Mini Reveals Crossover Concept In Paris, Declines To Go Off-Roading

Mini just revealed their Mini Crossover Concept — the first SUV from the diminutive BMW brand — here at the Paris Motor Show. The concept car's supposedly a first look at what we should expect from the 2011 Mini Crossman. Now that we've seen it live and in the flesh we can conclusively say — it looks like a Mini Clubman with lifts and an extra full-size door for fun on the passenger side. Want to know more? Hit the jump. More »

Mini Off-Road Crossover Concept Includes Laser-Projected 3D In-Car Entertainment Globe

The off-road Mini Crossover Concept may be small on the outside, but on the inside there's a giant 3D globe that utilizes laser technology to integrate all of the car's entertainment, communication and navigational features into a touchscreen interface. The globe splits into hemispheres allowing the driver to check out a map while a passengers surfs the web. Intense laser projection displays information, in both text and graphic form, at multiple layers within the globe. The driver can either interface with the system by touching the globe or by using the trackball on the steering wheel — which also acts as the "key." Passengers can use the pop-out keyboard or slide controls below the globe. While this is still very much a concept, all the technology for it exists and we wouldn't be surprised to see Mini incorporate many of these features on a feature vehicle. Full description in the press release below the jump. More »