What Car? drives the new Mini - Will there be other new Minis?

Once the hatchback range has been launched next summer, Mini will turn its attention to a new retro version of the Traveller estate due in 2008. It has been shown in concept form at various motor shows (pictured) and the production version will be very similar, with extra space for bodies and bags.

Today's Mini Convertible was launched in 2004 and will continue on sale until 2009, when it will be replaced by another soft-top model. Insiders told whatcar.com that they would not pursue the current trend for folding hard tops, as they add unnecessary weight and expense.

Further in the future, Mini is considering launching spin-offs as the British brand chases global sales of nearly a quarter of a million by 2008. Open-top speedster and pick-up variants have all been mooted.