BMW dealers are to be offered a chance to sell the new Mini in a move that will clearly position the car away from Rover and as a separate brand within the Group.
The wealthy Thames Valley region spreading from Marlborough in the west to the Essex estuary covers the traditional stockbroker belts of Surrey, Berkshire and South Buckinghamshire. It is Ford's own country, the carmaker employs thousands in the region, so it's hardly surprising that Thames outperforms national sales. The surprise though is the appearance of BMW in the top 10.
The European Commission is next week expected to announce an investigation into the UK Government's planned £152m aid package for BMW's Rover Birmingham plant.
BMW is confident the 3 Series Touring will rapidly gain ground on its main rivals, Audi's A4 Avant and Mercedes-Benz C-class estate, which have consistently outperformed the estate.
BMW is bullish about diesel prospects after launching the 320d at £21,345 - £22,645 in SE trim.
