When you get a new MINI vehicle in Minnetonka, who are you actually buying from? Does BMW make MINI Cooper and, if so, is a MINI Cooper a BMW? Yes, it’s true that MINI Cooper is owned by Bayerishe Moteren Werke AG, known colloquially as BMW. Motorwerks MINI explores the history and structure of MINI ownership for Golden Valley drivers below!
Is MINI Cooper Made by BMW?: A MINI History
Does this mean that there’s a “BMW MINI Cooper”? Not really. The Munich-based brand has ownership of MINI, and BMW genuine oil is used in MINI Cooper oil changes, but these vehicles constitute their own separate brands and are made in countries other than Germany. Here’s some fun highlights on the story of MINI.
- The First MINI: MINI actually begins as a model name for the Austin Mini and the Morris Mini, sold by the British automaker Leyland. It started as a brand in 1969, with the Rover Group (formerly BL).
- When BMW Bought MINI: In 1996, BMW purchased MINI and began working on introducing this iconic vehicle to the world in whole new light. It did so with the new model in 2001.
St Louis Park drivers may recognize a MINI vehicle not just for its distinct design, but also for the MINI flag with the Union Jack adorning its logo. This is one major clue to unlocking the diverging histories of BMW and MINI.
BMW and MINI Cooper: Innovations
Many Minneapolis car-lovers know the iconic two-door hatchback that MINI made famous. After BMW bought MINI, it’s pushed for innovations in terms of vehicle class and type, resulting in some exciting cars like:
- MINI Hardtop 2 Door and 4 Door
- MINI Countryman
- MINI Countryman PHEV
- MINI Clubman
- MINI Convertible
- John Cooper Works
These vehicles are manufactured both in Britain and the Netherlands. And of course, the brand keeps innovating. New hybrid designs and tons of special-edition MINI vehicles are revealed all the time.
Drive a MINI Cooper Today!
Now you know what to say if someone asks you, “Who owns MINI Cooper?”. At Motorwerks MINI, we’re proud to introduce Golden Valley drivers to the wonderful world of MINI Cooper vehicles. Find them among our vehicle specials and our stock of Certified Pre-Owned vehicles, and take them out for a test drive! Contact us today to find out more.
