The MINI is sold through an independent MINI dealer network in over 70 countries around the world. Many of its members already enjoy a long-standing cooperation with the BMW Group as BMW dealers.

The MINI is the direct successor to Sir Alec Issigonis' 1959 classic, which was produced until 2000. The new generation adds state-of-the-art technology, modern levels of safety, quality and reliability to traditional MINI values, such as optimum interior space within compact exterior dimensions. Driving fun was, of course, also a key criterion when developing the MINI product range: with its long wheelbase, short overhangs and low centre of gravity, MINI is a byword for unadulterated go-kart feeling. The launch of the MINI Cabrio in 2004 continued this philosophy, with the same outstanding design, the same characteristic proportions, the same excellent agility, the same functional flexibility, the same space-saving cleverness. In short: the same MINI under a different roof. The 2nd generation MINI Cabrio models hit the market in 2009, offering even more unique open-air driving thrills. The MINI Clubman takes this phenomenon to new levels. As with its historic predecessors the Austin Mini Countryman, the Morris Minor Traveller and the Mini Clubman Estate, it represents a remarkable realisation of the "shooting brake" concept (modified coupé fitted with an estate-like rear) – rounded off with astounding levels of customisation and typically unrivalled driving thrills. A brand-new type of MINI − larger, more versatile and anything but run-of-the-mill − was unveiled in 2010: the MINI Countryman. Never before have five people been able to have so much fun on four wheels. With its off-road abilities, the new MINI Countryman combines go-kart feeling with a crossover concept for the very first time. In short, the MINI Countryman is the perfect car to get away from the drudgery of everyday life.

The MINI was a truly European development, with design and engineering taking place in UK and Germany.

The MINI is built to the stringent BMW Group quality standards at the BMW Group plant in Oxford, England.

MINI has its unique position on the small-car market. It offers class-leading technology (for example in terms of safety) compared to other small cars as well as high levels of agility and style.

In recent years, the official MINI CHALLENGE races series, which features specially developed, extra-racy MINI, have been held in Germany, New Zealand and Australia. The series is, of course, taking place in 2010, too. Since 2002, the John Cooper Challenge has been held in the United Kingdom, with two racing locations also in France. Since 2004, there have also been events in Belgium, Germany, Russia, the Middle East and Switzerland. No plans have been made so far for starting any rallying activities.

The MINI John Cooper Works CHALLENGE is, quite simply, the fastest MINI made so far. Intended for track use only, this high-performance MINI with full racing spec is guaranteed to set the adrenaline pumping. Please note: The MINI John Cooper Works CHALLENGE is not available from MINI dealerships.

The most prominent MINI event is MINI United, a racing and partying bonanza that extends over several days and attracts thousands of MINI fans from all over the world. The first event of this type took place in 2005 at the Santa Monica race track in Misano (Italy), and was followed two years later by three days of on- and off-track thrills at Circuit Park Zandvoort in Amsterdam. The most recent event took place on 22-24 May 2009 in the United Kingdom. Click below to check out the MINI United page on Facebook − with all the facts, tracks and drivers.

Yes. Applications should be sent in writing to: Plant Tours, Communications Dept., BMW Group Plant Oxford, Cowley, Oxford, OX4 6NL, United Kingdom.

The MINI is a successor to the classic Mini, which first appeared in 1959. MINI Cooper was launched in 2001, with the MINI Cooper S and the MINI Cabrio models following in 2002 and 2004 respectively. The 2nd generation MINI Cooper and MINI Cooper S, with more powerful engines than their predecessors, a revamped design and a wealth of new features, were launched in autumn 2006. The MINI line-up was extended further in autumn 2007 with the launch of the MINI Clubman. This stunning combination of design, customisation and agility is now available in two variants in the Middle East( MINI Cooper Clubman and MINI Cooper S Clubman). In summer 2008, two more 'serial thrillers' took to the streets: the MINI John Cooper Works and the MINI John Cooper Works Clubman. This came about as a result of BMW taking over John Cooper Works, the long-standing tuning partner, in early 2007. These two models were the first MINI fitted with John Cooper Works performance parts to roll off the series production line at the Plant Oxford manufacturing facilities. The line-up was expanded in 2009 to include the MINI John Cooper Works Cabrio. The 2nd generation MINI Cooper Cabrio and MINI Cooper S Cabrio hit the road in 2009. With their "grown-up" design, high-performance engines, range of body/soft top colours and reinforced safety features, they raise the bar even further as regards unique al fresco driving thrills. In mid-2010, a brand-new type of MINI was unveiled: the MINI Countryman. The first MINI with ALL4 four-wheel drive, four doors and four seats − and it's four metres long, too. The MINI Countryman combines all-wheel-driven go-kart feeling with the lowest CO2 emissions in its class.

A full range of top-quality MINI lifestyle accessories is available in the online shop. Lifestyle accessories are also available from MINI dealers.