Auto news and reviews from Car Buyer's Notebook.com: MINI Archives

August 13, 2008

MINI in the Olympic Spirit

Munich/Beijing -- Just in time for the biggest sporting event of the year, the Olympic Games in the Chinese capital of Beijing, MINI is on top sporting form too - and is making a great start in Beijing!

A very special MINI vehicle is providing passengers with a fantastic, unforgettable driving experience of a most unusual type. Locals and visitors to the games alike can move smoothly through the busy traffic in the Asian capital in a MINI Rickshaw made specially for Beijing - a typical MINI experience.

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August 11, 2008

Mini celebrates a droptop milestone

Munich -- Style icon, global player, "value master" and now already a classic. Now that around 164,000 units have been produced, the MINI Convertible of the current generation has reached the end of its production period. As planned, the MINI plant in Oxford ceased production of the open-top four-seater.

The final specimen - a MINI Cooper S Convertible Sidewalk painted in metallic White Silver has been sold to a MINI fan in the USA.

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BMW supportts Automotive Youth Education

Woodcliff Lake, NJ -- Passaic County Technical Institute students got a glimpse of their future with the donation of a BMW 745i which will be used as a state of the art automotive teaching tool.

The students are members of Automotive Youth Educational Systems (AYES), a nationwide partnership among automotive manufacturers, participating dealers, and selected high/prep schools.

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BMW global sales up 2.2% in July

Munich -- The BMW Group increased its sales volume in July of this year. In total, 125,812 BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce brand cars were delivered to customers.

This represents an increase of 2.2% compared to the same month last year (123,089 units). For the period to the end of July, sales rose by 4.4% to reach 890,699 units (January - July 2007: 853,142 units).

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August 8, 2008

MINI USA Asks: 'What's Your Carfun Footprint?'

WOODCLIFF LAKE, N.J. -- "What's Your Carfun Footprint?" A new marketing campaign from MINI USA and its agency Butler Shine Stern & Partners (BSSP) poses this very question and highlights that driver's don't have to sacrifice fun for fuel efficiency.

MINI USA defines Carfun Footprint as: "A measurement of how much fun your car is versus how much impact it has on the environment."

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August 2, 2008

BMW Group Reports July Sales Up 2.2%

WOODCLIFF LAKE, N.J. -- The BMW Group in the U.S. (BMW and MINI combined) reported July sales of 28,977 vehicles, an increase of 2.2 percent over the 28,364 vehicles sold in July 2007.

The BMW Group also reported its year-to-date sales volume of 186,890 vehicles, down 3.0 percent compared to 192,702 vehicles in the same period of 2007.

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July 30, 2008

MINI Partners with Carfax to Enhance Certified Pre-Owned Program

CENTREVILLE, Va. -- Carfax today announced that MINI USA has chosen Carfax as the preferred provider of vehicle history information for the MINI NEXT Certified Pre-Owned program.

Starting August 1, all MINI NEXT dealers will be required to run a Carfax Vehicle History Report as part of the extensive certification process. Anyone interested in purchasing a MINI NEXT vehicle receives the full Carfax Report for free.

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July 25, 2008

BMW Appoints New Executive Vice President of Operations

WOODCLIFF LAKE, N.J. -- BMW of North America, LLC, the U.S. division of the German manufacturer of premium vehicles and motorcycles, today announced the appointment of Peter Miles to the position of Executive Vice President of Operations, effective September 1st, 2008. Miles replaces Howard Mosher who retired earlier this year.

In this function Miles will report to Jim O'Donnell, President of BMW of North America, LLC, Miles, 47, will be responsible for all BMW sales operations and dealer relations within the U.S.

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July 13, 2008

BMW to Test Electric-Powered Minis

BMW has said it will outfit ``several hundred'' Mini cars with electric motors to test the technology for future models.

``This step will allow the BMW Group to gain an initial knowledge of how mobility can be achieved efficiently using purely electrically powered vehicles,'' Norbert Reithofer, chief executive officer of the Munich-based carmaker, said today in a statement.

BMW has put more effort into researching hydrogen-combustion engines, rather than electric motors because of electric-powered vehicles' limited range and performance. The test is scheduled to last 12 to 18 months and comes as other carmakers are readying vehicles for production.

July 8, 2008

BMW Global Sales up 4.7%

Munich -- The BMW Group increased sales of its BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce brands by 4.7% in the period from January through June to reach a total of 764,874 automobiles (prev.yr.: 730,285).

This made the first half-year of 2008 the most successful in the history of the BMW Group in terms of sales. Nevertheless, the company was not entirely able to avoid the difficult economic trends in important individual markets such as the USA and Japan. As such, global sales slipped 2.8% in the month of June to 146,138 units (prev.yr. 150,308).

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July 2, 2008

BMW Group Reports June Sales down 11% in June

WOODCLIFF LAKE, N.J. -- The BMW Group in the U.S. (BMW and MINI combined) today reported June vehicle sales of 26,155, a decline of 11 percent from the 29,394 vehicles sold in the same month of 2007.

For the first six months of 2008, BMW Group sales are down 3.9 percent to 157,913 vehicles versus the 164,338 sold in the first half of 2007.

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June 8, 2008

BMW global sales up 3.9% in May

Munich -- The BMW Group increased its automobile sales once again in May. 133,496 BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce vehicles were delivered to customers (prev.yr.: 128,434) in the month under review.

This represents a gain of 3.9%. For the year to May, sales climbed 6.7% to reach a total of 618,731 vehicles (prev.yr.: 579,745). This is the first time in the company's history that more than 600,000 vehicles have already been sold by the end of May.

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June 3, 2008

BMW Group Reports May Sales Up 3.1%

WOODCLIFF LAKE, N.J. -- The BMW Group in the U.S. (BMW and MINI combined) today reported May vehicle sales of 31,781, an increase of 3.1 percent from the 30,819 vehicles sold in the same month of 2007.

For the first five months of 2008, BMW Group sales are down 2.4 percent, to 131,758 vehicles versus the 134,944 sold January through May of 2007.

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June 2, 2008

Mini Takes the States Concert Headliners

Mini, the iconic British go-kart-and-have-fun brand, is hosting four weekend festivals in U.S. cities this summer, with meet and greet events for Mini owners, as well as test drive opportunities for wannabes.

In addition, they've hired some pretty famed musical acts to entertain the masses in each city, with tickets costing $20 in advance or $30 at the gate. More info here, dates and acts for each city after the jump.

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May 17, 2008

BMW donates 1 million yuan to China Earthquake Relief

Munich/Beijing -- The powerful earthquake which hit Sichuan Province with a magnitude of 7.8 caused severe damage in the area and BMW China and BMW Brilliance have responded with prompt action.

BMW donated RMB [yuan] 1,000,000 to the Red Cross Society of China for the eathquake disaster relief and assigned 3 units of BMW X3 for the rescue team to help disaster relief. At the same time, BMW appealed to all BMW dealers and customers to provide their support as much as possible to join forces in times of hardship.

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May 16, 2008

BMW at the 61st Cannes Film Festival

Cannes/Munich -- May 15 marks the start of the 61st International Film Festival in the eternally glamorous town of Cannes on the coast of southern France. The BMW Group is right in the middle of things, a competent partner for the German, European and global film industry.

The Munich-based company has a long tradition of cooperation with the film industry: alongside classic product placements, the BMW Group has also consistently supported the rise of young film talent both in Germany and world wide.

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May 14, 2008

Passport BMW opens new dealership facility

MARLOW HEIGHTS, Md. -- Passport BMW, founded in 1991, will open their doors to a brand new state-of-the-art facility on May 14, 2008.

Jack Johnson, County Executive, Prince George's County; Peter Brandt, Market Manager, Eastern Region, BMW North America; and Everett Hellmuth, President, Passport BMW will all be on hand to celebrate the opening of this luxury dealership in Prince George's County.

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May 12, 2008

2008 Fuel Economy Guide Available for Download

The EPA has issued a comprehensive PDF guide to fuel economy of all 2008 vehicles, which you can download by right-clicking here.

In today's gas market, buyers are more sensitive than ever about buying cars that get good mileage, and more important, they want the government ratings to be as accurate as possible -- nobody wants to buy a vehicle that gets 10% worse mileage in the real world than the sticker rating.

To address this situation, the EPA has started using an updated test to assign more accurate MPG ratings to new vehicles, and you can learn about that by watching the video in this post.

May 8, 2008

BMW Group posts 12.5% increase in global April sales

Munich -- The BMW Group once again continued its upward sales trend for all three car brands in April. Overall, in a month-on-month comparison, the company recorded a 12.5% increase in the number of vehicles delivered to reach a total of 133,205 (prev.yr.: 118,378).

For the year to April, 485,155 BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce vehicles have been sold. This is an increase of 7.5% (prev.yr.: 451,311) compared with the same period in 2007.

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May 6, 2008

Volkswagen Rabbit Ranked Best in Test of Affordable Hatchbacks

YONKERS, N.Y. -- The Volkswagen Rabbit emerged as Consumer Reports' top-rated affordable hatchback following tests of six vehicles for the June issue. The Rabbit outpointed CR's previously top-rated hatchback, the Mazda3.

"With agile handling and a versatile, well-finished interior, the Rabbit feels solid and is a pleasant car to drive," said David Champion, senior director of Consumer Reports' Auto Test Center in East Haddam, Connecticut. "The Rabbit has commendable fit and finish, a versatile interior, and agile handling."

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May 2, 2008

BMW Group Reports April Sales up 9.6%

WOODCLIFF LAKE, N.J. -- The BMW Group in the U.S. (BMW and MINI combined) today reported April vehicle sales of 31,448, an increase of 9.6 percent from the 28,692 vehicles sold in the same month of 2007.

For the first four months of 2008, BMW Group sales are still down 4.0 percent, to 99,977 vehicles versus the 104,125 sold January through April of 2007.

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April 30, 2008

BMW Bank of North America makes three executive appointments

Woodcliff Lake, NJ - April 29, 2008... BMW Bank of North America, LLC has announced three new executive appointments at the BMW Bank of North America, based in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Ken Petersen has been appointed Chairman of the BMW Bank of North America, where he will act as chair of the Board of Directors and will be responsible for providing oversight of Bank management from a regulatory perspective.

Petersen will also be responsible for managing and maintaining the Bank's external relationships.

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April 22, 2008

BMW Announces Executive Management Appointments

WOODCLIFF LAKE, N.J. -- BMW announces today the following four executive management appointments:

Tom Purves has been appointed to the position of Chief Executive Officer of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Limited. In this capacity he is responsible for the overall global Rolls-Royce business, including production, sales and marketing.

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April 7, 2008

BMW Group Posts Record Global Sales

Munich -- The BMW Group increased its sales in the first quarter of 2008 by 5.7% to 351,787 automobiles (prev.yr.: 332,933). Deliveries of BMW brand cars to customers in the first three months rose by 2.7% to 293,550 vehicles (prev.yr.: 285,840).

MINI recorded a significant increase of 23.6% to 58,054 units (prev.yr.: 46,980). Rolls-Royce Motor Cars handed 183 automobiles over to customers in the first quarter (prev.yr.: 113/+61.9%).

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April 1, 2008

BMW Group Reports March Sales down 5.4%

WOODCLIFF LAKE, N.J. -- The BMW Group in the U.S. (BMW and MINI combined) today reported March vehicle sales of 27,404, down 5.4 percent from the 28,980 vehicles sold in the same month of 2007. For the first quarter of 2008, BMW Group sales are down 9.2 percent, to 68,529 vehicles versus the 75,433 sold in the first three months of 2007.

The results reflect BMW Group's expectations for the month. As planned and already communicated, BMW of North America expects a stronger increase in sales in the second half of the year.

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March 31, 2008

MINI Sponsors NY Art Exhibit

New York -- After the great success of the launch of the new Manhattan Art Space "Ludlow 38" the next exhibition is on it's way.

"THE REAL WORLD", an exhibition of works by Andreas Neumeister, Sean Snyder and Wolfgang Tillmans will be on view from March 30 - May 4, 2008 at "Ludlow 38". MINI is the proud sponsor of this downtown satellite space for innovative contemporary art.

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March 28, 2008

2008 MINI Cooper Clubman -- When Two Doors Just Won't Do

MINI has slightly tweaked their winning formula for the Cooper in a most unexpected, yet kid of obvious way -- by adding a third, "swing-out" door on the passenger side.

The resulting model, dubbed the Clubman is 9 1/2 inches longer than the usual Cooper, and comes in 3 models, the base Cooper Clubman, a Cooper S edition and a John Cooper Works Edition.

The base Cooper Clubman has a 118 horsepower engine and starts at $20,600; the Cooper S Clubman's 172 hp engine starts at $24,100 and the JC Works Edition that has a 208 hp engine comes in at a base price of $31,450.

BMW Owners Get a Chance to Show Their Bling in Essen

Munich/Essen -- BMW Group Mobile Tradition stands on the threshold of an eventful year. In June the BMW Museum in Munich will reopen its doors; the legendary BMW M1 sports car celebrates its 30th anniversary this year; and BMW Group Mobile Tradition models will again be lining up at a wide range of major events.

As ever, Mobile Tradition will be attending the traditional start of the classic calendar - Techno Classica, held from 26th to 30th March 2008. At this, the world's largest classic car show, visitors to Hall 12 will once again find an array of classic models sporting the BMW and MINI badges.

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March 21, 2008

John Cooper Works the NY Auto Show

Woodcliff Lake, NJ -- MINI USA announced today the debut of two all new performance models at the 2008 New York International Auto Show.

Following their successful World Premier in Geneva, the MINI John Cooper Works hardtop and the MINI John Cooper Works Clubman are showcased at MINI's display and represent the first new models from the recently integrated John Cooper Works Brand.

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March 19, 2008

MINI Announces Details of Cross-Country Rally

Woodcliff Lake, NJ -- Two years ago, MINI Takes the States (MTTS) rambled coast-to-coast with thousands of MINI owners for a legendary cross-country event.

How to top that? For the highly anticipated encore coming this summer, members of the MINI community weighed in to set the direction for MINI Takes the States 2008.

