Having recently become obsessed with MINI's after a series of events, I have planned to order one in early 2007 (since I'm only a college student). However, now that I know there will be a new version coming out around that time period...I'm faced with a dilemma. I love the look of the current MINI and the idea of the headlights moving further out with a less defined bonnet have me concerned.

Since I really want to have my MINI special ordered for the full experience, do you think I'd have a chance in early 2007 to determine whether or not I like the new design and still be able to order the "old" version if I so choose?

The last thing I want is to be stuck with having to buy a used MINI if I don't like the current MY.

EDIT: After reading the motoringfile.com report more in-depth, I've begun to think that the new body style might be a nice change (apparently the clam-shell bonnet won't change) and I'm actually kind of excited to see what the final product will look like.

It depends how soon we get shots of the officially finished next MINI vs. its production start time. It might be a few months, it might be a few weeks. I would take a bet that you will be able to see the next MINI before your dealer stops taking orders on MY2006. However, if you are getting one in early 2007, then you will more than likely be getting the next MINI. I would assume that MY2006 will end in the fall/winter of 2006.

Even in the US? I would almost think that it might be released as a 2007.5 version.

Production is scheduled to start early Sept 2006 for all models (not Cabrio), and I believe all markets, but I don't have 100% solid information on this, but from several sources that's what I've got.

No doubt we'll know what it looks like BEFORE it's out. Probably before most dealers.

;)

Yes, there'll be more 'finished' spyshots appear MONTHS before it's launched. It's always te case. Auto Express (UK weekly) are showing a very nearly production finished facelift Vauxhall/Opel Vectra this week. It's not even due to hit a motor show until September, let alone go on sale!

Production is scheduled to start early Sept 2006 for all models (not Cabrio), and I believe all markets, but I don't have 100% solid information on this, but from several sources that's what I've got.
(nor Clubman, nor Roadster) ;) :D

I expect that due to the change in platform and production line, they will not produce both models in parallel. Therefore, with new model SOP in September and release a few months after, any old models that you get after seeing the new one will be pre-build and therefore not configurable to you individual wishes. Also, with this product, I wouldn't expect them to pre-build masses of 'old' cars for other markets - it goes against the configurable concept of the car?

Although there are siginificant changes, the new model will still retain its loyalty to the current shape and layout - but will be new and improved - I would therefore go for the new one in 2007, in the spec. that I want.

Thanks for all your input everyone. Almost every time a new MY is released in most cars, it takes me a while to get used to it, but I almost always do. I figure that when it comes time for me to buy mine, if I really don't like the current model...I can always buy used. Thanks again.