It's been a long time coming, but MINI has issued the first official images of its two-seat coupé model.
Wearing a steep, angular roof (described by MINI as a 'helmet' roof), complete with an active rear spoiler, it looks every inch the trend-setting small sports car.
It should have the poke to match the popularity too, as the Coupé will be available with the most powerful petrol and diesel engines in MINI's arsenal - the 143hp 2.0-litre turbodiesel SD unit and the 210hp 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol JCW (John Cooper Works) lump.
Expect 0-100km/h in 6.4 seconds from the latter and the same sprint in 7.9 seconds from the former. The oil burner will also be capable of 4.3 litres/100km (65.7mpg) and 114g/km.
The Coupé isn't just a styling exercise, either. MINI claims that it will be the most engaging variant in its line-up, with a unique chassis set-up and optimum torsional rigidity. No doubt it will be brimming with the familiar driving sensations that we've come to expect from MINI's existing models, though.
Cooper and Cooper S models will also be available when the Coupé goes on sale later in the year, following its unveiling in the metal at the Frankfurt Motor Show this September.