Happy 10 year anniversary, Mini

In 2002, the first U.S. Mini dealership opened in San Francisco. With only one model and a gallon of gas selling for an average of $1.25, there were plenty of critics who said the Mini brand didn't stand a chance in the States.

"Mini launched in the U.S. during the time when gas was cheap and large trucks and SUVs ruled the road," said Jim McDowell, Vice President of Mini USA in a statement. "Many thought the brand would be a one-hit wonder, and we are extremely proud that we were able to surprise some the toughest critics, and at times, even ourselves."

Now, ten years later, Mini has six models, gas prices have more than tripled and "small car" doesn't necessarily mean "cheap car." It's safe to say those naysayers in 2002 made a big mistake about the premium small car from BMW.

So, happy birthday, Mini USA, and congrats on convincing an SUV-loving American public that bigger is not always better.

http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/23/h...iversary-mini/

 

Man, 10 years already? Time flys. I am gald to see Mini has been sucessful.

 

Damn I can't believe it either, its been 10 years since they introduced them?! lol it's been very popular around SoCal tho!

 

funny to think it wasn't even till around 3 years ago that we saw more Mini models than just the cooper and its vert. Now we have a roadster, wagon, coupe, and CUV