To all who see cars on lots and on websites: don't be so sure that they are available. As the original post pointed out, many of those cars already have deposits on them. I'm not saying that every TDI in the country is spoken for by any means - just that the number actually available is probably less that it appears at a casual glance.

It seems to me that they should also be addressing the mpg vs. gpm issue (http://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/06/20/forget-mpg-lets-move-to-gpm/) while they're on the subject.

If Maserati's 85 locations wouldn't be enough, then how would MINI's 82 locations be enough? I wonder if it might be more a matter of geographic distribution of the dealers?

To follow on JayP's comment, Crispin Porter & Bogusky did a MINI ad with a motion sickness bag in 2003. The bag read:

"Let's not mess up the interior" it says. "Let's make clickety-clak sounds as we climb to the top. Let's remember to keep our hands and feet inside the ride at all times. Let's spin round and round and round 'til the guy in the back just can't stomach it anymore. Let's motor."

Here is the only photo I have found online:
http://www.mamud.com/airsicknessbags/images/mini.jpg

The Gladiator concept is ok, but I prefer the spartan ruggedness of the JT Wrangler Concept. I have a truck for chores, not for comfort and luxury. I want wind up windows, manual levers, and simple/rugged interior. And I also agree with the comment about using a small diesel. However, the right uni-body construction vehicle might just do the trick for me. Point is, YES, small trucks need to come back. For now, looks like I just have to keep my '92 Ranger running a while longer.

@Todd: Does it come? (When you 'here' it?) :P

Looks nice. I'll take one, thanks!

For the record, you CANNOT find a MINI at a BMW dealership (unless it is pre-owned). You can only buy a new MINI from a MINI dealership. Of course, you needed to have a BMW franchise in order to qualify for a MINI franchise, which is why you'll often find them next door to one another - but the dealership networks are separate and distinct by BMW requirement.

Still, no matter how logical the argument, this is unfortunate news. I'd much rather have a cinquecento than a SMART.

I want to Wiin!

a comment.