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March 18, 2008

BMW expects all-time high sales volume levels for three brands

Munich -- The BMW Group intends to continue its successful business performance in the current year.

"We are aiming towards a current year profit before tax -adjusted for the exceptional gain on the settlement of exchangeable bond on shares in the British aero engine manufacturer, Rolls-Royce, in 2007 - that is higher than in the previous year", said Norbert Reithofer, the Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG at the BMW Group Annual Accounts Press Conference in Munich on Tuesday.

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Corvette Still #1 Most Requested Vehicles to Lease

CINCINNATI -- Automobile Consumer Services, Inc. (ACS), has released a list of the top 10 most requested vehicles from its popular auto leasing website www.LeaseCompare.com.

Information was collected during the second half of 2007 from more than two million lease quote requests.

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March 14, 2008

BMW posts higher global profit

Munich -- As well as achieving new sales volume and revenues records in 2007, the BMW Group also achieved its earnings target for the year, reflecting the con-tinued success of its business strategy.

Profit before tax, at euro 3,873 million (2006: euro 4,124 million), was 6.1% down on the record level achieved in the previous year.

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March 7, 2008

BMW Global Sales Rise 9% in February

Munich -- In February, BMW Group continued to gain momentum strongly again, as planned. In the month under review, the number of automobiles delivered rose by 9.0% to 105,994 (prev.yr.: 97,256).

For the year to the end of February, 198,628 BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce brand vehicles were sold (prev.yr.: 191,357). This corresponds to a growth rate of 3.8% in comparison with the same period last year.

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March 6, 2008

BMW named one of America's most admired companies

Woodcliff Lake, NJ -- FORTUNE Magazine announced that BMW Group is one of "America's Most Admired Companies".

The study ranks BMW Group no. 1 in its industry for the second time in a row. For the first time BMW Group also made it - as the only European company - into the overall top 20 list. More than 600 companies were surveyed.

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March 3, 2008

BMW Group Reports February Sales Down 1.8%

WOODCLIFF LAKE, N.J. -- The BMW Group in the U.S. (BMW and MINI combined) today reported February vehicle sales of 24,190, slightly down by 1.8 percent from the 24,642 vehicles sold in the same month of 2007.

Year-to-date, BMW Group sales are down 11.5 percent, to 41,125 vehicles versus the 46,453 sold in the first two months of 2007.

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March 1, 2008

MINI Cooper Gets High Scores in Crash Tests

Woodcliff Lake, NJ -- The second generation MINI Cooper hardtop earned impressive scores for front and side impact and roll-over testing in the latest National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA) New Car Assessment Program (NCAP) testing.

In the NCAP side impact testing, the 2008 MINI Cooper received a 5-Star rating for front seat occupant side-impact protection - the highest rating issued by NHTSA. In the same test the MINI Cooper received a 4-Star rating for rear seat occupants.

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February 26, 2008

MINI Launches John Cooper Works Editions

Munich -- A big name, a long tradition, outstanding performance, figures and an incomparable driving experience: the MINI John Cooper Works arouses motor racing passion which goes beyond the race track.

In August 2008 the new model - produced at the British MINI plant in Oxford - will be coming to Germany along with the MINI John Cooper Works Clubman.

With their world premiere at the International Automobile Salon in Geneva (March 6th–16th 2008), these versions are the first two models to be launched by MINI under the brand MINI John Cooper Works.

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February 20, 2008

Ad Campaign Heralds Arrival of MINI Clubman

WOODCLIFF LAKE, N.J. -- MINI zigged when it launched the hardtop model in 2002 and zagged with the convertible in 2004. So what does MINI do when it's already zigged and zagged?

Easy, MINI zugs with the arrival of the all-new 2008 MINI Clubman. That's the core concept behind the "ZIG, ZAG, ZUG" advertising launch campaign, developed by Sausalito, California-based advertising agency Butler, Shine, Stern & Partners (BSSP), that ushers in the newest addition to the MINI model line.

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February 8, 2008

Jim O'Donnell Named President of BMW North America

Woodcliff Lake, NJ -- BMW Group has announced that Jim O'Donnell will join BMW of North America's executive management team as President of BMW of North America, LLC (BMW NA) starting April 1, 2008. He will also assume Howard Mosher's role as Vice President Operations. Howard Mosher will retire on March 31.

Jim O'Donnell has been with the BMW Group for 17 years. He currently holds the position of Managing Director of BMW (UK) Ltd. Prior to that he worked as Sales and Marketing Director of BMW South Africa and Sales Director of BMW (UK) Ltd.

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BMW Groups Posts Slight Decline in Global January Sales

Munich -- The BMW Group started the new year with a slight decrease in sales of 1.6%. In January, 92,629 BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce brand vehicles were delivered to customers (prev.yr.: 94,101).

The BMW brand reported 77,156 sales in January, which, in a monthly comparison, was 4.1% below the level of the same month last year (80,458). The market launch of the BMW 1 Series Cabrio and BMW X6 is coming up. These new models, amongst other factors, will give a boost to sales developments over the next few months.

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February 4, 2008

BMW Group sales down 22% in January

WOODCLIFF LAKE, N.J. -- The BMW Group in the U.S. (BMW and MINI combined) today reported January vehicle sales of 16,935, down 22.4 percent as expected from the 21,811 vehicles sold in the same month of 2007.

Sales were impacted by lower than normal inventory levels due to a very strong retail performance in December and high demand for all-wheel drive models.

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February 2, 2008

Current Auto Rebates Has All the Updated Rebates!

With auto sales down 4.3% in January 2008, many automakers are increasing the rebate and incentive offers they have on the hoods of their vehicles.

Yet keeping track of all the rebate programs can be difficult work, which is why we began publishing Current Auto Rebates, the Internet's first document that lists every rebate program for every vehicle for same in the United States.

This 13-page PDF makes it easy for you to look up rebates on any model you're interested in, and even allows you to contact your local dealer who will give you a free price quote on the ride of your choice.

Since rebate programs can change several times per month, you may want to sign up for free updates to the publication -- when we update the document you'll get an email from us letting you know a refreshed version is available for you to download.

And if someone you know is currently shopping for a new vehicle, you may want to download a copy and email it to them -- they'll thank you for doing so!

BMW Sets Global Revenue Record in 2007

Munich -- The BMW Group has achieved a new sales revenue record in 2007. Compared to the previous year, group revenues rose by 14.3% to euro 56,018 million (2006: euro 48,999 million). Revenues of the Automobiles segment went up by 12.7% to euro 53,818 million (2006: euro 47,767 million).

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January 30, 2008

With Home Prices Dropping, Car Prices Are Sure to Follow

It's accepted wisdom now that overall auto sales will drop in 2008. This is seen as a function of the housing bust, during which as much as 20% of new car purchases were funded by residential real estate profit, home equity cashouts and the general euphoria in real estate related industries.

Now that home prices are dropping -- and will continue to do so until they fall in line with median income -- we believe the average new vehicle transaction price will drop as well. If houses can fall 10%-30% in value, why not cars?

In November we ran a story from Comerica Bank stating the average transaction price of a new vehicle was $29,024. Our projection is this number will fall below $25,000, perhaps in 2009 if not this year, for several reasons:

1. Less money to spend. The option of taking cash out of a home to finance a new purchase is gone. The psychology of spending "free money" to buy a luxe ride will give way to folks actually having to make the payment out of their own pocket. And with many people paying even more for housing due to adjustable rates, they will choose cheaper rides.

2. Gas prices. While $3 a gallon gas isn't as draconian as five bucks, it will have an effect over time. People are already choosing more efficient crossovers and smaller SUVs over the big buses, and V8s are going out of favor. Look for more people to choose V6s in cars and for four-cylinders to pick up in popularity.

3. Negative equity. A greater percentage of folks are upside down in their cars, and have been rolling their balances into new loan agreements. To catch up, their new purchases will have to be cheaper and it's going to take years to eat away at the balance.

4. New frugality. In a tough economy, the value of money becomes more dear. People will start thinking twice about how much money they spend. They will choose cheaper cars, perhaps with more options, but the luxe-marques are in for a rough ride.

5. New wage structures. The Detroit car companies have made big headlines with their new labor deals, that allow them to replace higher paid union workers with new hires at a lower wage scale. The higher wages translated into higher sticker prices; the lower wages will allow for slimmer price hikes and even reductions.

6. Battle for fewer consumers. Don't let the tough talk fool you. As fewer cars are sold throughout 2008, the rebate war will kick into full swing -- and spiffs will help bring down the average transaction price.

This last reason is why we launched Current Auto Rebates, a site that publishes all the rebates for every model in a single PDF file, to make bargain hunting that much easier.

January 23, 2008

Harness the power of free price quotes!

Many of you have seen the link to get a free dealer price quote on our pages, as well as in our Current Auto Rebates report.

The free price quote is one of the best tools for savvy vehicle shoppers -- it's convenient, and there is absolutely no obligation to buy anything. Here are some of the other advantages:

-- You are essentially putting a bid out to local new vehicle dealers to compete for your business. In many cases, several dealers will respond to your price quote request. Armed with your knowledge of MSRP and rebates, you can then have dealers compete on price for your car buying dollars!

-- You can fill out a free price quote for each vehicle you are cross-shopping.

-- Schedule your test drive appointments. Just think, you know longer have to suffer the indignity of walking into a dealership and either being ignored or descended upon like a piece of fresh meat.

-- The dealership will have the vehicle you are interested in ready and waiting [if they are pros, which many are nowadays, given the competition of the Internet.]

-- You will be doing 90% of the work that goes into buying a new vehicle from the convenience of your own computer -- how civilized is that!

Get your free dealer price quote today!

Current Auto Rebates -- What You Don't Know Could Cost You Thousands of Dollars

Want to see all the rebates on every make and model vehicle for sale in the United States?

Current Auto Rebates has just launched a valuable 13-page PDF report that is the first of its kind -- listing all rebates for all vehicles. What you don't know about current auto rebates could cost you thousands of dollars!

Aren't you tired of clicking through page after page on web sites to find the information you need? This report has everything you need in one convenient, easy-to-use package.

Check out CurrentAutoRebates.com and get your free PDF report today!

John Cooper Works continues MINI success story

Munich -- The roots shared by the names MINI and John Cooper Works reach back almost 50 years. Now a new chapter of their success story has been opened.

Under the roof of MINI the entire product range designed for the driver with a specifically sporting ambition will bear the John Cooper Works label. Consequently, John Cooper Works will in future become an integral part of the MINI brand and represent more than ever before the epitome of ultimate driving fun for all MINI enthusiasts.

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January 12, 2008

Join the [MINI] Club, Man!

New Member of MINI Family Offers Flexibility, Fun and Performance

Woodcliff Lake, NJ -- The 2008 MINI Clubman, an all-new addition to the MINI model line, is featured at the 2008 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, MI.

With a little more room in the back and an innovative door configuration, the eagerly anticipated MINI Clubman defies convention in its concept and style.

Continue reading "Join the [MINI] Club, Man!"

January 10, 2008

BMW Increases Global Sales by 9.2% in 2007

Munich -- The BMW Group continued its successful course last year, reaching its best sales levels for all three automobile brands. Worldwide, 1,500,678 vehicles were delivered to customers (prev.yr.: 1,373,970), which corresponds to a 9.2% growth in sales.

For the BMW brand, sales reached 1,276,793 vehicles, outstripping the previous year's level (1,185,088) by 7.7%. MINI also recorded a robust rise - in comparison with the previous year (188,077), the brand increased by 18.5% to 222,875 units sold to customers.

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January 9, 2008

BMW posts 16 years of rising U.S. sales

Woodcliff Lake, NJ -- The BMW Group in the U.S. (BMW and MINI combined) today reported its best-ever annual sales for both its brands of 335,840 vehicles, an increase of 7.1 percent over the 313,603 vehicles sold in 2006.

December sales for both brands of 33,761 were up 1 percent over the 33,417 vehicles reported in the last month of 2006.

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January 8, 2008

Mazda3, MINI Cooper and Hyundai Santa Fe Named Most Delightful Vehicles of 2007

SAN DIEGO -- “Driver’s desires, needs and attribute priorities are called the customer’s vehicle DNA,” according to Alexander Edwards, Strategic Vision President of Automotive. “When you understand the emotional payoff delivered by each vehicle attribute measured against the customer’s vehicle DNA, you can truly know what sets leaders apart from the rest. These vehicles are Customer Delight leaders and build brand equity, increase customer advocacy and indicate future loyalty and retention.”

Continue reading "Mazda3, MINI Cooper and Hyundai Santa Fe Named Most Delightful Vehicles of 2007"

January 3, 2008

BMW Group Report 7.1% Increase in 2007 Sales

WOODCLIFF LAKE, N.J. -- The BMW Group in the U.S. (BMW and MINI combined) today reported its best-ever annual sales for both its brands of 335,840 vehicles, an increase of 7.1% over the 313,603 vehicles sold in 2006.

December sales for both brands of 33,761 were up 1% over the 33,417 vehicles reported in the last month of 2006.

Continue reading "BMW Group Report 7.1% Increase in 2007 Sales"

December 13, 2007

MINI USA & RIDEMAKERZ Team up for Toys for Tots

ST. LOUIS -- You can now give this year's coolest new gift to children in need without ever leaving your home or office. MINI USA and RIDEMAKERZ(R) have partnered with Toys for Tots to provide the fastest and easiest way ever to spread holiday cheer.

Simply visit http://www.ridemakerz.com/MINI through December 31 and choose from four different customizable MINI RIDEZ to donate to Toys for Tots. Prices range from $22.00 to $36.00.

Each RIDE comes with a set of custom decals and accessories and will be shipped directly to Toys for Tots distribution centers nationwide. Shipping and handling charges are covered by MINI USA and RIDEMAKERZ.

Continue reading "MINI USA & RIDEMAKERZ Team up for Toys for Tots"

December 11, 2007

Study: BMW Financial Services Ranks Highest in Luxury Lease Satisfaction

WOODCLIFF LAKE, N.J. -- BMW Financial Services of North America, LLC (BMW FS) ranked highest in satisfaction with initial consumer leases for luxury nameplates in the J.D. Power and Associates 2007 Consumer Financing Satisfaction Study released today.

