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The iconic Mini has already captured the fancy of drivers the world over. Now BMW has just announced plans to roll out new models of Mini Coopers. Just what is it about the Mini fans just can’t get enough of and what is BMW doing to ensure the love affair never ends?

The Mini Cooper has been available in the US for over a decade, but the Mini’s history goes back over 50 years. The Mini was developed as a small, affordable and nicely fuel-efficient vehicle big enough for a family of four. It wildly exceeded expectations by becoming something of a cultural phenomenon.

In addition to being a popular passenger car, the Mini proved itself 100 percent on the international road rally circuit. The transverse engine and the wheels at the corners made for exceptional handling and balance. The 1960s saw three Monte Carlo Rally wins in addition to numerous other first place finishes. Not only was the Mini fast and nimble, but it could also function well as a workhorse. Pickup and station wagon versions were known for their dependability and durability.

The Mini’s cheeky style, great handling and ability to be easily customized made it the darling of the automotive world – a status today’s Mini Cooper still very much enjoys.

BMW bought Mini in 1994 and never looked back. Now almost 30 years later, BMW has invested $387 million in the manufacture of the Mini and is planning on unveiling up to 10 new models in the near future. Some of these new models are clearly influenced by BMW, including features such as a steering wheel much like that found in the BMW 1-Series and the BMW iDrive-based infotainment system.

While bits of BMW may have found their way into the interior of the new Minis, BMW board member Harold Krueger reaffirmed the Mini’s British heritage naming Oxford – the location of one of three Mini manufacturing plants – as, “the home and heart of the Mini.” Even so, an increased demand for the popular vehicle may see manufacturing contracted out to a specialty manufacturer in the Netherlands to supplement the existing Oxford, Swindon and Birmingham facilities.

The current Mini lineup includes the Hardtop, Coupe, Convertible, Roadster, Clubman, Countryman and John Cooper Works. There are also special and limited editions, as well as a build-your-own option with over 10 million different possible design combinations. Customizable, indeed!

Mini is still mum on any details about the upcoming new modelr, with the exception of the 2013 Clubvan, the compact delivery van and the 2013 Paceman, a two-door coupe. Whatever the other new models bring, there seems to be no end in sight to the Mini’s broad appeal and international popularity.

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