Having reflected further on this topic as I drove to work this morning, it dawned on me that I have never, ever been happier with any car than my Cooper Cabrio. It may not be as fast as a Cooper S, or as economical as a Diesel, and I'm sure it could be improved. However, for me, right now, this is my dream car come true.
So, maybe the problem for BMW MINI is this: right now there isn't a compelling case for me to replace MINERVA! (I admit, a long time ago I placed an order for the first R56-based cabrio to be delivered to Luxembourg, but since I am still totally enjoying my current car, I begin to wonder why I should change, even if she will be approaching 5 years old next year)
So, my loyalty to MINI is assured, but this does not mean I have to buy a new model every 2-3 years simply to keep up with the latest trim or colour scheme. Maybe this is part of the problem?
So what next for BMW MINI? Considering the growing success of the Peugeot 107/Citroen C1/Toyota Aygo as a tiny but practical, fun and highly economical 4 door car, plus the definite threat from the Fiat 500, maybe what is needed is a new MINI that goes further back to the Issigonis roots, by being smaller and more economical and cheaper to run? Problem is, such a car would proably have to be built outside UK to keep the costs down and maintain affordability......
Good luck, BMW MINI - I really, really hope you get it right!
Ian |