The top ranking in this study marks the first time BMW Financial Services has received the highest ranking in this important segment and reflects a 47 index point increase that takes it from seventh to first place.

Continue reading "Study: BMW Financial Services Ranks Highest in Luxury Lease Satisfaction"

December 8, 2007

BMW Group on track for global sales record in 2007

Munich -- The BMW Group is on track for a new record for sales for 2007 as a whole. Up to the end of November this year, 1,347,998 BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce brand cars were delivered to customers.

Compared with the figures for the same period last year (1,244,778), this is an increase of 103,220 vehicles, or 8.3%. This means that, in the first eleven months of 2007, almost as many vehicles were delivered as in the whole of the previous year (2006 in total: 1,373,926). In November 2007, the company increased its car sales by 13.2% to 129,460 units (prev.yr.: 114,331).

Continue reading "BMW Group on track for global sales record in 2007"

December 6, 2007

MINI SUV to be built in Austria

Munich -- The new MINI Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) will be built by Magna Steyr Fahrzeugtechnik in Graz, Austria. The vehicle concept, devised by MINI Design and BMW Group engineers, has been entrusted to Magna Steyr Fahrzeugtechnik for series development and for later production.

The cooperation with Magna Steyr is an efficient way for BMW Group to ensure the planned profitable growth through new model launches set out in the company's strategic alignment.

Continue reading "MINI SUV to be built in Austria"

December 4, 2007

Japanese Cars Continue to Dominate Car-Owner Satisfaction Survey

South Korean Cars Make First Appearance on CR's Most Satisfying List; Domestic Models Gain Ground in Family and Luxury/Upscale Categories for the First Time in Five Years

YONKERS, N.Y. -- Japanese vehicles continue their domination over domestic and European brands in Consumer Reports' Annual Car Owner Satisfaction Survey. Of the 39 car models that made Consumer Reports' latest Most Satisfying car list, 18 toted Japanese nameplates with 10 of those built by Toyota.

For the fourth straight year, the Toyota Prius hybrid was identified by respondents as the most satisfying of any vehicle, with 92 percent of Prius owners indicating they would definitely buy one again. Following closely, were the BMW 335i coupe/convertible and Porsche Boxster, which drew scores of 91 and 90 respectively.

Continue reading "Japanese Cars Continue to Dominate Car-Owner Satisfaction Survey"

December 3, 2007

BMW, MINI Report 4.2% Increase in November Sales

WOODCLIFF LAKE, N.J. -- The BMW Group in the U.S. (BMW and MINI combined) reported November sales of 26,985 vehicles, an increase of 4.2 percent over the 25,889 vehicles sold in November 2006.

The BMW Group also increased its year-to-date sales volume to 302,079 vehicles, up 7.8 percent, compared to 280,186 vehicles in the same period of 2006.

Continue reading "BMW, MINI Report 4.2% Increase in November Sales"

December 2, 2007

MINI and RIDEMAKERZ Team Up To Debut Smallest MINI Ever

WOODCLIFF LAKE, N.J. -- MINI USA and RIDEMAKERZ have teamed up to create the smallest MINI ever -- the RIDEMAKERZ MINI -- a 12- inch, completely customizable toy replica of the iconic MINI Cooper S -- and have guaranteed a holiday donation of 2,000 of the new toy MINIs to Toys for Tots -- the companies jointly announced today at an event celebrating the launch of the new MINI RIDE.

Continue reading "MINI and RIDEMAKERZ Team Up To Debut Smallest MINI Ever"

November 30, 2007

"Free" MINI Cooper for every loft buyer at LA's Santee Village

LOS ANGELES -- Promising "a MINI Cooper with every loft," downtown LA's Santee Village is kicking off an innovative promotion to buyers of units at the historical residential development located in the Fashion District.

Anyone who purchases a loft between December 1st and February 3rd will receive a MINI Cooper with a three-year lease, with the lease payments being made by the developer.

Continue reading ""Free" MINI Cooper for every loft buyer at LA's Santee Village"

November 23, 2007

2008 MINI Cooper Convertible -- Always Open for Fun

The MINI Cooper Convertible and MINI Cooper S Convertible bring the fun of open to motoring to the MINI brand. The authentic four-passenger convertibles have been engineered from the ground up to be fun-to-drive cars while offering a high level of safety and practicality.

The design of the MINI Convertible does not compromise appearance, functionality and engineering, and remains honest to the MINI concept of go-kart-like performance with a recognizable “MINI” appearance from every angle.

Continue reading "2008 MINI Cooper Convertible -- Always Open for Fun"

2008 MINI Cooper Clubman and MINI Cooper S Clubman

Stretching the wheelbase a mere nine inches in comparison to the MINI hardtop does virtually nothing to diminish the go-kart-like driving characteristics of the new 2008 MINI Cooper Clubman and MINI Cooper S Clubman, but it significantly enhances interior room and utility as well as driver/passenger comfort and convenience for those who want more of this iconic British brand.

And – in true MINI fashion – mixing the traditional with the modern results in both the car’s unique, but unmistakably MINI appearance and unique ways to access this interior: The tailgate carries forward the twin, outwardly hinged “split-doors” found on the Clubman’s ancestors, while rear-seat passengers ingress and egress is eased through the rear-hinged “Clubdoor” incorporated in the car’s right side.

Continue reading "2008 MINI Cooper Clubman and MINI Cooper S Clubman"

2008 MINI Hardtop -- Still the [Only] One

Go-kart-driving fun, an interior that provides the maximum amount of car in the minimum amount of space and a myriad of personalization possibilities keep the 2008 MINI Cooper and Cooper S on top of the small-car premium segment – some 800,000 units produced since the 2000 introduction of the first generation new MINI.

The body of the latest generation MINI – introduced last year – boasts evolutionary development from the iconic 1959 Classic Mini, while the interior, including styling cues are evocative of the original and contain the latest technological advances found today.

Continue reading "2008 MINI Hardtop -- Still the [Only] One"

November 16, 2007

MINI garners 2008 resale award nods

"Best Resale Value in Convertible Category" and Top 10 Scorer Overall

Los Angeles, CA -- MINI took home two honors in Kelley Blue Book's "2008 Best Resale Value Awards". MINI was awarded a top spot with "Best Resale Value" in the Convertible category. In addition, the MINI Cooper has been named an overall Top 10 in "Best Resale Value".

The MINI Cooper is the only vehicle to consistently be on Kelley Blue Book's Top 10 Best Resale Value list every year since 2003.

Continue reading "MINI garners 2008 resale award nods"

November 15, 2007

Clubman Debuts in LA -- New Member of MINI Offers Flexibility, Fun

WOODCLIFF LAKE, N.J. -- The 2008 MINI Clubman, an all-new addition to the MINI model line, has just made its North American debut today at the Los Angeles International Auto Show, bowing to the audience most unconventionally, with its rear-end first!

With a little more room in the back and an innovative door configuration, the eagerly anticipated MINI Clubman defies convention in its concept and style. This all new addition to the MINI family will go on sale in the US February 19th, 2008 as both a Cooper and a Cooper S model.

The MINI Cooper Clubman will be offered with a MSRP of $20,600 while the MINI Cooper S Clubman will come with a MSRP of $24,100. Both prices include a $650 Destination charge.

Continue reading "Clubman Debuts in LA -- New Member of MINI Offers Flexibility, Fun"

November 14, 2007

Volkswagen claims best brand resale value

IRVINE, Calif. -- Kelley Blue Book announces the all-new 2008 model-year vehicle winners of its annual Best Resale Value Awards, which recognizes current and upcoming vehicles for their projected retained value five years from now (the average ownership period).

Since depreciation (or loss of value) is typically a car-buyer's primary expense during ownership,these awards, like all of kbb.com's new and used vehicle information, are designed to help consumers make more informed car-buying decisions.

Continue reading "Volkswagen claims best brand resale value"

November 9, 2007

BMW Group confirms earnings and sales volume targets for 2007

Munich -- The BMW Group increased sales volume, revenues and earnings figures for the third quarter 2007 and is therefore well on its way towards achieving its earnings and sales volume targets for the full year.

"Excluding the exceptional gain on the Rolls-Royce exchangeable bond, the BMW Group is still aiming to post a current year profit before tax that will be higher than the previous year's record figure", stated Norbert Reithofer, Chairman of BMW AG's Board of Management in Munich on Tuesday.

The company is also heading towards a sales volume for the year of over 1.4 million vehicles, with growth in the high single-digit percentage range. All three brands are forecast to achieve new retail sales volume records.

Continue reading "BMW Group confirms earnings and sales volume targets for 2007"

November 8, 2007

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November 2, 2007

BMW Group Reports 9.6% Increase in October Sales

Year-to-Date Sales of BMW Group up 8.2 Percent

WOODCLIFF LAKE -- The BMW Group in the U.S. (BMW and MINI combined) reported October sales of 26,821 vehicles, an increase of 9.6 percent over the 24,464 vehicles sold in October 2006.

The BMW Group also increased its year-to-date sales volume to 275,094 vehicles, up 8.2 percent, compared to 254,297 vehicles in the same period of 2006.

Continue reading "BMW Group Reports 9.6% Increase in October Sales"

October 29, 2007

BMW Financial Passes $25 Billion in Loans

Significant Business Milestone Fueled By Strength Of Company's Traditional Financial Services Products And Introduction of New Business Lines

Woodcliff Lake, NJ -- Underscoring its position as a recognized leader in the automotive financing arena, BMW Group Financial Services this month surpassed the $25 billion threshold for its U.S. portfolio of serviced assets and grew its customer base to more than 700,000 contracts.

The announcement was made today by Edward A. Robinson, President and Chief Executive Officer of BMW Group Financial Services.

Continue reading "BMW Financial Passes $25 Billion in Loans"

October 28, 2007

MINI tops 2007 Total Value Index

Woodcliff Lake, NJ -- For the sixth consecutive year, MINI has earned top honors in Strategic Vision's 2007 Total Value Index TM (TVI). For 2007, the MINI brand achieved the highest ranking of all brands surveyed with an overall TVI score of 817.

The MINI Cooper and MINI Cooper Convertible also achieved the highest TVI score in their respective segments - an honor both models have received every year since they were launched.

Continue reading "MINI tops 2007 Total Value Index"

October 26, 2007

Volvo and Volkswagen Top Certified Pre-Owned List

LAS VEGAS -- IntelliChoice has announced the winners of its ninth annual ranking of certified pre-owned (CPO) manufacturer-sponsored programs.

Overall, Volvo beat out Cadillac for the best Luxury program—one year after Cadillac ended Jaguar’s long reign in the category—while Volkswagen was recognized for the fourth straight year for best Non-Luxury program. The rankings were unveiled at the 2008 National Remarketing Conference & Used Car Expo, in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Continue reading "Volvo and Volkswagen Top Certified Pre-Owned List"

October 23, 2007

Consumer Guide Announces 2008 Best Buys

LINCOLNWOOD, Ill. -- Consumer Guide Automotive, the leading publisher of authoritative, objective new and used car reviews for 40 years, today announced the recipients of its 2008 Best Buy and Recommended Awards.

The annual list, designed to make car buying easier for consumers, represents the best overall values in 18 categories and includes a total of 87 vehicles.

The editors then use objective criteria, such as price, features, performance, accommodations, fuel economy, reliability records and resale value, to assess each vehicle. The winners are divided into two categories: The Consumer Guide Automotive "Best Buy" and "Recommended" winners.

Continue reading "Consumer Guide Announces 2008 Best Buys"

October 10, 2007

BMW to Build 2 New U.S. Distribution Centers

Expansion of logistics capabilities to keep pace with record growth of vehicle sales

Woodcliff Lake, NJ -- BMW of North America, LLC (BMW NA) announced today that it will expand its distribution network in the eastern and central United States by building two new regional distribution centers.

The facilities will be located in Lower Nazareth, Pennsylvania and in Minooka, Illinois. Together they will be serving 275 BMW and MINI dealers in the Northeast and Midwest.

Continue reading "BMW to Build 2 New U.S. Distribution Centers"

October 3, 2007

Top Cars for City Drivers

CHICAGO -- Living in the city means having some additional things to consider when purchasing a new car. While size is certainly an issue, city living presents other challenges as well.

In compiling a list of the best cars for city dwellers, Cars.com's automotive experts considered size, performance, ride quality and cabin comfort. They also looked at helpful features like parking sensors and backup cameras, and analyzed turning circles and stop-and-go gas mileage.

Continue reading "Top Cars for City Drivers"

October 2, 2007

BMW Group Financial Services Launches up2drive.com

Launch Represents BMW Group Financial Services' Entrance into the Direct-to-Consumer Lending Business

WOODCLIFF LAKE, N.J. -- Marking the company's entry into the direct-to-consumer lending business, BMW Group Financial Services today officially launched www.up2drive.com - an automotive financing website that features convenient loan services designed to empower the consumer through every step of the car buying and selling process.

The launch of www.up2drive.com and the entry into the direct-to-consumer lending sales channel are part of BMW Group Financial Services' strategy to expand its core business beyond the traditional role of a captive finance company in order to reach more consumers.

Continue reading "BMW Group Financial Services Launches up2drive.com"

September 29, 2007

MINI Cooper Convertible Stars in Stiller-Farrelly Fest

Los Angeles, CA -- A MINI Cooper Convertible will kick-off the Fall movie season as the featured automobile in one of this season's most anticipated comedies, "The Heartbreak Kid."

The new DreamWorks Pictures film from Bobby and Peter Farrelly opens nationwide October 5th with an all star cast that includes: Ben Stiller, Michelle Monaghan, Jerry Stiller, and Malin Akerman. Ben Stiller plays eternal bachelor Eddie, who falls head over heels in love with the beautiful Lila (Malin Akerman) and marries at top speed.

