BMW's Mini plans to launch mini SUV; to be positioned below Countryman

BMW-owned British car brand Mini is known for smart looking small cars. Mini Cooper, Cooper Convertible, Clubman and Countryman are the models of Mini while the company is reportedly planning to add a mini SUV by 2021.

Mini Countryman is a compact SUV model in the portfolio and the upcoming model will be slotted below it, reports Auto Express. The model in question will use the brand's next generation of chassis technology – and that means electric power will be a given for the new small SUV, the report adds.

When asked about a smaller SUV than the Countryman, BMW board of management member Peter Schwarzenbauer said to Auto Express, "That would be an interesting option, especially when you look around. There are few car types in the world right now that fit into every market. A small urban SUV is definitely a segment that is extremely interesting"

Mini has also ruled out the rumours over a big SUV. "That would not fit with MINI's DNA – we would not make a seven-seater or something like that," the publication quoted Schwarzenbauer as saying. "I think a Countryman is a maximum size and the right thing for MINI, but I wouldn't see it getting any bigger," he added.

Ahead of the mini SUV's arrival, the company will bring an electric small car by 2019. The company has introduced Mini Electric Concept, which will act as a frontrunner to its upcoming EV. The pictures released shows it oozes quintessential MINI characters -- compactness, agility and sportiness.

Mini has reserved interior and powertrain details of the concept under wraps. Multiple reports claim it will be powered by a lithium-ion battery. The electric drivetrain for the upcoming model will be built at the group's e-mobility centre at Plants Dingolfing and Landshut in Bavaria before being integrated into the car at Plant Oxford, which is the main production location for the Mini 3 door model. The powertrain for the upcoming mini SUV is also expected to take shape in there.