MINI continues its tradition of community support with the 2026 ‘Mile of MINI’ annual charity road rally, now championing the important work of the STOP.BREATHE.THINK charity organisation. Taking place on 26th April, this year’s event saw a vibrant convoy of MINIs—spanning all eras, colours and models—travel from MINI Plant Oxford, the home of the brand, to MINI UK HQ in Farnborough.

STOP.BREATHE.THINK, the rally’s chosen charity for 2026, is dedicated to supporting children and young people facing mental health challenges. The organisation provides resources, direct support, and safe spaces for young people to pause, reflect, and seek help when navigating difficult emotional experiences. By partnering with STOP.BREATHE.THINK, MINI aims to help raise awareness and funds for vital mental health initiatives, making a tangible difference to young lives across the UK.

As is always the case, the team at MINI Plant Oxford showcased some of their special models from the award-winning on-site exhibition. This year’s event featured some highlights such as the MINI XXL, which is based on a 2004 MINI Cooper but stretched to a whopping 6.3 metres and includes six wheels and a hot-tub at the rear. The striking Dsquared² Red Mudder also made an appearance, which features rugged front bull bars and rally lights, located behind the front guard as well as on the roof. It also features black wheel arches, a roof rack and tinted side windows, as well as a spare tyre on the boot. These, together with its raised chassis and deep-tread all-terrain tyres ensure this MINI stands out from the crowd.

The 1 millionth BMW Group-era MINI was also on display for guests to enjoy. The car rolled off the production line at MINI Plant Oxford in April 2007, marking a remarkable milestone in the brand’s modern history. The colour of the landmark MINI Cooper S is Pepper White with a specially developed paint for the roof and wheels, Almond Green, accentuated by a graphic extending onto the bonnet which features over one million MINI Cooper outlines making up the bonnet stripe. The interior matches the roof with leather seats, steering wheel and gearknob all in Almond Green leather.

Upon arrival at MINI UK HQ, the convoy lined up for a spectacular display before the grand total of over £9,500 raised for STOP.BREATHE.THINK was announced. This equates to 300 counselling sessions for children and young people with poor mental health.

MINI Plant Oxford, renowned as one of the world’s oldest continuously operating automotive facilities, has been manufacturing vehicles since 1913. It stands at the forefront of technological innovation and sustainable practices in car production.

For more information on The Italian Job or STOP.BREATHE.THINK and their work, please visit italianjob.com or stopbreathethink.org.uk.

Ends


The BMW Group

With its four brands, BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial services. The BMW Group production network comprises over 30 production sites worldwide; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2025, the BMW Group sold 2.46 million passenger vehicles and more than 202,500 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2025 was € 10.2 billion on revenues amounting to € 133,5 billion. As of 31 December 2025, the BMW Group had a workforce of 154,540 employees.

The economic success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. Sustainability is a key element of the BMW Group’s corporate strategy and covers all products – from the supply chain through production to the end of their useful life. 

www.bmwgroup.com

LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/bmw-group/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/bmwgroup

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bmwgroup

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bmwgroup

 

MINI Press Office Contacts:

Sam Buckingham
MINI Press Officer
Tel: 07815 362262
Email: Samuel.Buckingham@mini.co.uk

James Morrison
Head of Product Communications
Tel: 07815 372 646
Email: James.Morrison@bmw.co.uk

Christina Burnham-Hepe
Corporate Communications Director
Tel: 07815 371206
Email: Christina.Burnham-Hepe@bmw.co.uk

Media website:
www.press.bmwgroup.co.uk
www.mini.co.uk
www.twitter.com/miniuk
www.facebook.com/miniuk
www.youtube.com/miniuk

BMW Group UK strengthens its industry-leading in-car entertainment experience this spring with the integration of popular streaming platform, ITVX, directly into operating system of BMW and MINI vehicles. Meanwhile, the critically acclaimed BMW iX3 was named Best SUV by Top Gear at the title’s 2026 Electric Awards, before securing a further title at the Great British Fleet Awards. Also celebrated by Fleet World, was the BMW 7 Series, which retains its status as Best Fleet Luxury Car for a second year. A further gong was received by MINI, as the MINI John Cooper Works was crowned Piston Hot Hatch of the Year by automotive YouTube channel, Buckle Up.