Continue reading "MINI Cooper Convertible Stars in Stiller-Farrelly Fest"

September 28, 2007

MINI dealers invite public to test drive during "Motor-Tober"

Woodcliff Lake, NJ -- MINI USA has deemed the month of October "MOTOR-TOBER", a cheeky way to invite people into their nearest MINI showroom during the month of October to test drive a new MINI.

The program is designed to allow potential customers to become future enthusiasts by giving them a chance to get behind the wheel of a MINI and experience first-hand the excellent driving dynamic of MINI's full line of vehicles.

Continue reading "MINI dealers invite public to test drive during "Motor-Tober""

September 27, 2007

BMW Group sets future course

Munich -- The BMW Group has set course for a successful future with its strategic realignment. "We will consistently align the BMW Group to achieve profitability and increase value over the long term," said Norbert Reithofer, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG, on Thursday when he presented the new corporate strategy in Munich.

The Group's strategic direction up to 2020 is clearly defined: The BMW Group is the world's leading provider of premium products and premium services for individual mobility.

Continue reading "BMW Group sets future course"

BMW create two new divisions

Munich -- As part of the company's strategic realignment, the BMW Group will create two new divisions as of October 1, 2007. The new division Corporate and Brand Development, will be headed by our former director of corporate planning, Dr. Friedrich Eichiner.

The move underlines the importance of corporate planning, brand management and strategic implementation at the BMW Group. The division will also be home to BMW Motorrad, Financial Services and Softlab. If new business units are created, they will be assigned to this division.

Continue reading "BMW create two new divisions"

September 26, 2007

MINI tricks out their website

Woodcliff Lake, NJ -- In the spirit of engaging owners in fun and unconventional ways, MINI USA has made enhancements to MINIUSA.com designed to invite owners and enthusiasts to explore and discover new content on the site.

Over 300 enthusiasts and users who have registered as MINI Insiders at www.MINIUSA.com will receive an e-mail with four secret codes that will reveal fun and playful features on the site, some of which change the look and feel of the site in very interesting ways.

Continue reading "MINI tricks out their website"

'Buy American' Desire Drives Many New Shoppers to Purchase Domestic Rather Than Import Nameplates

WESTLAKE VILLAGE, Calif. -- Despite the fact that import vehicles make up nearly 49 percent of the U.S. auto market, the country of origin still plays a crucial role in consumer choice of which make and model to purchase, according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2007 Escaped Shopper Study released today. The study provides a comprehensive evaluation of why consumers may consider one model, but ultimately purchase another.

Nearly 80 percent of new-vehicle buyers limit their consideration set to include only domestic models or only import models. Among those who cross-shop for both import and domestic models, consumers who ultimately buy a domestic frequently do so because they simply decide they do not want an import. Buyers of domestic new-vehicles also frequently decide against import brands for financial reasons, most often citing that the import didn't offer aggressive rebates or other incentives.

Continue reading "'Buy American' Desire Drives Many New Shoppers to Purchase Domestic Rather Than Import Nameplates"

September 25, 2007

BMW Launches New Consumer Automotive Financing Website

Woodcliff Lake, NJ -- Marking the company's entry into the direct-to-consumer lending business, BMW Group Financial Services today officially launched www.up2drive.com - an automotive financing website that features convenient loan services designed to empower the consumer through every step of the car buying and selling process.

Continue reading "BMW Launches New Consumer Automotive Financing Website"

September 21, 2007

MINI Delivers 200,000th Vehicle to U.S. Customer

Woodcliff Lake, NJ -- MINI USA delivered the 200,000th MINI sold in the U.S. to proud owner, Scott L. Kleeman, marking a major sales milestone for the iconic auto brand since its arrival in the U.S. five years ago. Impressively, MINI USA has achieved this sales goal a full two years earlier than initially projected.

Scott Kleeman purchased his Chili Red 2007 MINI Cooper Convertible at the end of July from Prestige MINI in Mahwah, NJ and in a ceremony to recognize this milestone, Scott was invited to the dealer to celebrate his status as the lucky owner of the 200,000th MINI.

Continue reading "MINI Delivers 200,000th Vehicle to U.S. Customer"

September 11, 2007

Picks for Looking Cool in the Carpool Lane

CHICAGO -- With the 2007 school year in full swing, Mother Proof has some advice for moms about cars that will turn heads in the carpool lane at school.

"The carpool lane is no different than the red carpet, really -- if there were a bunch of photographers and commentators in addition to all the moms, it would be closer than we'd care to admit," said Kristin Varela, Chief Mother at Mother Proof. "So as we took a look at the crowd during the beginning of this school year, we thought of ways modern moms can convey all their coolness in the carpool lane."

Continue reading "Picks for Looking Cool in the Carpool Lane"

September 4, 2007

BMW Group Reports Strong August Sales, Up 19.3%

WOODCLIFF LAKE, N.J. -- The BMW Group in the U.S. (BMW and MINI combined) reports strong August sales of 30,639 vehicles, an increase of 19.3 percent over the 25,673 vehicles sold in August 2006.

The BMW Group also increased its year-to-date sales volume to 223,341 vehicles, up 8.1 percent, compared to 206,530 vehicles in the same period of 2006.

Continue reading "BMW Group Reports Strong August Sales, Up 19.3%"

September 2, 2007

John Cooper Works Tuning Kit for MINI Cooper S

Woodcliff Lake -- MINI USA announces the availability of the John Cooper Works Tuning Kit for the all-new MINI Cooper S introduced this year. The new kit, designed specifically for the Cooper S with a manual transmission and its twin-scroll turbocharged engine, offers increased horsepower and torque over that of the standard model.

The tuning kit is just the latest addition to the successful line of MINI’s high performance John Cooper Works accessories which include suspension upgrades, performance wheels and tires, body kits as well as exterior and interior appearance accessories. A John Cooper Works Tuning kit calibrated for the MINI Cooper S with an Automatic transmission will be made available later in the year.

Continue reading "John Cooper Works Tuning Kit for MINI Cooper S"

August 31, 2007

Hyundai Elantra Bests Competitors in Tests of Four Small Sedans

YONKERS, N.Y. -- The redesigned Hyundai Elantra outscored the Mitsubishi Lancer, Nissan Sentra, and Scion xB in Consumer Reports' testing of a group of four small sedans and wagons for the October issue. The Elantra now ranks sixth overall among the 14 small cars that CR has tested recently.

Also, Consumer Reports ranked the Mazdaspeed3 as its top-rated sports car following tests of three sporty vehicles for the same issue. The Mazdaspeed3 was tested against the redesigned Mini Cooper S and the Saturn Sky Redline.

Continue reading "Hyundai Elantra Bests Competitors in Tests of Four Small Sedans"

August 25, 2007

BMW Financial Services Ranks Highest in Dealer Satisfaction for 4th Straight Year

WOODCLIFF LAKE, N.J. -- For the fourth consecutive year, BMW Financial Services (BMW FS) ranked highest in dealer satisfaction for retail leasing in the J.D. Power and Associates Dealer Financing Satisfaction Study.

BMW Financial Services provides financial services to more than 625,000 customers in the United States and leases or finances more than half of the new BMW vehicles sold there.

Continue reading "BMW Financial Services Ranks Highest in Dealer Satisfaction for 4th Straight Year"

Report: Auto Finance Providers Exploring Direct Lending Initiatives

WESTLAKE VILLAGE -- As competition in the auto finance market intensifies, many lenders are deploying full-spectrum strategies, which consists of lenders servicing both prime and sub-prime customers, to increase volume and market share and to improve service to their dealers, according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2007 Dealer Financing Satisfaction Study released today.

The study finds that many prime finance providers are making the transition to the sub-prime market, with 57 percent of dealers utilizing traditionally prime lenders for sub-prime customers. Conversely, only 33 percent of dealers report using traditional sub-prime lender services for their prime customers.

Continue reading "Report: Auto Finance Providers Exploring Direct Lending Initiatives"

August 20, 2007

10 Safe Vehicles Less Than $25,000

ANN ARBOR, Mich. -- The 10 Safe New Vehicles for Less Than $25,000 list has arrived today, just in time for the final weeks of summer.

Vehicles that made the list had to meet tough standards, which required all vehicles include stability control and a minimum of six airbags (front and side curtain). On some of the vehicles, those safety requirements are not standard and cost a little extra, but even with those extras, all of the vehicles come in under $25,000.

Continue reading "10 Safe Vehicles Less Than $25,000"

August 12, 2007

MINI renews motorsport program with Fireballed! Racing

Torrance, CA -- MINI USA has renewed its motorsport racing development program with Southern California's extreme tuning house, FIREBALLED! RACING, signing a 5 year deal through 2012.

FIREBALLED! will continue the build-out of its MINI race programs through a number of upcoming TV, internet, mobile and multi-media platforms and event venues.

With the launch of the new 2007 MINI Cooper and Cooper S, MINI USA is exploring a variety of areas to expand and strengthen the MINI brand via the sport compact market and race venues.

Continue reading "MINI renews motorsport program with Fireballed! Racing"

Fireballed Racing and MINI USA Selected to Build Custom Project MINI

Torrance, CA -- MINI USA and FIREBALLED! RACING & PERFORMANCE! have been selected to compete on the hit SPEED Channel series "Street Tuner Challenge" premiering its third season this October, 2007.

FIREBALLED! RACING & PERFORMANCE! representing the European vehicle manufacture entry, will customize a 2007 MINI Cooper S to go head-to-head with two other teams modifying their respective US and Asian vehicle entries.

Continue reading "Fireballed Racing and MINI USA Selected to Build Custom Project MINI"

August 10, 2007

Report: Buick and Lexus Brands Tie for Highest Vehicle Dependability

WESTLAKE VILLAGE, Calif. -- Buick ties with Lexus to rank highest among nameplates in vehicle dependability -- marking the first time in 12 years that another brand ties with Lexus for the highest-rank position, according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2007 Vehicle Dependability Study(SM) (VDS) released today.

The study, which measures problems experienced by original owners of 3-year-old (2004 model year) vehicles, finds that Buick and Lexus tie for the top rank position with a score of 145 problems per 100 vehicles (PP100). Following in the top five rankings are Cadillac, Mercury and Honda, respectively.

Continue reading "Report: Buick and Lexus Brands Tie for Highest Vehicle Dependability"

August 2, 2007

BMW reports 2nd Quarter rise in sales, revenue

Munich -- The BMW Group remained on course in the second quarter despite the adverse impact of on-going currency effects on the one hand and market launch and production start-up costs for new models on the other.

The total number of BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce brand cars delivered to customers rose by 8.6% to a new record figure of 397,009 units (second quarter 2006: 365,547 units). Group revenues climbed by 11.3% to euro 14,683 million (second quarter 2006: euro 13,193 million).

Continue reading "BMW reports 2nd Quarter rise in sales, revenue"

BMW Group Reports July Sales up 20%

WOODCLIFF LAKE, N.J. -- The BMW Group in the U.S. (BMW and MINI combined) reports strong July sales of 28,364 vehicles, an increase of 20.1 percent over the 23,611 vehicles sold in July 2006.

The BMW Group also increased its year-to-date sales volume to 192,702 vehicles, an increase of 6.5 percent, compared to 180,857 vehicles in the same period of 2006.

Continue reading "BMW Group Reports July Sales up 20%"

July 30, 2007

Mini invites you to join the Club, Man

Woodcliff Lake, NJ -- The wraps are now off the new MINI Clubman, an all-new addition to the MINI model range. With an anticipated international debut this fall, the MINI Clubman will go on sale in Europe this November in three model configurations: the MINI Cooper Clubman, the MINI Cooper D Clubman and the MINI Cooper S Clubman.

In the US market the MINI Cooper Clubman and the MINI Cooper S Clubman will be available early next year. Although US pricing has yet to be announced, the MINI Clubman is expected to be positioned between the MINI hardtops and MINI convertibles.

The eagerly anticipated MINI Clubman will be like nothing else on the road and defies convention in its concept and style. With its hallmark design elements, the MINI Clubman is clearly a MINI from every angle. Yet it is the MINI Clubman's unique rear-end design and new proportions that distinguish it from other members of the MINI family.

Continue reading "Mini invites you to join the Club, Man"

Car Buyer's Notebook Now Available in Nine Languages!

Thanks to the Babel Fish translation software from AltaVista, Car Buyer's Notebook is now available in translation for nine languages. If you include English.

The alternate languages include: Spanish, French, German, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Italian and Portugese.

All you have to do is click on the appropriate flag in the box that is on the right hand side of the site.

Click here to read Car Buyer's Notebook in Spanish.

Click here to read Car Buyer's Notebook in French.

Click here to read Car Buyer's Notebook in Japanese.

Click here to read Car Buyer's Notebook in Chinese.

Click here to read Car Buyer's Notebook in German.

Click here to read Car Buyer's Notebook in Korean.

Click here to read Car Buyer's Notebook in Italian.

Click here to read Car Buyer's Notebook in Portugese.

July 20, 2007

New Cars with Best Fuel Mileage

Of the ten vehicles that get the best gas mileage, Toyota and Honda dominate the list with four cars each:

1. 2007 Toyota Prius Hybrid - 51 Highway/60 City - $22,175
2. 2007 Honda Civic Hybrid - 51 Highway/40 City - $22,600
3. 2007 Toyota Corolla - 41 Highway/32 City - $14,305

Continue reading "New Cars with Best Fuel Mileage"

July 11, 2007

Mini Coopers to Heavy-Duty Pickups Feature Electronic Stability Control from TRW Automotive

LIVONIA, Mich. -- TRW Automotive Holdings Corp. -- the global leader in active and passive safety systems - has announced that it is supplying its Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system to several new vehicles, including the MINI Cooper and Cooper S hardtops, the Saab 9-3, and various General Motors heavy-duty pickup trucks.

TRW's ESC can help to add value, protection and safety to the full spectrum of passenger vehicle types. In fact, with the new vehicles being added this year, TRW will be supplying ESC technology to more than 40 different models produced by more than a dozen automakers around the world - ranging from small compact cars to large pickup trucks and 15-passenger vans.

Continue reading "Mini Coopers to Heavy-Duty Pickups Feature Electronic Stability Control from TRW Automotive"

July 7, 2007

BMW Group Sets Global Sales Record in June

Munich -- The growth in sales recorded by the BMW Group has accelerated noticeably as of the end of the first six months of 2007.

