For some unexplained reason, Mini has discovered a deep-seated love for nature introducing not one, but two different conceptions targeting buyers that love going out and enjoying the environment. Following the presentation of the two camping solutions, the British brand has crafted together a new amphibious model called the MINI Cooper Yachtsman and revealed it online before it makes its world premiere at the New York International Auto Show, right beside the Hudson River.
“Our exciting MINI Cooper Yachtsman is the ultimate extension of the MINI brand, expanding our line-up to seven models in the USA and offering consumers even more ways to enjoy MINI ownership in a manner best-suited to their individual taste and location,” said Jim McDowell, Vice President of MINI USA.
The new Mini can carve through water at speeds up to 61 knots, thanks to its turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that generates 181-horses – or is that fish?
Despite the fact that it weighs in at a hefty 4,600 pounds, the amphibious Mini is capable of completing the 0 to 60 mph (96km/h) sprint on land in 6.6 seconds and in 2.4 minutes on water, while its top speed on hard ground is 141 mph (227km/h).
Other special features include the waterproof rip-stop upholstery, seat cushions that double as flotation devices in case you hit an iceberg, and a Marine Chronometer for celestial navigation.
The first production example is scheduled to launch on the same day in a year's time with pricing estimated to be around US$236,000.
