At the end of the 1960's, Alec Issigonis' thoughts turned towards a Mini replacement. His objective was to produce a small car with room for four adults and luggage at price 5% below the current Mini price.

The outcome was a squarer, two-door, 'hatchback' design having a new '9X' 850cc engine and transmission, also designed by Issigonis, with an improved specification and a reduction in servicing requirements.

The shape offered increased passenger and luggage space over the Mini but did not pass the concept stage with British Leyland's management. This was a missed opportunity for BL; FIAT, Renault and Volkswagen introduced their own hatchback cars only a few years after Issigonis' proposal.