In a June monthly comparison, the company increased the number of automobiles delivered to customers by 15.1% to 150,285 (previous year: 130,542). Never before in its history has the world's leading manufacturer of premium vehicles sold so many automobiles in one month.

Continue reading "BMW Group Sets Global Sales Record in June"

July 4, 2007

Get the Car Buyer's Notebook Widget!

Aren't you tired of constantly navigating to sites, several times a day to keep up with the latest news?

I know I am -- and that's why I love widgets.

Widgets are these cool pieces of desktop "furniture" [like ours at right] that you can add to your computer -- and thus have a continuous live feed of updated news -- without going to a website to scan for cool stuff. [The widget can either be "parked" on top of all windows, or left underneath -- they're customizable, too!]

In the case of Car Buyer's Notebook, we have created just such a widget for you to download to your desktop -- and when you see a story you're really interested in, click on the title and it will take you to a new browser window to see the whole thing.

Getting our widget is simple -- there's only two steps:

1. Go to Springwidgets and download the widget software.

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July 3, 2007

BMW Group Reports Strong June, Up 6%

WOODCLIFF LAKE -- The BMW Group in the U.S. (BMW and MINI combined) reports strong June sales of 29,394 vehicles, an increase of 6.0 percent over the 27,735 vehicles sold in June 2006. The BMW Group also increased its first half-year sales to 164,338 vehicles, an increase of 4.5 percent, compared to 157,246 vehicles in the same period of 2006.

Sales of BMW brand vehicles climbed to reach the best June and best year- to-date figures ever. In June, sales are up 4.3 percent for a total of 25,220 compared to 24,179 reported in the same month a year ago.

Continue reading "BMW Group Reports Strong June, Up 6%"

June 29, 2007

Assael BMW Dealership Acquired by Sonic Automotive

CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- Sonic Automotive, Inc., a leader in automotive retailing, announced the acquisition of Assael BMW/Mini of Monrovia located in Southern California, representing approximately $180 million in annual revenues. Year-to-date in 2007, Sonic Automotive has acquired dealerships representing approximately $400 million in annual revenues.

B. Scott Smith, the Company's President and Chief Strategic Officer, stated, "This is a premier BMW dealership and a terrific addition to our luxury brand mix in one of our largest markets. Acquisitions like this - stable, well run, luxury stores that we can take to the next level of operating performance - are what form the core of our acquisition strategy."

Continue reading "Assael BMW Dealership Acquired by Sonic Automotive"

June 15, 2007

MINI Invades Zandvoort

Three-day festival at the race track near Amsterdam starts on June 22nd.

Munich/Amsterdam -- The countdown has begun: after the overwhelming success of the premiere in 2005 in Misano, Italy, preparations are now getting underway for the second MINI United Festival.

The meeting place for thousands of MINI fans from all over the world this time round is the Circuit Park in Zandvoort, near Amsterdam, Holland. The international MINI community will be descending on this venue for three days from June 22nd to 24th 2007.

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June 13, 2007

MINI USA Scores Top Automotive Honors at 2007 Effie Awards

WOODCLIFF LAKE, N.J. -- MINI USA's "Covert" automotive marketing campaign, created by Butler Shine Stern & Partners, received top honors in the automotive category at the 39th Annual Effie Awards at New York's Metropolitan Pavilion on June 8th. Honoring the most significant achievement in the business of marketing communications-ideas that work-the Effie Awards are internationally considered the preeminent award in the advertising industry.

Continue reading "MINI USA Scores Top Automotive Honors at 2007 Effie Awards"

June 9, 2007

BMW increases global sales 7% in May

BMW brand grows by 5.8%, MINI by 14.1%

MINI passes the million mark

Munich. BMW Group sales rose by 7.0% in May compared with the same month last year reaching 128,408 automobiles (prev.yr.: 119,996).

For the year to the end of May, the number of BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce vehicles delivered to customers rose by 2.1% to 580,043 (prev.yr.: 567,940).

Continue reading "BMW increases global sales 7% in May"

June 7, 2007

MINI Offers Factory-Installed HD Radio Receiver In 2007 MINI Cooper and Cooper S

Option Offers Owners Premium Sound of Digital AM/FM Radio Technology

WOODCLIFF LAKE, N.J. -- MINI USA is now offering a factory-installed digital HD Radio receiver with FM multicasting capability as an option in the all-new 2007 MINI Cooper and Cooper S hardtops, produced from June 2007. MINI joins its sister brand, BMW to be only one of two automotive brands to currently offer HD Radio technology to its customers.

Continue reading "MINI Offers Factory-Installed HD Radio Receiver In 2007 MINI Cooper and Cooper S"

June 1, 2007

BMW Group Reports 8.7% Increase in May Sales

Year-to-Date Sales of BMW Group up 4.2%

WOODCLIFF LAKE, N.J. -- The BMW Group in the U. S. (BMW and MINI brands combined) reports strong demand for its vehicles in May, with sales of 30,819 vehicles, up 8.7 percent over the 28,360 vehicles sold in the same month of 2006. The BMW Group also reports an increase of 4.2 percent in year-to-date sales, for 134,944 vehicles over the 129,511 vehicles reported in May 2006.

Continue reading "BMW Group Reports 8.7% Increase in May Sales"

May 21, 2007

Shoppers Choose Best New 2007 Road Trip Vehicles

IRVINE, Calif. -- With Memorial Day officially kicking off the summer driving season, a record numbers of travelers will be hitting the road this year.

According to AAA, approximately 38.3 million people are expected to travel during the holiday weekend, making it the busiest travel weekend in U.S. history. As a result, the road test editors of Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com chose 10 new vehicles well-suited for road trips and then asked shoppers which of these vehicles they would most like to take on the road this summer.

10 Best New Road Trip Vehicles for 2007:

1. Jaguar XKR Convertible
2. BMW 3-Series Convertible
3. Chevrolet Suburban
4. Dodge Charger SRT8
5. Mercedes-Benz E320 BLUETEC
6. GMC Acadia
7. Land Rover LR3
8. Ford Edge
9. MINI Cooper
10. Mazda MX-5 Miata Convertible Hardtop

Continue reading "Shoppers Choose Best New 2007 Road Trip Vehicles"

May 18, 2007

Brits Love Movie MINI Best

Mischievous Minis Voted Nation's Favourite

CARDIFF -- The Italian Job Minis have been voted as the nation's favourite cars from film and television in a poll by online car insurance specialist, elephant.co.uk. The second most popular was Back to The Future's DeLorean with KITT, Knight Rider's talking car coming in third.

elephant.co.uk asked motorists to name their favourite famous cars and their childhood had a big impact on their answers as each age group voted for cars in television series or films popular when they were growing up.

Continue reading "Brits Love Movie MINI Best"

May 2, 2007

BMW Brand Sales Up 4.9% Year-To-Date

April 2007 one of the strongest months ever for BMW Group in the U.S.

WOODCLIFF LAKE, N.J. -- The BMW Group in the U.S. (BMW and MINI brands combined) reported sales of 104,125 vehicles year-to-date, a 2.9 percent increase over the 101,151 vehicles sold in the same period of 2006.

The BMW Group also reported a slight increase of 0.5 percent in April sales. 28,692 vehicles were sold compared to 28,563 vehicles reported in the same month a year earlier. This makes April 2007 one of the strongest months ever reported by the BMW Group in the U.S.

BMW Brand Reports Increase in Year-To-Date Sales

BMW brand continues to be strong with sales up 4.9 percent year-to-date, as the company reported sales of 92,670 vehicles compared to 88,353 vehicles sold in first four months of 2006.

Continue reading "BMW Brand Sales Up 4.9% Year-To-Date"

April 23, 2007

MINI Cooper Gets Five Star Rating in Europ NCAP CRASH TEST

Non-partisan testers confirm highly effective, all-round occupant safety in the new MINI

Munich. The new MINI is not only one of the most fascinating, but also one of the safest cars in its segment.

So it is no surprise that the new MINI's highly effective passive safety system has now been confirmed by the highest possible score in the Euro NCAP Crash Test: The new MINI Cooper has received five stars for its superior safety, clearly proving that this small premium car offers the high standards of the BMW Group also in the area of occupant safety and guarantees maximum safety all round despite its compact dimensions.

In the Euro NCAP Crash Test the new MINI Cooper achieved outstanding results in both the head-on and the side-on/pillar crash, the risk of injury to occupants of the new MINI Cooper being deemed very small indeed in all cases.

Continue reading "MINI Cooper Gets Five Star Rating in Europ NCAP CRASH TEST"

April 19, 2007

Minimillionth

THE SUCCESS STORY CONTINUES: MINI MAKES A MILLION

New production and sales record expected in 2007

Oxford/Munich -- Six years after the start of series production, the one millionth MINI has rolled off the production line at Plant Oxford.

Reaching the one million mark represents another milestone in what has become a thrilling MINI success story. This year also sees a new addition to the MINI family in the form of the MINI Clubman, the third model in the MINI range and with increased production capacity and rising demand MINI is heading for a new production and sales record.

Since its launch in 2001 MINI has defined a new market segment - the premium small car with a worldwide presence and a comprehensive range of customisation options. From Chile to China, MINI is enjoying growing popularity among customers across 80 markets around the world.

Continue reading "Minimillionth"

April 16, 2007

Report: most cars still can't prevent whiplash

Rear crash protection in cars: seat/head restraints in two of every three models are marginal or poor

Among the winners are seat designs in all Volvos; Audi A4, S4 and A6; Ford Five Hundred/ Mercury Montego; Nissan Sentra and Versa; Saab 9-3; and Subaru Impreza and Legacy/Outback.

ARLINGTON, VA — Seat/head restraint designs in 22 current car models are rated good for rear crash protection, but those in 53 other cars are rated marginal or poor. The latest evaluations of occupant protection in rear-end collisions by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety found that the seat/head restraints in more than 60 percent of car models fall short of current state-of-the-art protection from neck injury or whiplash.

The ratings of good, acceptable, marginal, or poor are based on geometric measurements of head restraints and simulated crashes that together assess how well people of different sizes would be protected in a typical rear-end collision.

Among the winners are seat designs in all Volvos; Audi A4, S4 and A6; Ford Five Hundred/ Mercury Montego; Nissan Sentra and Versa; Saab 9-3; and Subaru Impreza and Legacy/Outback. Seat/head restraints in 12 other car models are rated acceptable. These results show some improvement since the Institute began rear impact tests of seat/head restraints in 2004. Seats in only 8 car models earned good ratings in 2004.

Continue reading "Report: most cars still can't prevent whiplash"

April 4, 2007

BMW Group Reports 3.9 Percent Increase in First Quarter Sales

WOODCLIFF LAKE -- The BMW Group (BMW and MINI brands combined) reported year-to-date sales of 75,433 vehicles, a 3.9 percent increase over the 72,588 sold in the first quarter of 2006. The BMW Group also reported an increase of 2.2 percent in March sales, for 28,980 vehicles over the 28,352 vehicles reported in March 2006.

Continue reading "BMW Group Reports 3.9 Percent Increase in First Quarter Sales"

March 27, 2007

MINI Offers SIRIUS Satellite Radio Factory Installed With Lifetime Subscription

MINI USA and SIRIUS Satellite Radio today announced that SIRIUS is available as a factory installed option with a lifetime subscription on the all-new 2007 MINI Cooper and MINI Cooper S hardtops produced beginning this June. The lifetime subscription is transferable with the car from one owner to the next.

The factory-installed SIRIUS radio with a lifetime subscription will be available for an MSRP of $950. MINI USA will also offer SIRIUS, with a lifetime subscription, as part of its upgraded Audio Pack that also includes MINI's Hi-Fi sound system, for an MSRP of just $1,400.

"We are excited to offer our customers factory-installed SIRIUS radio with a lifetime subscription." said Rich Steinberg, head of MINI Product Strategy, "Now it makes the choice even easier for them to enjoy SIRIUS radio in their new MINI."

Continue reading "MINI Offers SIRIUS Satellite Radio Factory Installed With Lifetime Subscription"

March 19, 2007

MINI USA Chooses Clear Channel Radio’s Total Traffic Network

2007 MINI Hardtops With Optional Navigation System Come Standard With Clear Channel Traffic Data

SAN ANTONIO -- Clear Channel Radio’s Total Traffic Network today announced that it will begin providing its real-time traffic data on navigation-equipped 2007 MINI Cooper and Cooper S hardtops beginning with March production. No subscription will be required for Clear Channel Radio’s traffic service, which is now available in 44 markets across the U.S. The real-time traffic information, provided in partnership with INRIX, will allow MINI drivers to avoid potential delays due to traffic congestion or road closures.

Continue reading "MINI USA Chooses Clear Channel Radio’s Total Traffic Network"

March 15, 2007

MINI offers on-board, real time traffic data

2007 MINI Hardtops With Optional Navigation System Come Standard with Clear Channel Traffic Data

Woodcliff Lake, NJ -- MINI USA announces that it is offering Clear Channel Radio's Total Traffic Network traffic data on navigation-equipped 2007 MINI Cooper and Cooper S hardtops beginning March production.

The service, which is integrated into the vehicle's optional navigation system, will come standard and free of charge for Clear Channel Radio's traffic service, which is now available in 44 markets across the U.S. The real time traffic information provided will allow MINI drivers to avoid potential delays due to traffic congestion or road closures

Continue reading "MINI offers on-board, real time traffic data"

March 1, 2007

BMW + MINI Reports 11.9% Increase in February

BMW Brand Sales increase 15.2% Due to New Products

All-New MINI on the Market Since February 17

WOODCLIFF LAKE, N.J. -- The BMW Group (BMW and MINI brands combined) reported February sales of 24,642 vehicles, an increase of 11.9 percent over the 22,018 vehicles sold in the same month of 2006. Year-to- date, BMW Group sales increased 5.0 percent, to 46,453 vehicles versus the 44,236 sold in the first two months of 2006.

