Gość: Marek
IP: 172.18.118.*
14.03.02, 15:19
The first new auto franchise to open in the U.S. in the 21st Century is the BMW-
owned and British-built Mini Cooper – going into business March 22 at 70
exclusive new dealerships. The Mini is a retro subcompact not unlike the Austin-
descended Chrysler PT Cruiser. It will emerge in two model types – a standard
Mini Cooper priced from $16,850 and a revved-up Mini Cooper S at $19,850.
Standard equipment includes a six-speaker CD stereo, with luxo options
including heated seats and, for $200, a Union Jack painted on the roof. Seeking
to enter the entry-level luxo market cautiously, BMW will build them in England
at Oxford and will limit U.S. allocations to about 20,000 cars a year. Dealers
report thousands of sold orders, with 50,000 inquiries already received on
Mini’s website. Sales of the Mini’s two main rivals – the PT Cruiser and the
Volkswagen New Beetle, have slowed this year, prompting a $1000 rebate on the
Cruiser. — Mac Gordon