ITVX now available to stream in over 250,000 BMW and MINI vehicles.
BMW Group today expands its comprehensive portfolio of third-party applications available via the built-in BMW and MINI app stores with the integration of the popular streaming platform, ITVX.

Launching first in BMW and MINI vehicles, the new ITVX in-car app will enable over 250,000 BMW and MINI owners to tune in to their favourite ITV dramas, entertainment series and blockbusters from the comfort of their car¹ via the built-in infotainment system². Compatible models include the trailblazing BMW iX3 and the newly announced BMW 7 Series, where passengers benefit from an unparallelled on-the-move entertainment experience via the first-ever BMW Passenger Display and the enhanced rear BMW Theatre Screen, now with DOLBY ATMOS for the ultimate cinematic spectacle.

BMW iX3 named Best SUV at Top Gear’s Electric Awards 2026. 
Since its unveiling last year, the trailblazing BMW iX3 has garnered widespread industry acclaim, including being selected as Top Gear’s 2026 Car of the Year. Continuing its winning streak, the first Neue Klasse model impressed Top Gear judges yet again, securing the top spot as Best SUV at the title’s Electric Awards.

The accolade comes following a stunt by the Top Gear team, who drove the BMW iX3 across the full width of England – from Lowestoft to Land’s End – on a single charge, arriving at the country’s most westerly point with miles in reserve. Commenting on the win, Top Gear said: “BMW’s big investment has paid off. The iX3 is a bona fide range champ. We ran out of England before it ran out of charge.”

Designed specifically for the Neue Klasse, the BMW iX3 was the first model to premiere BMW Group’s sixth-generation eDrive technology, which comprises highly efficient electric motors, new high-voltage batteries with cylindrical cells, and 800-volt technology to set new benchmarks in efficiency and long-distance capability. In the case of the BMW iX3 50 xDrive, the result is an impressive single-charge range of up to 500 miles (WLTP³).

Double success for BMW UK at the Fleet Awards.
Now in its seventh year, the Great British Fleet Awards celebrate innovation across the fleet industry, recognising cutting‑edge innovation as well as products and services that help operators run safer, greener and more cost‑effective fleets.

At this year’s ceremony, the BMW iX3 was named Best EV Large SUV, with judges praising its “latest battery cell technology, weight saving construction” and BMW’s “intense focus on improving energy efficiency.” With this latest recognition, the first Neue Klasse model adds a fifth accolade to its 2026 tally.

Also acknowledged on the night was the BMW 7 Series, which retains its title as Best Fleet Luxury Car for the second consecutive year. Reinforcing the 7 Series’ status as the ultimate luxury saloon, judges commended the model for “redefining the flagship experience” through its combination of “unparalleled rear-seat luxury” and a “sophisticated approach to electrification.” The 750e xDrive derivative received additional praise, as the jury named it “the standout choice,” thanks to its impressive all-electric range and “competitive benefit in-kind rating.” In summary, Fleet World describe the 7 Series as “a technological tour de force beyond the tax advantages.”

MINI John Cooper Works awarded Piston Hot Hatch of the Year by Buckle Up.
The MINI John Cooper Works (JCW) recently added another trophy to its cabinet, after it collected Buckle Up’s Piston Hot Hatch of the Year award.

Handing over the trophy, Buckle Up said: “In an era where hot hatches are disappearing, the MINI JCW continues to deliver genuine fun, sharp handling, and character in a compact package. It remains one of the last great internal combustion hot hatches.”

The MINI JCW is part of the MINI JCW model family, which successfully delivers high-performance thrills across a variety of body styles and with the choice of combustion or all-electric powertrains. Regardless of the chosen drive train, all MINI JCW models offer signature go-kart handling alongside exclusive, aerodynamically optimised design features.


Ends


1. Drivers can enjoy ITVX content via the central infotainment display when their vehicle is safely parked. Passengers can tune in on the move when the vehicle is specified with either the BMW Passenger Display or the rear BMW Theatre Screen.
2. Data required for streaming ITVX content is included as part of the connectivity provided by a BMW Digital Premium or MINI Connected Package subscription.
3. WLTP energy consumption combined: 17.9 - 15.1 kWh/100 km; WLTP CO₂ emissions combined: 0 g/km; CO2-class: A; WLTP electric range:  421 – 500 miles.


