What May The Future Hold For MINI?

AutoGuide.com interviewed MINI USA VP Jim McDowell at the Geneva Motor Show. Here are some interesting tidbits from the interview:

• McDowell won't be surprised if the Countryman is the most fuel efficient crossover offered in the U.S.
• It is likely that MINI’s All4 AWD system will show up in other models in addition to the Countryman.
•  The recent engine updates made on European models will arrive for the 2011 model year cars in North America.
• Future MINI engines will likely get smaller and new drivetrain technology, such as a dual-clutch transmission, is likely to be added.

McDowell also indicated he wouldn’t be surprised if the MINI Roadster came to own the entry-level roadster segment that Mazda currently has locked-down with the Miata.