Mini to cut 3 models as competition prompts overhaul

BERLIN (Bloomberg) -- Mini, BMW's urban-car brand, will cease production of its coupe, roadster and Paceman crossover, reversing course on a strategy of adding variants as those three vehicles failed to spark growth.Mini will focus on five models, including the trademark hatchback and the Countryman crossover. The goal is to make the vehicles more upscale to set them apart from trendy rivals such as the Fiat 500, Nissan Juke and Opel Adam.“This will be the start of a new era for Mini,” said Peter Schwarzenbauer, the BMW Group executive who oversees the division. The brand is “kicking off a new chapter where we’re going to expand into the premium compact class.”Schwarzenbauer on Wednesday formally introduced a product strategy that he outlined last autumn. The revamped Clubman wagon reflects the new Mini. The 23,900-euro ($26,800) model is 320mm (12.6 inches) longer than its predecessor and more practical with four passenger doors and seating for five. The styling is more understated, with smoother lines and daytime running lights, framing the round headlights.In keeping with Mini’s urban credentials, Clubman owners will be able to rent their car to others via BMW’s DriveNow car-sharing venture. The option, which will be available first in the U.S., also offers a keyless system to let a group of friends or family share the same car.“The move upmarket is a sensible one,” said Tim Urquhart, a London-based analyst at forecaster IHS Automotive. “They are certainly making the cars more sophisticated, larger and boosting equipment levels,” which should lift prices. Remaining models

Mini to cut 3 models as competition prompts overhaul

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