BMW Brand Sales

BMW reported sales of 22,274 automobiles and Sports Activity Vehicles (SAV), up 15.2 percent compared to the 19,328 vehicles reported in February 2006. Year-to-date, BMW reported sales of 42,035 vehicles compared to the 38,602 reported in the same period a year ago, an increase of 8.9 percent.

BMW Automobile Sales

BMW's monthly automobile sales increased 12.2 percent for the month, at 17,342 versus 15,463 in February 2006. This is due, in part, to the strong reception of the new 3 Series Coupe and the new 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged inline six-cylinder engines available in all variants of the 3 Series. For the first two months combined, BMW automobile sales increased 6.3 percent to 32,871 versus 30,918 reported in the same period last year.

BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Sales

Continue reading "BMW + MINI Reports 11.9% Increase in February"

February 20, 2007

BMW increases financial reimbursement for disabled buyers

Woodcliff Lake, NJ -- In an effort to make its products more accessible to buyers with disabilities, BMW Group today announced that it will lift the reimbursement ceiling for disabled buyers of BMW and MINI vehicles who wish to make one-time vehicle modifications to facilitate or ease their use of the vehicle. Previously, BMW Group limited the amount it reimbursed buyers.

“We are committed to meeting the unique needs of our customers,” said Tom Purves, chairman and CEO of BMW (US) Holding Corp.

BMW Group will reimburse buyers of new and certified pre-owned BMW and MINI vehicles for one-time driver modifications, provided that certain requirements are met.

Continue reading "BMW increases financial reimbursement for disabled buyers"

February 19, 2007

Hammer & Coop is must-see MINI-TV

I watched the first couple episodes of Hammer & Coop, a short-run web feature produced for MINI -- AND I LOVE IT! It's essentially a mocky mashup of 70s cop shows Starsky & Hutch and Knight Rider, with the MINI Cooper appearing as the talking "Coop." The shows are a couple minutes long and feature bad acting, bad fighting, bad villains, bad theme music and even bad clothes -- all dripping in layers of gooey cheese. Press release follows, but you have to watch for yourself at Hammer & Coop:

NEW YORK -- Following a number of mysterious appearances on movie screens and billboards across the country, today MINI USA finally offered an answer to the burning question: Who are "Hammer & Coop"?!

MINI USA officially unveiled the project - a highly stylized series of web- based films about a new action hero ("Hammer") and his souped-up sidekick ("Coop") - on the website www.hammerandcoop.com.

Each webisode promises action, adventure and intrigue, and is sure to keep online audiences riveted to their computer screens. All six films, which will be rolled-out over the next month, were directed by Todd Phillips (Old School, Starsky & Hutch) and starring actor Bryan Callen.

Continue reading "Hammer & Coop is must-see MINI-TV"

January 29, 2007

MINI introduces smart billboards w/RFID technology

First-Ever 'Talking' Billboards Revealed to MINI Motorists; Smiles Expected as Drivers 'Motorby'

MINI USA First to Use Advanced Technology to Communicate Directly With Consumers Through Pilot Program Launching in New York, Chicago, San Francisco and Miami

Imagine MINI owner Scott is driving down the highway. He's checking out the billboards -- phone companies (snore) ... online casinos (no thanks) ... "MOTOR LIKE YOU MEAN IT, SCOTT!" (Hold on! Say what?). Scott has just experienced personalized "talking" billboards -- the latest innovation from MINI USA, which will be the first to use advanced technology to communicate directly with its consumers with the introduction of MINI Motorby.

Commuters who are tired of seeing billboards with the same mind-numbing out-of-home copy will instead be greeted by MINI Motorboards. These boards feature an ever-changing array of unique, personal, playful and unexpected messages targeted to and triggered by MINI owners. Messages will be spelled out in lights on billboards in locations in New York, Chicago, San Francisco and Miami beginning late January 2007 and early February 2007.

To "deliver" their Motorby messages, MINI will utilize Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology -- or, as MINI likes to call it, "Really Fun Interactive Devices." RFID, which is used in everything from passports and credit cards to pet IDs, tollbooths and even ski lifts, has never been used as a means of communication with customers -- until now. With this groundbreaking new use of RFID, MINI will engage its community in a conversation in a fun, engaging, dynamic and personalized way.

Continue reading "MINI introduces smart billboards w/RFID technology"

BMW Group sets revenue record in 2006

Munich --The BMW Group continued its successful course in 2006 with record figures for sales volume and revenues. Compared to the previous year, group revenues increased by 5.0% to euro 48,999 million (2005: euro 46,656 million). Revenues generated by the Automobiles segment went up by 4.2% to euro 47,767 million (2005: euro 45,861 million). The Motorcycles segment generated revenues of euro 1,265 million (2005: euro 1,223 million/+3.4%), whilst revenues from financial services rose by 17.8% to euro 11,079 million (2005: euro 9.408 million).

Continue reading "BMW Group sets revenue record in 2006"

January 12, 2007

Top Ten Most Requested Cars

According to Dealix, the engine that powers Car Buyer's Notebook's free vehicle price quote service, these are the top ten cars buyer's requested prices for in the fourth quarter of 2006:

1. Toyota Camry
2. Honda Civic Sedan
3. Toyota Corolla
4. Honda Accord Sedan
5. BMW 3 Series
6. Honda Civic Coupe
7. MINI Cooper
8. Honda Accord Coupe
9. Ford Mustang
10. Mazda MAZDA3

January 9, 2007

BMW sets global sales record in 2006

3.5 percent growth over previous year; Worldwide market leadership of premium segment defended

Detroit/Munich. The BMW Group increased its sales in 2006 by 3.5%. Throughout the world, 1,373,926 automobiles were delivered to customers (previous year: 1,327,992).

Sales of the BMW brand, at 1,185,049 vehicles, outstripped the previous year's figure (1,126,768) by 5.2%. Sales of the MINI brand fell by 6.2% to 188,072 deliveries (previous year: 200,428). As already stated, this is due to the building measures in the MINI plant in Oxford aimed at expanding production capacity and the changeover of production to the second generation of MINI.

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars handed over 805 Phantoms to customers (previous year: 796/+1.1%). This means that, since the market launch of the Rolls-Royce brand under the umbrella of the BMW Group in 2003, sales have risen for the fourth time in a row.

Continue reading "BMW sets global sales record in 2006"

January 3, 2007

BMW Group Reports Strongest Year Ever

Monthly BMW Brand Sales Jump 17 Percent, Topping 30,000 for First Time

The BMW Group in the U.S. (BMW and MINI brands combined) today reported its best-ever annual sales of 313,603 vehicles, an increase of 2.1 percent above the 307,020 vehicles sold in 2005. December sales of 33,417, an all-time monthly high, were up 16 percent over the 28,900 vehicles reported in the last month of 2005.

BMW Brand Sales
BMW brand sales were up 3 percent year-to-date, to 274,432 vehicles compared to 266,200 vehicles sold during 2005.

BMW brand sales jumped 17 percent in December for a total of 30,945 vehicles compared to 26,464 reported in the same month a year ago.

"New products across a broad range of the BMW brand offerings fueled the record increase in sales," according to Tom Purves, chairman and CEO of BMW (US) Holding Corp. BMW models introduced this year include the 3 Series Coupe, the X3 and X5 Sports Activity Vehicles, several new M brand models and the new Z4 Coupe.

BMW Automobile Sales
Calendar year sales of BMW brand automobiles were up 9.4 percent, to 216,343 automobiles over 197,833 in the same period of 2005. Monthly automobile sales increased 20 percent in December to 24,535 cars versus 20,510 in the same month a year ago.

Continue reading "BMW Group Reports Strongest Year Ever"

January 2, 2007

MINI Convertible Sidewalk Makes World Debut at Detroit Auto Show

The MINI Convertible Sidewalk will make its world debut at NAIAS 2007 while the second-generation MINI Cooper and Cooper S have their North American premiere in Detroit.

The MINI Convertible Sidewalk, available in spring, is an exclusive package on both the MINI Cooper Convertible as well as the MINI Cooper S Convertible at a cost of $4,000. For other international markets, the MINI Sidewalk Convertible will be sold as an individual model.

The Sidewalk package offers an exclusive look, featuring special light-alloy wheels, attractive interior surface trim and leather upholstery developed specifically for the package. In addition, the package comes with a host of options and equipment bundled together to offer more exclusivity, substance and value.

The Cooper Sidewalk includes 16-inch bridge spoke wheels and sport seats. The Cooper S Convertible Sidewalk includes 17-inch Night Spoke wheels and Xenon headlamps. The package for both models comes with English leather sport seats in an exclusive malt brown color and Sidewalk interior surfaces and graphics. The steering wheel comes wrapped in special Sidewalk sport leather and is integrated with multi-function controls including cruise control. Rounding out the package options are Dynamic Stability Control, Chrome Line interior trim, a center armrest and a Harmon/Kardon sound system.

Continue reading "MINI Convertible Sidewalk Makes World Debut at Detroit Auto Show"

December 22, 2006

Next Gen MINI Cooper and Cooper S to Debut in Detroit

Mini Sidewalk Convertible Also Makes World Debut

The all-new second generation MINI Cooper and Cooper S hardtops will make their North American debut at the North American International Auto Show in January. MINI will also present the MINI Convertible Sidewalk for its World debut. It will be offered in the U.S. as an option package and as a separate model for international markets.

The new MINI Cooper and Cooper S hardtops build upon the design success of the first generation MINI models which offer go-kart like reflexes and the ability for customers to individualize their car. The most successful premium small car in the world has been updated in a way that is evolutionary in design and revolutionary in substance. And a wide range of engine, transmission, chassis and steering innovations give the all-new MINI an impressive level of sportiness and agility.

Continue reading "Next Gen MINI Cooper and Cooper S to Debut in Detroit"

December 12, 2006

MINI USA awards cash to those who race their cars

All-Time High Awards Show MINIs Domination in Private Competition

Woodcliff Lake, NJ - December 12, 2006... MINI USA has awarded top MINI motorsport competitors each an average of over $5,000 in prize money during the 2006 racing season.

The MINI USA Motorsports Awards program grants prize money to MINI competitors who have raced and successfully placed in their respective class at key 2006 race events. The impressive payouts for the 2006 season have been a result of a greater number of MINIs getting out and dominating the world of grassroots racing events.

Continue reading "MINI USA awards cash to those who race their cars"

December 11, 2006

2007 MINI Hardtops Boast Improved Fuel Efficiency

MINI Cooper with Manual Transmission Tops 40 Miles per Gallon According to Recent EPA Testing

In light of increasing fuel prices, many manufacturers are striving to produce vehicles with an average fuel economy of 30 miles per gallon. The fact that the all-new 2007 MINI Cooper achieves 40 miles per gallon according to the latest EPA testing should be welcomed by car buyers across the US. And that the MINI Cooper delivers this miserly fuel economy with no effect on its performance and driving capabilities is an added advantage.

MINI USA's growth in sales over the past 5 years to just over 170,000 cars and the overall growth trend of the small-car market demonstrates how the industry is responding to the need for increased efficiency. MINI is a prime example that buyers do not need to sacrifice performance, quality and fun when opting for a smaller, more efficient vehicle.

Continue reading "2007 MINI Hardtops Boast Improved Fuel Efficiency"

December 7, 2006

BMW Group heading for new record year

Almost 1.25 million cars delivered through the end of November 06

Munich. The BMW Group has delivered 1,244,775 BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce brand automobiles through the end of November this year. Compared with the same period last year (1,211,121), this is an increase of 33,654 vehicles, or 2.8%. In November 2006, the BMW Group sold 114,321 automobiles, which marks a rise of 0.3% compared with the same month last year (114,007).

Continue reading "BMW Group heading for new record year"

December 1, 2006

BMW Group Reports Steady November Sales

The BMW Group in the U.S. (BMW and MINI brands combined) today reported year-to-date sales of 280,186 vehicles, an increase of 0.7 percent above the 278,120 vehicles sold in the same period of 2005. November sales were off 3.6 percent, with the Group reporting 25,889 vehicles versus the 26,844 reported in 2005.

BMW Brand Sales
BMW brand sales were up 1.6 percent year-to-date, to 243,487 vehicles compared to 239,736 vehicles sold in the same period in 2005.

Continue reading "BMW Group Reports Steady November Sales"

November 30, 2006

MINI wins resale honors

"Best Resale Value in Hatchback Category" "Best Resale Value in Convertible Category" and Top 10 Scorer Overall

Los Angeles, CA -- MINI took home three honors in Kelley Blue Book's "2007 Best Resale Value Awards". MINI was awarded two top spots with "Best Resale Value" in the Hatchback category and "Best Resale Value" in the Convertible category. In addition, the MINI Cooper has achieved a spot in the list of models ranked with the Top 10 Best Resale Value.

“As a testament to the MINI Cooper’s unwavering appeal, both the hatchback and convertible versions top their respective categories in this year’s resale value awards,” said Jack R. Nerad, executive editorial director and executive market analyst for Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com. “With an additional placement in the overall top 10, the expressive and fun MINI remains a resale champion.”

Continue reading "MINI wins resale honors"

November 2, 2006

BMW Group Reports October Sales

The BMW Group in the U.S. (BMW and MINI brands combined) reported year-to-date sales of 254,297 vehicles, an increase of 1.2 percent above the 251,276 vehicles sold in the first ten months of 2005. October sales were off 4.6 percent, with the Group reporting 24,464 vehicles verses the 25,635 reported in 2005.

BMW Brand Sales
BMW brand sales were up 2.2 percent year-to-date, to 220,885 vehicles compared to 216,063 vehicles sold in the same period in 2005.

BMW brand sales were down 7.2 percent in October for a total of 20,822 vehicles compared to 22,432 reported in the same month a year ago.

Monthly BMW brand sales reflect the dips that occur when high volume models undergo a structured changeover, with smaller numbers of the previous model and a gradual increase in availability of the new model.

All BMW 3 series models received new engines this fall and the company also introduced an all new 3 Series Coupe in September. In addition, BMW's Sports Activity Vehicles are receiving significant changes. An all-new 2007 X5 Sports Activity Vehicle will be introduced at the end of the month and a new 2007 X3 SAV is just arriving at dealerships. As a result of these introductions, inventories of these models have been kept low.

