Mini Slices its Brand Even Thinner: Hybrid, Hardtop Set, New EV Coming

Rumors out of Britain are that there are at least three new Minis in the works with at least one of them being readied to hit the market in March 2014. Word is that while a second-generation electric Mini and a front-wheel-drive hybrid Mini are being perfected, an all-new hardtop Mini is nearly ready to make its debut this November before being rolled onto dealership floors March next year.

The way that Mini designs, builds and offers new models is interesting and a way that its legions of fans find both captivated and frustrating. With each announcement of a new model comes much gnashing of teeth and renting of clothing as the fans wail that their brand is on the brink of being sliced into nothingness. However, up until now, Mini has been able to keep on keeping on by marketing thinly sliced offerings of its popular brand.

How many models do you think is too many for such a niche vehicle? These three will bring the total to 10. Surely, the new-model madness is reaching its limit.