New MINI debuts

Much more than just a refresh, the new Mini features all-new vehicle architecture, evolutionary exterior and interior design and a range of new fuel-efficient engines.

An investment of  $750 million (AU$1.296 billion) across three BMW Group UK manufacturing facilities was announced in line with the launch of the new Mini at the Oxford assembly plant, which celebrated its 100th anniversary this year.

The upgrades included a new 1,000-robot body shop at Plant Oxford, the debut of new technologies at the steel body pressings operation in Swindon, and new machining and assembly facilities to produce a new generation of three and four-cylinder engines at the Hams Hall engine plant near Birmingham.

UK Prime Minister David Cameron said: "I was lucky enough to get an early preview of the new Mini - a classic British icon - during a visit to the factory in Oxford last month. This $750 million investment is great news for both the local and wider economy, along with the 5,500 workers whose jobs are safeguarded by this launch.

In an interesting comparison to the Australian government's stance on our car industry, Cameron continued with the following statement on the importance of the UK auto manufacturing industry.

"Car manufacturing is a vital engine for growth. Production is back up to pre-recession levels and a car rolls off the line every 20 seconds in the UK. But we're not complacent. Our industrial strategy is a key part of the Government's economic plan and we're helping to drive the car industry further and faster with over $4bn (AU$6.91bn) of investment."

Despite looking externally similar, the new MINI is completely new from the ground up, in an effort to optimise its styling, function and performance. With its (UK) market launch in the first half of 2014, the new car offers an enhanced standard specification, an extensive range of options, higher comfort levels, comprehensive safety technology, including pedestrian protection, and more innovative networking technology.

Longer and wider than its predecessor, the new model provides more interior space for both the driver and passengers. Extensively revised suspension technology, reduced weight and increased rigidity have intensified the typical MINI go-kart driving experience.

Commenting on the new model, Peter Schwarzenbauer, BMW Group's board member for MINI, BMW Motorrad, Rolls-Royce, Aftersales BMW Group said: "MINI is an inspiration for trend-setters and creative spirits the world over. And with our latest generation of MINI Hatch, we want to excite once again. To ensure the new generation of MINI Hatch is as successful as its predecessors, we have made just subtle modifications to its design. But beneath the outer skin is a brand-new car with state-of-the-art technologies seen for the first time at a small car".