Continue reading "BMW Group Reports October Sales"

November 1, 2006

MINI USA Announces 2007 Pricing

All-New 2007 MINI Cooper and Cooper S Models Raise the Bar Again Offering Premium Features and Value

MINI USA announces pricing for the full 2007 MINI model line, including the eagerly awaited MINI Cooper and Cooper S models which are all-new from the ground up. The 2007 MINI models continue to define the premium small car segment and now offer more value than ever.

The all-new 2007 MINI Cooper has a Base Price of $18,050. With an adjusted Destination and Handling charge of $650, the MSRP is $18,700. The all-new 2007 MINI Cooper S comes in only $300 over the previous generation model. With a Base Price of $21,200 and a $650 Destination and Handling charge the Cooper S has a MSRP of $21,850.

Continue reading "MINI USA Announces 2007 Pricing"

October 20, 2006

A Mini manufacturing revolution

Being Flexibly Subtle In an Industry That Provides Little Wiggle Room

New York Times reporter Micheline Maynard today sheds light on the fiercely competitive nature of the auto industry as she examines the production process at Mini's Oxford, England assembly plant, where workers are pumping out the latest, slightly bigger size 2007/2008 model. "...It's almost impossible to tell the new Minis from the newer Minis," Maynard observed as she watched the models roll off the line.

But, she continues, "Is this version of the Mini different enough to keep its outsize buzz going for a second generation?" The answer seems to be yes as Mini, with a network of only 70 dealers, has sold more than 100,000 vehicles since returning to the U.S. with their new model in 1999.

At a time when many automakers are offering rebates from $3,000 and above, Mini has never had such discounts, said Maynard. What's more, Mini hundreds of customizable options for both the interior (372) and exterior (319) of the vehicle "has helped create an entirely new category of "personality"" small cars – catering to America's individualistic society, where different is cool. Along with a slightly bigger body, Mini is bringing to the U.S. via its new model six airbags, instead of four, and a new gas engine.

October 11, 2006

BMW, MINI Lead Brands in Strategic Vision's Total Value Survey

BMW and MINI led all brands in Total Value for 2006, according to the results of a new study released by market research firm Strategic Vision. The study surveyed over 64,000 new vehicle buyers who purchased their vehicles between October 2005 and March 2006, asking an extensive array of questions about their first 90 days of ownership.

Perennial value leader MINI Cooper leads its segment for the fifth year running, and was the Total Value winner among all vehicles and segments. The new Kia Optima and Hyundai Azera were Total Value leaders in their respective car segments, while the Kia Sedona topped the Honda Odyssey in the minivan category. Honda's Civic, Accord coupe, Pilot, and Ridgeline models all led their respective segments.

October 6, 2006

BMW Group Reports September Sales

Sales For First Three Quarters Up 2 Percent

The BMW Group in the U.S. (BMW and MINI brands combined) reported year-to-date sales of 229,833 vehicles, an increase of 2 percent over the 225,641 vehicles sold in the first three quarters of 2005. September sales were off 7 percent, with the Group reporting 23,303 vehicles over the 25,079 reported in 2005.

BMW brand sales were up 3 percent year-to-date, to 200,063 vehicles compared to 193,631 vehicles sold in the same period in 2005.

BMW brand sales were down 8 percent in September for a total of 20,339 vehicles compared to 22,052 reported in the same month a year ago.

BMW Automobile Sales
Sales of BMW brand automobiles were up 11 percent in the first three quarters of 2006, to 155,525 automobiles over 140,015 in the same period of 2005. Automobile sales dipped 2 percent in September to 15,275 cars versus 15,609 in the same month a year ago.

BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Sales
Sales of BMW Sports Activity Vehicles were down 21 percent in September, to 5,064 vehicles over the 6,443 sold in the same month last year, as BMW prepares to introduce its all-new X5 Sports Activity Vehicles later this year. The new X3 Sports Activity Vehicles just went on sale, too, and inventories of both brands are low as a result. Year-to-date, sales of BMW Sports Activity Vehicles were also off 17 percent, to 44,538 vehicles compared to the 53,616 sold in the same period in 2005.

Certified Pre-Owned
Sales of BMW's Certified Pre-Owned vehicles were up 3 percent, and the company reported its best September ever, with sales of 5,913 CPO vehicles versus 5,760 vehicles reported last year. Year-to-date, CPO sales were up 16 percent, to 64,042 over the 55,380 reported in the same period in 2005.

MINI Brand sales
MINI USA reported September sales of 2,964 automobiles, off 2 percent from the 3,027 cars sold last September. Year-to-date, the division reported sales of 29,770 automobiles, a drop of 7 percent, compared to the 32,010 cars reported in the first three quarters of 2005. The MINI factory in Oxford was closed for part of August in preparation for the new model year, resulting in extremely low inventories of MINI automobiles.

September 18, 2006

BMW tops in global sustainability

Munich -- In the automobile industry, the BMW Group is the world leader in corporate sustainability. This was the conclusion reached by the SAM Group in its current evaluation of the Dow Jones Sustainability Indexes (DJSI).

This means that the BMW Group has been able to successfully defend its number one position of last year, and makes it the only company in the sector to have been listed in the Dow Jones Sustainability Index World and in the European Dow Jones Sustainability STOXX Index without a break since the establishment of the Index in 1999. The volume of the financial assets managed according to these indexes is currently about five billion US dollars.

Continue reading "BMW tops in global sustainability"

September 10, 2006

BMW Group posts 3% August sales increase

The BMW Group in the U.S. (BMW and MINI brands combined) reported year-to-date sales of 206,530 vehicles, an increase of 3 percent over the 200,562 vehicles sold in the first eight months of 2005. The BMW Group also reported a decrease of 11 percent in August sales for 25,673 vehicles over the 28,879 vehicles reported in 2005.

BMW Brand Sales Increase in August
BMW brand sales were up 5 percent year-to-date, to 179,724 vehicles compared to 171,579 vehicles sold in the same period in 2005.

Sales of BMW brand vehicles dropped 12 percent in August for a total of 22,421 compared to 25,537 reported in the same month a year ago.

BMW Automobile Sales
Year-to-date, sales of BMW brand automobiles were up 13 percent to 140,250 automobiles compared to 124,406 in the same period of 2005. Automobile sales were off slightly in August to 17,053 versus 17,254 in the same month a year ago as the company managed inventory in advance of the launch of several new models, including the all-new 3 Series Coupe which is just arriving at dealerships.

BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Sales
Sales of BMW Sports Activity Vehicles were down 35 percent in August to 5,368 vehicles over the 8,283 sold last August. BMW will introduce an all-new X5 Sports Activity Vehicle and inventory of this model is deliberately low in preparation for the launch. Year-to-date, sales of BMW Sports Activity Vehicles were also off 16 percent, to 39,474 vehicles compared to the 47,173 sold in the same period in 2005.

Certified Pre-Owned [CPO]
Sales of BMW's Certified Pre-Owned vehicles were up 4 percent, and the company reported its best August ever with sales of 6,713 CPO vehicles versus 6,470 vehicles reported last year. Year-to-date, CPO sales were up 17 percent, to 58,129 over the 49,620 reported in the same period in 2005.

MINI Brand Automobiles
MINI USA reported August sales of 3,252 automobiles, down 11 percent from the 3,342 cars sold in August 2005. Year-to-date, the division reported sales of 26,806 automobiles, a drop of 8 percent, compared to the 28,983 cars reported in the first eight months of 2005.

September 2, 2006

All electric MINI Cooper

With the odd exception of some rather impractical and eccentric examples, today’s electric or hybrid electric vehicles substantially under perform when compared both with high performance gasoline cars and also with theoretical limits of electric drive systems. Why are major manufacturers not putting more emphasis on in-wheel electric drive systems?

As PML is a leader in high performance motor and drive system technology, we felt it time to demonstrate what really can be achieved today using the best technology available! Produced in conjunction with our partner Synergy Innovations, the car you see today is one of 2 vehicles and is the result of 8 months of intense effort following PML’s 4-year product development programme.

The MINI was chosen as the platform because of its broad appeal and iconic styling. However it is not a light vehicle and has limited space to integrate the substantial component set required for a top performance electric vehicle – if we can successfully convert this vehicle then most others should be easy by comparison!

Link.

August 22, 2006

More iPod support for More BMWs

BMW has a new iPod interface that supports all BMW and Mini models that were not supported by the company’s original in-car iPod solution.

The supported cars now include the BMW 5 Series, 6 Series and 7 Series. The iPod connects to a cable in the glove compartment, and is powered by the car rather than the iPod's battery.

Drivers can shuffle songs, skip between tracks and adjust volume via steering-wheel controls while the iPod remains safe in the glove box. BMW first added iPod support in June 2004.

Link.

August 16, 2006

BMW's well-endowed science scholarship

The BMW Group offers support worth EUR 70,000 to talented young researchers from all disciplines worldwide

Munich -- The BMW Group is inviting young academics from all over the world to submit their entries for the prize for up-and-coming scientists - the Scientific Award 2007. The motto of the award is "Passion for Innovation", and prizes are presented to the authors of outstanding Bachelor's, Master's and doctoral theses, regardless of their subject.

The 2007 Award, with prizes worth a total of EUR 70,000, will be the ninth in the series so far. The closing date for entries is 7 January 2007.

Continue reading "BMW's well-endowed science scholarship"

3,300 MINI owners are ready to rally

The 2006 MINI TransAmerican Motortastic Road Trip To End All Road Trips Rally

The MINI Takes the States rally kicks off in California following the 33rd Rolex Monterey Historic Automobile Races and ends 3,123 miles across the country at the Lime Rock Vintage Festival in Connecticut

More than 3,300 enthusiastic MINI owners nationwide will get behind the wheel for MINI Takes the States, a two-week cross country road trip open for MINI owners and enthusiasts. The road trip kicks off on August 21 at the Monterey Historic Automobile Races in Monterey, California and concludes on September 4 at the Lime Rock Vintage Festival in Lakeville, Connecticut.

When online registration closed, a total of 3,347 MINIs were registered for the drive, 175 of which signed up to travel the full length of the trip - from Monterey to Lime Rock. For the first leg from Monterey to Santa Barbara, CA, 754 have registered to participate. The most popular leg of the journey proved to be Jersey City, New Jersey to Lakeville, Connecticut, where nearly one thousand MINIs are expected to join the rally.

Continue reading "3,300 MINI owners are ready to rally"

First MINI customers getting John Cooper Works GP models at Monterey

32 Lucky Customers Sign up to Take Delivery of Limited-Production, High Performance Model at Event

Monterey, CA - MINI USA announces that 32 lucky customers will take advanced delivery of the first 2006 MINI Cooper S models with the John Cooper Works GP Kit (MINI GP) at the Rolex Monterey Historic Automobile Races at Laguna Seca Raceway. In a special delivery program hosted by MINI USA Vice President, Jim McDowell, owners will be presented with keys and will be able to drive off in their brand new MINI GP.

Continue reading "First MINI customers getting John Cooper Works GP models at Monterey"

Cooper Car featured marque at 33rd Monterey Automobile Races

Monterey, CA - The legendary Cooper Car Company is the featured marque at the 33rd Rolex Monterey Historic Automobile Races, August 18-20, 2006.

The Cooper Car Company, perhaps best well known by Mini enthusiasts, was founded in 1947 by Charles and John Cooper and left an indelible mark on the racing world. Its design innovations altered the face of such race series as Formula One and the Indianapolis 500 and their sedans excelled in rallying - most notably with the Mini Cooper S triple wins in the 1964, 65 and 67 Monte Carlo Rallies.

The Cooper Car Company started in a small garage in Surrey, England, and by the1960s the Cooper Car Company reached its peak as their rear-engine, single seat cars found multiple successes in Formula One events. And in doing so, they altered the face of the Indianapolis 500 and had such storied drivers as Sir Stirling Moss, Jack Brabham, Maurice Trintignant and Bruce McLaren in its ranks.

Continue reading "Cooper Car featured marque at 33rd Monterey Automobile Races"

August 14, 2006

MINI introducing the 2007 MINI Cooper

Here comes the first generation change since the start of a new era:

The new MINI is warming up to continue the outstanding success of its predecessor. Consistently enhanced and refined in design, the new MINI comes in a new look and boasts all-new drivetrain technology for even greater agility.

Due to enter the market in late 2006, the MINI Cooper is powered by a 1.6-litre normal-aspiration engine developing maximum output of 88 kW/120 hp, the MINI Cooper S comes with an even more powerful and dynamic 128 kW/175 hp turbocharged engine.

The "basic" version, the new MINI One, will be following in the first half of 2007, its 1.4-litre power unit developing maximum output of 70 kW/95 hp. And finally the range will be joined, also in the first half of 2007, by the new MINI Diesel featuring the most advanced and sophisticated turbodiesel technology.

Video: The new 2007 MINI Cooper

After the success of its original MINI, BMW is reintroducing the series beginning in late 2006 with the new MINI Cooper and MINI Cooper S. In the first half of 2007, the auto manufacturer will also rollout the new MINI One and the new MINI Diesel.

The MINI's first generation change includes an all-new interior design and a larger front section to abide with future pedestrian safety legislation. The new MINI also features several advanced safety features, including the new EPAS (Electric Power-Assisted Steering) and a tire defect indicator to constantly monitor air pressure.

August 9, 2006

Mini owners exclusive targets in ad campaign

Mini USA is launching a cryptic print advertising campaign, and only Mini Cooper owners will be able to solve the puzzles via a special mailing sent to all 150,000 U.S. Mini owners. Trudy Hardy, a marketing manager at parent company BMW, said, "We want to reward them for their passion for the brand and we are trying to treat them special."

Link.

August 8, 2006

BMW Worldwide sales grow by 5.7% in first seven months of 2006

With 800,931 BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce brand automobiles delivered to customers, sales of the BMW Group rose in the first seven months of 2006 by 5.7% compared with the same period last year (757,551).

