at the Paris Motor Show, as it is sharing space with the MINI John Cooper Works GP, the fastest production MINI yet. Based on the already potent MINI Cooper John Cooper Works, the limited-edition GP pumps out more performance with custom aerodynamic touches and suspension revisions, which allowed the vehicle to navigate a lap on Germany's famed Nurburgring in just 8 minutes and 23 seconds. Pricing and availability for the United States have yet to be announced.

"MINI took its time developing the new GP and the result is an incredible machine that redefines what performance means for compact cars," added Cabot. "The best part about MINI though, is that you don't have to buy a special-edition track car to have a great time driving around. All MINI vehicles have a responsive feel on the road that simply can't be replicated by other brands."

About MINI of Peabody:

Since 2002, MINI of Peabody has been the leading source for new and used MINI vehicles in Northern New England. Their dedication to professional, friendly customer service allowed them to win the 2009 MINI Motoring Cup, a national award presented to the dealership that has the highest sales and customer satisfaction. Their new location in Peabody offers a state-of-the art service center and an expanded selection of MINI parts and accessories. See their MINI inventory or schedule a service appointment at www.minipeabody.com, call (877) 212-9727, like them on at www.facebook.com/miniofpeabody or visit their new showroom at 209 Andover Street (Route 114) in Peabody, Massachusetts.