Our spy photographers have picked up a prototype of the new Mini hatchback Mk3 while it was out testing in Germany. This is the third generation of the Mini since the BMW Group resurrected the brand in 2001.
The Mk3 will sit on a brand new modular platform architecture named “ULK1” that has been designed for both front- and all-wheel drive applications, and will be used on a great variety of Mini and BMW models including a replacement for the recently launched 1-Series hatchback.
The three-door hatchback prototype spied in these photos will be the first ULK1-based Mini to arrive in the market in late 2013, followed by a raft of new body styles such as a convertible and replacements for the Coupe and Roadster among other models.
It is believed that the new Mini hatch will be a little less mini growing slightly in length and width. For testing purposes, this particular prototype features a regular dashboard fitted in front of the driver, but the production model will keep the Mini’s traditional center mounted instrument panel.
In addition to a range of four-cylinder powerplants, the Mini Mk3 will also be offered with a new generation of three-cylinder turbocharged diesel and petrol engines with a displacement of 1.5-liters that will be available in different stages of tune.
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