The future of MINI...?

[potts]

I realise BMW has plans to produce the MINI in several other guises - cabriolet, roadster, pick-up, moke etc... I think this is great. However, I can't help feeling a little scared that they might start bringing out new models every few years down the line. i.e. re-designs of the basic body.

Part of the Mini's uniqueness and character were due to it's ability to stand the test of time, I'd hate to see the MINI go the way of most models - where a new one is produced every 3 to 7 years.
(As for the 'cool' factor, I believe the MINI has already stolen most of this from the Mini (sorry Mini owners), that's just how the MINI & Mini fit in with my view of the world. In this respect maybe I'm a fashion victim, but I'm sure owners of the Mini were once).

BMW has done good with this car, the Mini needed dragging into the 21st century for many reasons - I think safety was the main one. You could probably argue they could do good again - they probably will one day. However, when sales start to fall, will the BMW board have the courage to leave the car alone, at least for a while? e.g. instead of creating a new MINI, re-launch it in a new way. Don't get me wrong, I'm certainly not saying it should be 42 years before they change it, but there's no reason why this great car can't build the respect of a couple of generations.

I know this talk is silly, especially when the MINI has only just come out. All I want is for it to have the chance to accrue some of that Mini uniqueness.

Sorry for the long rant.

[pbeirne]

Someone, in some other thread, made mention of the other marques that BMW owns, and the need for freshness in the many Mini dealerships that have been built. There might be a resurrection of some other brands to be sold through the mini dealerships. There will be some pressure from the Mini dealers to keep the showrooms filled so watch for other brand developments?

[Red & White Cooper 2]

Quote:

(As for the 'cool' factor, I believe the MINI has already stolen most of this from the Mini (sorry Mini owners), that's just how the MINI & Mini fit in with my view of the world.

Read today in Autocar that used values of the original Mini are on the up due to the success of the new Mini.

It is quite possible for both to co-exist, and interest in one increases interest in the other. Incidentally I've had more "greetings" (flashed lights etc.) from original Mini owners than new Mini owners.

[Paul]

I have heard through conversations that the MINI design team are arguing strongly for the MINI to be like the 911.

The basic shape is established, and there is no need to radically change it, rather slowly evolve it step by step to keep it 'fresh', without changing the design principle.

Sure, variants are benig worked on, but the 3 door to me has got the be THE MINI of the future, and the one that all the others will use as the base.

[smartbomb]

MINI can be like the 911, no need for replacements, just subtle mods and new body styles. The first public viewing of the MINI was back in 1997 and 5 years on it looks amazingly fresh.
I believe that the shape can continue as it is unlike any other car, and probably unlikely to date too quickly....