The loveable MINI reached a milestone this week: the very last of the current generation MINI rolled off MINI's Plant Oxford production line in the UK, marking another chapter in the extraordinary success story for BMW. Over one million current generation MINIs have been built there since 2006. Now, production of the new MINI Hatch is already underway.
MINI accounts for 14 per cent of all cars built in the UK last year, with a further 14 per cent of those exported across the globe. That no doubt contributes handsomely to BMW's bottom line and global sales growth. Since 2001, the hi-tech plant in Oxford has built over 2.4 million vehicles.
The current generation MINI was launched in 2006. With it came notable improvements over the first iteration. These included the introduction of turbocharged engines, which were a big hit with MINI fans. Suspension enhancements also improved driving dynamics. And then there's what MINI refers to as MINIMALISM, which essentially are technologies to improve economy and performance - aka BMW's EfficientDynamics. Entertainment was never far away, either. MINI Connected appeared, to for infotainment and connectivity.
Anything else?
If you fancy one of the new models, best get saving. Spring 2014 sees the launch of the new generation MINI, which is new from the ground up. Significant improvements in technology, steering, efficiency and power delivery, driving dynamics and quality are promised. Plus, the ever popular options for personalisation to suit individual tastes.