BMW ditches minivan project
* RFK R-Class rival is scrapped * Concept CS will get 'hatchoon' * Hybrid X6 won't go on sale in the UK...
BMW's future model line-up will not feature the much-vaunted RFK, which was mooted as a rival to Mercedes' R-Class.
Sources within the company have confirmed that the seven-seat minivan has been canned because it doesn't fit with BMW's image. RFK stands for Raum Funktioelle Koncept.
Concept CS
However, it has been confirmed that BMW's rival to the Mercedes CLS, codenamed Concept CS, will feature a part-hatchback, part-saloon boot opening as first seen on the new Skoda Superb.
Dubbed the 'hatchoon', this system combines the security of a separate boot and the versatility of a hatchback.
The Concept CS is a four-door coupe, and reports suggest it might be designated the 8 Series when it goes into production.
However, BMW hasn't given any launch date for the car yet.
Hybrid X6
The hybrid power system that was launched with much flourish at last year's Frankfurt motor show will be available on the X6 next year - but not in the UK.
Instead, the system has been deemed to be more suitable to the US market, where there is bigger demand for hybrid power.
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