| BMW recently invited members of the local press to the Experience Music Project in Seattle to announce that the Mini will be returning to the U.S. in March of 2002. The Mini was one of Europe’s most popular cars ever, with a 44-year history, and developed a loyal following in the U.S during the brief time it was imported during the 1960s. BMW acquired the rights to the Mini when it purchased Rover a couple of years ago.
BMW will grant approximately 70 of its 345 U.S. dealers a Mini franchise, with the understanding it will operate as a stand-alone dealership.
At 13 feet long, 5.6 feet wide and 4.6 feet high, the new Mini is a bit bigger than the car it replaces. It will be available in 14 colors, with standard 15-inch or optional 16 and 17-inch alloy wheels available. Inside, there are airbags not only in the front for both driver and passenger, but also in the side of the seats and as curtains to protect from head injuries. This type of airbag first became a standard feature of BMWs in 1995. |
