MINI reveals Cowley and Swindon models

MINI has revealed the latest new models in its range expansion – a new two-berth caravan called Cowley and a two-man tent called Swindon.

The new MINI Cowley is a two-bed caravan that has been ‘sumptuously’ trimmed. It’s finished in the John Cooper Works colourscheme and has been launched, says MINI, to capitalise on the latest trend for ‘staycations’.

The styling mimics the interior door trim of a MINI – and, in a brilliant design touch, features sliding side windows just like the original classic 1959 Mini. It is just 120mm longer than a MINI Clubman and weighs less than 300kg.

Inside, the Cowley features a twin-burner gas stove, a water tank with pump and sink, an onboard battery charged by a solar module plus a 230-volt power connection that powers the refrigerator, TV and stereo.

MINI’s new Cowley caravan is another surprise new direction for the brand, following the launch of the business-orientated MINI Clubvan Concept at the Geneva Motor Show 2012.

“’Maximum touring pleasure on a minimal footprint’ is the formula for this exclusive pied-a-terre on wheels,” says MINI, “very much in the spirit of the creative use of space for which MINI is renowned.”

MINI has also launched a solution for John Cooper Works models that cannot be fitted with a towbar: a new MINI Swindon roof-top tent can be fitted to the top of MINI Hatch, Clubman or Countryman models, offering two-man space on top of a MINI.

It’s been designed to blend in with the design of the car when not in use and boasts a two-colour design: the lower shell is Midnight Black and the top section is Chili Red.

This combination is one previously reserved for John Cooper Works models, adding further exclusivity of the new MINI Swindon option.