Sales of the BMW brand through the end of July 2006 rose by 8.2% to 683,724 cars. All model series contributed to this success. The main driver of growth is still the BMW 3 Series with a rise in sales of 25.1% to 290,587 automobiles. The flagship of the BMW brand, the 7 Series, increased in the first seven months of 2006 by 16.4% to 29,072 units. As well the third core model series in the BMW brand, the 5 Series, was once again able to pass last year's high level (131,407 automobiles) by 3.3%, with sales reaching 135,704 units.

Continue reading "BMW Worldwide sales grow by 5.7% in first seven months of 2006"

August 1, 2006

BMW Group sales down 12% in July

The BMW Group, which includes BMW and MINI vehicles, sold 12% fewer vehicles in July 2006 than the year before.

For the year to date, BMW Group sales are still up 5.3%

The BMW brand itself was down 13.4% in July, with cars down 6.1% and SUVs trailing by 12.3%.

MINI sales were down 3.7% in July, and are down 8.1% for the year to date.

Press release after the jump.

Continue reading "BMW Group sales down 12% in July"

July 13, 2006

BMW says independence, not mergers, key to success

MUNICH, July 13 - Germany's BMW, on track for record car sales and earnings, says its independence is to thank for its status as the world's largest and most profitable premium carmaker.

BMW Chief Executive Helmut Panke warned that mergers and alliances such as a possible General Motors -Renault -Nissan link only provide short-term benefits at best.

"In the integration process, the brand's profile gets lost," Panke told reporters at a Wednesday evening event. The remarks were embargoed for Thursday.

"A lot of people ask us what the key to success is. BMW goes its own way. We are (so) profitable because we are independent."

Link.

July 7, 2006

The MINI Visa - Priceless Brand Affiliation

Not only can you get a Visa card from the Intergalactic bank of MINI, but you can also configure the image of the Coop on the card to either look like the one you own or the one you aspire to buy -- on credit of course.

Link.

July 5, 2006

BMW Group Reports Strong First-Half Sales

Year-to-Date BMW Group Sales up 8.6 Percent; June sales increase 2.7 Percent

The BMW Group in the U.S. (BMW and MINI brands combined) reported strong first-half sales of 157,246 vehicles, an increase of 8.6 percent, compared to 144,843 vehicles in the same period of 2005. The BMW Group also reported an increase of 2.7 percent in June sales for 27,735 vehicles over the 26,999 vehicles reported in June 2005.

BMW Brand Sales Increase in June

Sales of BMW brand vehicles rose 3.4 percent in June for a total of 24,179 compared to 23,392 reported in the same month a year ago.

Year-to-date BMW brand sales were up 11.7 percent, to 137,220 vehicles compared to 122,864 vehicles sold in first six months of 2005.

BMW Automobile Sales

BMW's automobile sales were up 12.8 percent in June to 19,695 versus 17,456 in the same month a year ago. Year-to-date sales also were up 18.8 percent, to 107,651 automobiles compared to 90,597 in the same period of 2005.

BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Sales

Sales of BMW Sports Activity Vehicles were down 24.5 percent in June to 4,484 vehicles over the 5,936 sold last May. Year-to-date, sales of BMW Sports Activity Vehicles were down 8.4 percent, to 29,569 vehicles compared to the 32,267 sold in the first six months of 2005.

Certified Pre-Owned

Sales of BMW's Certified Pre-Owned vehicles were up 16.5 percent, to 7,550 vehicles versus 6,483 vehicles reported last June, making it the best June ever. Year-to-date, CPO sales were up 22 percent, to 44,439 over the 36,412 reported in the same period in 2005.

MINI Brand

MINI USA reported June sales of 3,556 automobiles, off 1.4 percent from the 3,607 cars sold in June 2005. Year-to-date, the division reported sales of 20,026 automobiles, a drop of 8.9 percent, compared to the 21,979 cars reported in the first six months of 2005.

June 19, 2006

GM Leads Quality Survey Index Among New Owners

General Motors' vehicles captured five awards from new owners assessing the quality of their vehicles, according to a new survey published by Strategic Visions. The Chevy HHR won its small multi-function category, the Saturn Vue won small SUV, the Chevy Silverado won heavy duty pickup and the Corvette won two separate categories.

Toyota came in second with four wins, BMW and Honda three each; Chrysler Group had two. BMW repeated as the top scoring brand, the seventh time in eight years, and Volkswagen reemerged as the best full-line. Ford’s only win was significant, as its much-heralded Fusion took top honors in the medium car category.

Link to full PDF release.

June 4, 2006

MINI Sells 150,000 Cooper in U.S.

MINI USA sold its 150,000th MINI in the US to 21 year-old Ramon Aragon, who got himself a Pepper White MINI Cooper from the Sandia MINI in Albuquerque, NM.

MINI reports that Aragon, like most MINI customers, special-ordered his MINI Cooper from the factory, customizing his car with options that include a black roof and bonnet stripes, a Premium Package and the "Checkmate Package" that offers special interior trim and exterior checkerboard graphics. MINI says over 60% of customers uniquely configure the MINI they want and custom-order it from the factory. MINI owners add an average of $5,000 worth of factory and dealer installed options to customize their cars.

April 5, 2006

Italian Job Turbo Coaster Featuring the MINI Convertible

Paramount has taken the MINI cars from The Italian Job movie and turned it into a roller coaster, opening right about now.

According to the press release: "THE ITALIAN JOB TURBO COASTER is a high-speed stunt car adventure that combines Hollywood special effects with high tech coaster thrills. Guests board their very own tricked out MINI Cooper S for a multi-sensory stunt car adventure they will want to take again and again."

The coaster ride recreates the final chase sequence of the movie, with thrillseekers riding in a 75% scale replica of the MINI Cooper S convertible, that features a "power slide effect, which creates a fishtailing sensation."

Full press release after the jump. Click here to watch an animated simulation of the ride.

Continue reading "Italian Job Turbo Coaster Featuring the MINI Convertible"

April 4, 2006

BMW of North America Sold Strong in March

BMW of North America, including both the BMW and MINI brands, had a gangbusters month, with sales up 16.8%. For the year to date, sales are up 10.8%.

The big gains came from the BMW brand, with overall sales up 21.6% and car sales up 31%. Both the 3 Series [up 60.5%] and the 5 series sedans [up 26.8%] had strong results in March.

The MINI brand was down 6.7% in March, mostly due to a 19.7% drop in convertible volume, which should change over the next few months.

December 22, 2005

MINI Desktop "Decoy" Screensaver

This idea's been around awhile -- when you're goofing off, or want to step out of the office, having a "decoy" screensaver that makes it look like you have work on your screen is a handy tool for the chronically scamming.

The MINI screensaver takes two additional steps, though, that make it a worthwhile entry in the slacker's hall of fame. First, it has sound effects -- typing, pencil sharpening, paper shuffling, as well as coughing and throat clearing effects, in either male or female variants.

Then there's the fake head attachment, akin to the pillows under the covers, that make it look like your nose to the keyboard, grinding it out [see below]. To get to the screensaver download, you have to go to MINI's main site, then click on Motor On, and you'll see the link for the Desktop Decoy.

December 20, 2005

Car Buyer's Notebook Podcast #125: Let the Salesman Speak!

Now this is a brainstorm -- Car Buyer's Notebook is now accepting video and audio clip entries from car sales professionals, in which they describe a vehicle they sell -- and try to convince our audience that it is a "must buy."

Clips MUST be between 30 and 45 seconds long, and in the case of video, should show the salesperson either in front of or sitting inside the vehicle.

In order to enter, clips must be e-mailed to us at editor@carbuyersnotebook.com, and they MUST come from a recognizable dealership address and also include the dealer's phone number.

That's it. We're specifically are excluding dealer principals and/or managers. We want to hear from the sales people. Our goal is to give our audience a different, fun kind of content, to get the retail side of the industry involved and also, to show new vehicle salespeople in a light they don't often get to present themselves in. We're excited about this!

To listen to today's show, click here to play it directly on your computer.

Or you can subscribe to the daily Car Buyer's Notebook Podcast feed by putting this URL in your podcatching software: http://carbuyersnotebook.libsyn.com/rss

A Very MINI Christmas

Workers at the Oxford, England MINI plant gave themselves a nice Xmas present before going on holiday -- this pepper white MINI is the 200,000th vehicle to come off the line this calendar year.

MINI tells us the plant -- the only one that build the Cooper -- has built 766,290 vehicles since production began in April, 2001.

Having reached the milestone, workers are getting an extended Christmas break so the company can install improvements to the plant.

To get a price quote on a new MINI Cooper [we love the convertible] click here.

December 19, 2005

Free Vehicle Price Quote -- Car Buyer's Notebook Video Cast

To watch the video, right-click on this link and choose 'Save As.'

With auto sales down 14% in the beginning of December, now may be a great time to shop for a new vehicle. We'll show you how to get started by getting a new vehicle price quote at www.CarBuyersNotebook.com.

To watch the episode, you can right click on this link and choose "Save As," or, even better, you can get on the Apple iTunes bandwagon and subscribe to Zero to 120.

That way, your computer will automatically download a new episode when we publish!

To add Zero to 120 to your daily iTunes fix, add this RSS string to your iTunes or other podcatching software: http://carbuyersnotebookvideo.libsyn.com/rss

December 18, 2005

MINI Launches Accessory Line for Eurotrash

MINI has a new clothing and accessory line, which you can view at Mini_motion to make your own conclusion.

Look at this watch. Seriously, who would wear it? How about Euro-hipster drug dealers with greasy hair and tight, vintage blue jeans? Or guys from New Jersey with metrosexually-waxed eyebrows?

The jackets are less objectionable, but they veer dangerously close to Members Only fashion. You know, the jackets with the zippered breast pocket. We're waiting for the designer to unveil a silver lame jumpsuit.

You can tell this line is a dog by the retail stores carrying it -- NYC's Museum of Modern Art, which we have long referred to as a glorified poster shop, and the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art. When you can't get buzz or build a customer base on the merits of the product, work out a deal with these kind of museums and slap some phony chic cachet on it.

December 4, 2005

November Sales: BMW Group Up 11.3%

The BMW Group, which include the BMW brand and MINI cars, bucked the ups in November with an 11.3% increase compared to the same month last year. For the year to date, BMW Group is up 4.2%.

The BMW 5 and 7 series were top performers for BMW brand, with the 5 up 34.7% and the 7, up 42.7%. The Z4 also sold well, 599 units for a 89% increase.

BMW SUVs took a hit, down 33.8%, due to the 64.4% sales dip of the X3. For the year to date, BMW SUVs are down 1.1%, while cars are up 3.4%. As a whole, the BMW brand is up 2.2%

MINI had an unusual down month, selling only 3,171 Coopers compared to 3,363 last November. For the year to date, MINI is up 19.1%

Get a Free Vehicle Price Quote, Courtesy of Car Buyer's Notebook

The Internet has has clearly shifted the car buying equation in favor of the consumer.

Not only can you research any and all vehicles you may be interested in from the no-pressure environment of your computer, you can also get a free, no-obligation price quote onthe vehicle[s] of your choice, simply by using this form, which takes less than 2 minutes to complete.

Here's the way it works: by clicking on the icon above right, then filling out the form with your vehicle interest and contact info, the details are sent to new car dealers in your area. Nowadays, all car dealers have "Internet departments" whose job it is to respond to these "leads" and earn your business.

Long gone are the days where you wander into a dealership, just to look, and drive away an hour or so later with a vehicle you never knew you just had to have!

We strongly recommed new vehicle buyers utilize all the tools at their disposal, and we are proud to be working with the biggest and most trusted provider of vehicle price quotes in the industry. If you have any questions about how this tool works -- or even any hesitation -- please feel free to contact us via e-mail.

We feel so strongly about both the tool and the service, that for the first time we're publishing our direct telephone number: 703-236-1846. If we can help you in any way, feel free to call [during reasonable hours, of course!]

Cordially,
Frank Giovinazzi,
Publisher, Car Buyer's Notebook

November 28, 2005

Detroit Auto Show News

If you're looking for some juicy, in-depth information on what's happening at the Detroit Auto Show, get it straight from the source -- they put out a monthly newsletter, ShowTalk, and the November issue is 12 pages full of up to the minute announcements.

If you really want to be an insider, you can get ShowTalk, plus news flashes from the organizers via e-mail. To sign up, send your e-mail address to naiasmail@dada.org. Use ShowTalk/NAIAS News Flash as the subject line.

As for product releases for Detroit, here's the list so far [pictured above-right is the Mazda RX-8 hydrogen car.]:

Production vehicles
BMW Z4 M Roadster
Cadillac Escalade ESV
Cadillac Escalade EX
Ford Shelby GT500 convertible
Hyundai Santa Fe
Jaguar XK convertible
Lincoln Aviator
Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder
Mercedes-Benz
Nissan Versa
Kia Optima
Volkswagen Passat wagon

Concept vehicles
Hyundai HCD-9
Mini Traveller
Volvo Honda FCX
Mazda RX-8 [hydrogen powered]
Mazda5 hybrid
Subaru B5-TPH

August 1, 2005

MINI Ice Cream Truck, Big PR Stunt

Dreyer's ice cream has a bite-sized product called Dibs, so they commissioned Canyon Motors to make them a bite-sized ice cream truck -- get it?

Canyon took a stock MINI and pimped it out, Good Humor-man style. The Dreyer MINI has two flat panel TVs, a Mac Mini, iPod Mini docking station, touch screens, wireless internet, an exterior Web cam and a freezer drawer that slides out of the back via remote control.

The MINI ice cream truck is on tour this summer, making stops in 10 cities.

April 3, 2005

MINI Convertible Selling Wild in Mild Weather

When MINI first came to the U.S. three years ago they pulled off some great marketing gimmicks and shot off to a strong start.

But how many cars could what is essentially a one-vehicle brand actually sell off the lots? [MINI is owned by BMW.]

Surpisingly, MINI sales keep climbing, and while the numbers are small compared to broad platform companies, this nichemobile is still gaining fans that are voting with their cash.

Continue reading "MINI Convertible Selling Wild in Mild Weather"

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