BMW: Cheeky little coupe

The Coupe-concept is due to star at September's Frankfurt Motor Show to celebrate BMW's 50th birthday. Photo / Supplied

BMW has released images of a sexy Mini coupe concept that BMW NZ says could be built.

The two-seater coupe's low centre of gravity and optimal weight distribution enhance the car's sporting focus, the swooping roofline removing the rear seats that anyway are of limited use to most buyers.

The Coupe-concept is due to star at September's Frankfurt Motor Show to celebrate the brand's 50th birthday. The show car will be fitted with the 155kW/ 260Nm 1.6-litre twin-scroll turbo engine from the Mini John Cooper Works.

This concept is actually longer than the standard four-door Mini but lower, with a more steeply raked windscreen to enhance that purposeful shape. Although the car's face is familiar, the front air dam has been reworked to exaggerate the width of the front track, while other body panels carry over from existing variants - the front side panels are lifted from the convertible, for example.

But that rear is clearly unique. The C-pillar and rear spoiler actually increase downforce over the rear axle.

Mini says deleting the back seats hasn't compromised usefulness, with the 250-litre boot just 10 less than the Clubman and considerably roomier than the standard four-door car's.

With current drivetrains and suspension and some shared body components, plus a practical approach to the cabin that exchanges the rear seats singleton owners rarely use for more luggage space, this coupe-concept is clearly production capable, while its attractive look and sporting persona suit the brand's cheeky character. We can't wait to try it.