A new 4×4 MINI looks set to join the MINI range.

The MINI Crossover Concept shows MINI’s current thinking on how the new model will look.

It features more rugged styling and 4×4 ability.

It’s also longer, at 4 metres, for improved interior practicality.

The MINI Crossover also feature four doors for drivers and passengers – the current Clubman estate has a small ‘suicide’ rear passenger door on the driver’s side.

The MINI Crossover features two conventional doors on the passenger’s side (front and back). There’s also a conventional door for the driver. However, the fourth door – for the rear passenger on the driver’s side – slides back along the outside of the car for convenient access and loading.

The MINI Crossover will be shown at the Paris Motor Show next month.

MINI owners BMW say the Crossover is the basis for a production 4×4 MINI – likely to be late 2009 or early 2010.

New four-wheel drive version of Clubman estate