Mini drops models in its move upmarket - Automotive News

Mini is revamping its model range, trimming three models and using a BMW Group architecture and engines. As the new cars become bigger and more luxurious, Mini will move the range upmarket and away from competing with cheap subcompacts. Mini will ditch slow-selling models -- the Roadster, Coupe and Paceman. Mini will pack its models with more high-tech safety and handling features, as well as high-end entertainment, in search of fatter margins. Executives have said they want the more expensive S versions to account for at least a third of sales and the high-performance John Cooper Works versions to double sales to 5 percent of the range. Paceman: The coupe version of the Clubman will be dropped in the next few years. Cooper: The Hardtop, a three-door hatch, will likely be freshened in 2016. It is the first car using the BMW Group's front-wheel-drive architecture. The Hardtop 4 Door, a five-passenger hatchback, will be freshened in late 2017 or early 2018. . The redesigned convertible goes on sale in early 2016. It will continue to have a soft-top roof and seat four passengers. Clubman: The new Clubman arriving early next year is 12. 4 inches longer and 4. 6. Source: www.autonews.com