Mini Sold Out In U.S., Reports AutoWeek

Andrew Stoy — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 15:20:00 EDT

According to AutoWeek, U.S. Mini dealers are down to a one-day supply of vehicles, and the factory doesn't see any near-term way to alleviate the shortage. So far this year, Mini sales are up 33.6%, resulting in a total depletion of the company's in-stock vehicles. While the factory is cranking out approximately 800 cars a day, the magazine says they're just keeping up with pre-ordered vehicles at this point. We like to take any "sold-out" news with the obligatory grain of salt; as such, we decided to take a quick look at some dealer websites in an attempt to find a Mini for sale.

Using three different zip codes from three different parts of the country (two major cities and Kansas City), we found that our metro Detroit Mini dealer had zero vehicles in stock; an ominous sign. However, an Atlanta dealership had ten in stock, but four of them were high-dollar JCW editions. Still, they count. Finally, our friendly KC-area dealer had a whopping 19 Minis in stock, but a big note at the top of the inventory page stating:

Our MINI's are Going Fast and Many of Our Cars are Already Spoken For - Call Now to Check for Availability!

So, sold out? Maybe not quite yet. But if you've got your eye on a Mini, it sounds like you'd be wise to act now or be ready to wait. [AutoWeek]

BMW Plans To Challenge $2,500 Car In India With $49,000 Mini

Matt Hardigree — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 13:45:00 EDT

When Indian carmaker Tata made international headlines with their $2,500 Tata Nano other automakers took notice. One of those automakers is BMW, which already has a growing sales operation in India. Wanting to get a slice of the small car market, the company is considering bringing over the Mini. The projected cost? No less than Rs.2 million, or $49,444. This would make it the most expensive small car in the country at a cost equivalent to 20 Nanos.

The company currently sells nearly a full line of BMW vehicles, including M products. Last year the company sold 1,387 units, including about 743 3-series. A feasibility report has been submitted and it'll be up to the company's management to decide whether or not the Mini will actually reach India. If it does we hope they remember to delete the Union Jack roof option. [Economic Times India]

Jalopnik: bmw mini

Mini Sold Out In U.S., Reports AutoWeek

BMW Plans To Challenge $2,500 Car In India With $49,000 Mini