The 2011 Detroit Auto Show is the host of a new MINI premiere. The “X6 Coupe of the MINI world”, MINI Paceman, is a coupe-like vehicle built on the MINI Countryman platform. The Sports Activity Coupe from MINI retains the familiar MINI family front end, but adds its own distinctive design cues.

At a first glance, MINI Paceman resembles the last year’s release Countryman. The large headlights with chrome surrounds extend far into the front wings and, together with the strikingly contoured bonnet, emphasize the imposing front end.

Additional intakes in the lower section of the front bumper ensure improved brake ventilation and combine with the study’s deep-set fog lamps to sharpen its sporting edge. The side scuttle has a broad, sturdy-looking design and leads the eye from the A-pillar down towards the front wheel, making it an unmistakable, sporty, wheel-accentuating feature.

Large 19-inch wheels designed exclusively for the study car and dark wheel arch borders with side skirts highlighted in the same colour team up with the familiar MINI shoulder line rising up slightly towards the rear to underline the car’s sporty and powerful appearance.

No information were released on the potential engines that will power the Paceman, nor whether the car will indeed make it to production.