McKenna: MINI Coupe, Roadster Dead By 2015

Cameron Aubernon
by Cameron Aubernon

The backwards-cap-wearing MINI Coupe and its Roadster brother are being taken out behind the shed, both going out of production next year.

AutoGuide reports MINI USA product chief Patrick McKenna made the announcement during last week’s LA Auto Show, proclaiming both had “run their life cycle.” The duo also were redundant compared with the hardtop and convertible already in the portfolio, and differences in styling and price didn’t attract many customers.

In their place, McKenna says higher-volume models over niche product will be the order of the day going forward, beginning with the launch of a four-door MINI for those who feel claustrophobic inside the main two-door unit.

Cameron Aubernon
Cameron Aubernon

Seattle-based writer, blogger, and photographer for many a publication. Born in Louisville. Raised in Kansas. Where I lay my head is home.

More by Cameron Aubernon

Comments
Join the conversation
4 of 29 comments
  • Psarhjinian Psarhjinian on Nov 25, 2014

    The problem is that there's really no market for a smaller, less practical Mini. Longer? Yes. Taller? Sure. But were people really considering Miatas because Mini lacked a two-seat variant?

  • Fordson Fordson on Nov 25, 2014

    Gah. Awful little cars.

  • BklynPete BklynPete on Nov 25, 2014

    I love the 2- and 4-door hardtops and I could be induced by a convertible or John Cooper Works, but I hate the rest of it. The spillover to BMW's FWD offerings are going to hurt everything.

  • Russycle Russycle on Nov 25, 2014

    I'll miss the roadster, I think it looks much better than the convertible, who's back seat is just a cruel joke anyway.

Next