Detroit motor show 2011 - Mini Paceman

Here’s another car that regular readers will already know a lot about, but which is being shown in the metal for the first time here in Detroit.

A lot of Mini fans will take a look at this striking Paceman concept car and think 'wow'! Many others might look at the three-door coupe version of the Countryman and think 'why?'

You can read the full story of the ‘Countryman Coupe’s’ design here

Whether or not it gets built depends to a large degree on reaction from the audience here in Detroit.

If, as expected, it gets positive reviews then you can expect to see it in showrooms – minus the concept car eccentricities – midway through next 2012.

Prices will start at around £22,000 – that’s high for a supermini-sized car, but all the evidence is that Mini owners will be more than happy to pay.