Mini to showcase creative project with Vagabund at Auto China 2026 

MANILA: Mini will showcase its new creative project with Austrian design studio Vagabund at Auto China 2026. 

Per the BMW Group-owned marque, it will bring two unique one-off builds based on the Mini Countryman S ALL 4 that aim to make a bold statement about adventure spirit, community culture, and festival lifestyle. 

“Two vehicles that reinterpret the versatility and openness of the Mini Countryman in a new way. Distinctively redesigned wheel arches create a visually wider stance and give the vehicles a striking look,” the company wrote in a press release. 

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Ebony, ivory 

The two project cars boast a bold color concept with one finished in Melting Silver and the other in Midnight Black. 

White body exterior details mixed with sand-colored accents present a playful, graphic, and light vibe for the former color scheme, while the latter features a monochrome black finish, which sends a message that the vehicle is precise and technical. 

Despite the difference in hue, these crossovers share distinct bodywork, such as eye-catching wheel arches that create a visually wider stance and a further striking appearance. 

They also wear a front bumper attachment that ensures a harmonious connection between wings and the original front apron. Further, their front and rear bumpers are color-coordinated with the additional body modifications, with the radiator grille being revised accordingly. 

Along the side sills are prominent “VAGABUND” lettering with a three-dimensional element. 

From this angle, the raised ride height further emphasizes the off-road character of the two Mini Countryman models, as well as the fitted 20-inch wheels, which boast intentionally closed-off three-dimensional-printed wheel cover designs. 

Likewise, the cars have a roof rack that consists of three laser-cut and folded aluminum plates, complemented by an integrated stainless-steel mesh surface. 

The said build, Mini noted, creates a connection between the roof, side profile, and overall vehicle design — turning the roof rack into an integral design element. 

“For us, design does not begin with the object, but with the idea behind it — and it only ends when that idea becomes tangible. The Mini x Vagabund one-offs translate a clear concept into an experiential statement. Two distinctive characters, united by Mini Countryman DNA, create a composition full of tension — making design visible as an emotional experience,” Vagabund Co-founder and Creative Head Paul Brauchart said. 

Echoing his statement was Mini Design Head Holger Hampf, who commented: “Mini Design stands for vehicles with strong character that people enjoy driving and living with — true to the motto: lifestyle meets function and fun. Through our collaboration with Vagabund on these two vehicles, we were able to once again showcase our attention to detail and technical craftsmanship in a striking way.” 

Vehicle as a sound system 

Aside from the eye-catching design of the concept vehicles, they are fitted with a specially developed sound system, specifically for outdoor sound projection — with community events in mind. 

These are built on the side windows with a newly developed loudspeaker housing made from cast polymer granite, a material that Mini said offers ideal conditions for precise and unadulterated sound reproduction. 

Further, tweeters and mid-range speakers are integrated into the bodywork, while additional subwoofers in the rear deliver a powerful punch when the tailgate is opened. 

On the opposite side of the vehicle is an iconic Walkman integrated into a three-dimensional-printed housing — a special detail. This creates a deliberate counterpoint to the open external sound system: a personal, decelerated feeling. 

Each vehicle functions as an independent sound system; however, together, both Mini Countryman show cars form a mobile stage, creating an immersive audio experience.

“A long-standing tradition and core value of the Mini brand is individual vehicle customization. Together with Vagabund, Mini continues this approach and demonstrates how a creative reinterpretation of the Mini Countryman — inspired by festival culture and music — can be brought to life through an engaged community,” Mini Head Jean‑Philippe Parain was quoted as saying. 

‘The Skeg’ makes Chinese debut

Aside from the Vagabund projects, Mini will also debut the JCW X Deus “The Skeg” in China. 

The car features a radically weight-reduced, semi-transparent fibreglass body and functional, surf-inspired accessories. The one-off captures a lifestyle defined by freedom, movement, and personal expression.

Mini at Auto China 2026 

In total, Mini will present some 14 vehicles at the upcoming Auto China 2026. 

On top of the collaborative projects, the company will also showcase a selection of special editions and exclusive paint finishes to demonstrate different ways Mini can be interpreted and personalized. 

The company will bring a mix of editions, collaborations, one-offs, and production models to make “customization” a core element of the brand’s identity. 

Mini, the United Kingdom-headquartered carmaker, views its vehicles as personal companions — open to individual design, creative ideas, and the unique signature of their owners. 

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Mini PH Brings in all-electric Cooper, Countryman

Mini PH expands local lineup with new Cooper 5-Door

Mini PH officially launches all-new Aceman EV

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