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      11-06-2012, 02:08 PM   #15
SCOTT26
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The prototype is still extensively camouflaged. Although in some pictures the light actually hits the elements that appear on the concept such as the dramatic sharp glasshouse and the lower flanks triangular surface design element. The bootlids as per all BMW's are extensively camouflaged when they do not run the full light units .

The finished car is 90% of the concept.
If the concept is shown at LA later this month then it will give an idea whether the car will be offered in the US.

The twin exhaust on each side actually betrays the MINI origins as various MINI models showcase this and will continue to do so with the next generation. The MINI Cooper S of course will retain the characteristic central twin exhaust.

Having seen that Mercedes-Benz are preparing the AMG B-Klasse B45 AMG , friends have asked will we see the M badge in front of the Active Tourer? I would say at this time possibly not an M badge but there could be an M Performance, there will definitely be a M Sport packet for the new car.

The issue regarding the FWD cars is that first of all the priority is establishing the product before venturing to the vanity side of marketing. Potentially the upcoming 3dr City hatch with its sportier looks could be a candidate as a hypothetical M car after establishment to offer something with more potential should the car be a success. M likes a challenge and an attempt to make an M FWD small hatch could very much be successful as the MINI JCW.

However that is hypothetical at the moment but BMW's management are clear not to fall into the trap of vanity like Audi's A1 quattro - its sold out but the media extend that the car still suffers from the driver related issues as the standard hatch. Should M go down that route then it has to be different from the standard car in every way possible which is what M excell at anyway.
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The M850i is evidence that BMW have got their mojo back when it comes to dynamic sports cars...
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