MINI To Eventually Expand Lineup To 8 To 10 Models - What Should They Keep Or Kick To The Curb?

Currently, the Mini line-up consists of seven models: the Hardtop, Clubman, Convertible, Countryman, Coupe, Roadster and Paceman. Now the line-up is said to include some new models based on BMW’s UKL front-wheel-drive architecture.

The report says buyers can expect the new Cooper hatchback sometime this year. Next year a convertible and an EV or a hybrid versions will be launched, while a five-door, five-passenger hatchback will be on sale in January 2015, and will all use the new architecture.

The New MINI Cooper Launch

Read Article

MattDarringer - 8/6/2014 3:07:46 PM

0 Boost

Brand dilution at its worst. BMW was dumb as bricks for not adding the Mini brand to BMW dealers as opposed to going with the stand-alone dealer model. The reason Mini needs more models is so sustain the dealers.

carsnyc - 8/6/2014 3:23:44 PM

+1 Boost

Correct
Plus look at the sales charts and there lies your answer

nguyenvuminh - 8/6/2014 3:24:33 PM

+4 Boost

IMHO, the first generation of Mini (from BMW) is the best looking model. All of the models thereafter seem to be so ungainly.

MattDarringer - 8/6/2014 6:48:44 PM

0 Boost

Another problem is that if anyone compares a Cooper S to a GTI, they will discover that the GTI has much more refinement. BMW has not dealt with the torque steer and "dartiness" of the Mini that on a wet road makes it a frightening/dangerous drive. By contrast the VW GTI has virtually no torque steer issues and tracks dead true.

With a Mini capable of going north of $30K and with the Mercedes CLA available at the same price--ditto A3--the Mini has stiff competition because not only do American consumers cross shop BIG TIME on price rather than type of car, BMW/Mini has problems.

One of the Mini's biggest demographic segments are middle-aged women (skew big time divorced) and that demographic segment REALLY does cross shop on price.

Thus, Mini's proliferation of models is a desperate attempt to keep these women happy.

CarCrazedinCali - 8/6/2014 7:13:06 PM

+1 Boost

I think MINI needs the fully re-designed Countryman/Paceman immediately. as

The 5Dr Hardtop should be offered with AWD in JCW guise to compete/play with the likes of the fun Golf R.

I would love to also see the next AWD Clubman sooner than planned to have a fun AND practical offering for true wagon lovers.

As for the Coupe/Roadsters, they should be combined into one hard top Roadster option and be a driver focused (like the JCW) only type offering.

Whatever they end up doing, I mostly wish for higher performance levels in these heated segments. They still do a damn good job at giving their customers a balanced blend of fun, fuel economy, safety and practicality.