On the heels of the Clubman, Mini is adding another new model to their product line. The “Crossman” will be Mini’s version of an SUV.

The Crossman will be manufactured in Austria at Magna International - where the BMW X3 is also produced - making it the first Mini to be built outside of the UK. The Mini Crossman is expected to have production numbers of around 45,000 units, with possible AWD and FWD versions. Mini says the Crossman should arrive on the market in 2010.

Mini seems fixated with the letter C (Cooper, Clubman and now Crossman).

How freaky! This vehicle resembles a character from the movie CARS. Sort of looks like Mater’s Rhineland cousin Fritz.
Continue reading →

That’s right, Pappa Frank’s little girl has given up on her foray into politics and is returning to the CEO position at the Magna International. For those who have been asleep, Magna is one of the companies in the running to buy Chrysler from Daimler. It seems like a pretty timely move for Belinda to make a return to the house that Frank built. In a TV interview last night, the still sexy at 40 Stronach said that she’s looking forward to her involvement with high level projects but would not comment further on the upcoming DCX meetings.

Perhaps her boyfriend can help muscle the negotiations along.

Read the full story here

We don’t normally comment too much on the business side of things here in The Garage, but this is too close to home to ignore. Just-Auto is reporting that GTA based Magna International may be looking to step into the bidding ring for Chrysler. The purchase would be a logical one, as Magna has long been a supplier to Chrysler and even runs an assembly plant for DCX in Austria.

Some industry folks will likely worry that Magna will lock out any other suppliers in order to ensure they have full control. That looks like a pretty valid worry, as Magna is definitely a powerhouse parts manufacturer.
Continue reading →