The BMW Group

With its four brands, BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial services. The BMW Group production network comprises over 30 production sites worldwide; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2025, the BMW Group sold 2.46 million passenger vehicles and more than 202,500 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2025 was € 10.2 billion on revenues amounting to € 133,5 billion. As of 31 December 2025, the BMW Group had a workforce of 154,540 employees.

The economic success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. Sustainability is a key element of the BMW Group’s corporate strategy and covers all products – from the supply chain through production to the end of their useful life. 

www.bmwgroup.com

LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/bmw-group/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/bmwgroup

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bmwgroup

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bmwgroup


For further information please contact:

Sam Buckingham
Press Officer, MINI
Tel: 07815 362 262
Samuel.Buckingham@mini.co.uk

Tom Evans
Senior Press Officer, BMW
Tel: 07815 371 705
Email: Tom.Evans@bmw.co.uk

James Morrison
Head of Product Communications
Tel: 07815 372 646
Email: James.Morrison@bmw.co.uk

Christina Burnham-Hepe
Corporate Communications Director
Tel: 07815 371 206
Email: Christina.Burnham-Hepe@bmw.co.uk

BMW Group UK maintains its momentum heading into the final quarter of the year having collected a variety of industry accolades. Celebrated for its class-leading product lineup, benchmark fleet management and gold-standard UK manufacturing operations, the company continues to set the standard across various sectors.

All-new BMW iX3 honoured as Carwow’s Tech Trailblazer .
Premiering a broad spectrum of innovations and new technologies, the all-new BMW iX3 was honoured as Carwow’s Tech Trailblazer at the publication’s annual Car of the Year Awards. Judges were impressed with the SAV’s advancements, with Mat Watson, Chief Content Officer at Carwow, commenting, “Most new cars barely nudge at the needle of progress, but the new BMW iX3 pushes it so far along that it’s basically tied itself into a knot. Its sophisticated underpinnings offer hyper-fast charging, a massive battery allowing over 500 miles of range and a minimalist but rich digital experience.”

Arriving as the first series-produced Neue Klasse model, the BMW iX3 marks a significant milestone for BMW Group in the company’s journey towards enhanced electrification, digitalisation and circularity. “The new BMW iX3 is a car to get excited about, not just for what it is, but for what it represents - the march of progress.” Watson continued.

BMW 7 Series named Best Luxury Car for the third consecutive year at the Parkers New Car Awards 2026.
Now in its ninth year, the Parkers New Car Awards reflect the ever-changing needs of Britain’s car-buying public, where winners are selected based on a combination of expert reviews and consumer purchasing trends. Following this year’s ceremony, the BMW 7 Series continues its reign as Parkers’ Best Luxury Car, leading the category for the third consecutive year.

Introduced in 2022, the latest-generation BMW 7 Series continues to demonstrate why it is regarded as the ultimate luxury saloon, combining “comfort, innovation and sophistication” to portray the “ultimate expression of modern luxury.” Parkers judges paid tribute to the model’s “class, comfort and poise” alongside its versatility – offering “masses of appeal for businesses, drivers and, most importantly, the VIP in the back.”

Triple victory for BMW Group UK at the Auto Express Used Car Awards.
Auto Express recently announced its favourite used cars for 2025, where the BMW 3 Series was crowned overall Used Car of the Year. Utilising the industry-leading Driver Power survey, the annual awards help customers identify the best used cars across a range of categories.

In addition to claiming the headline accolade, the BMW 3 Series also topped the Best Compact Executive Car category, “proving it’s a car that has everything”, said Paul Barker, Editor of Auto Express. “It drives well, is practical and well-equipped and best answers the question where Auto Express team would spend their own money.” With its diverse lineup of powertrains and body styles, “From efficient diesels to hybrids or high-power petrol models, and saloon or Touring estate, there’s a 3 Series for everyone,” he added.

The MINI Convertible was also firm favourite, retaining its position as Best Used Convertible. Auto Express’ “champion drop-top” impressed with its “cheeky looks and great handling.” It’s a car “that easily puts a smile on your face,” Barker concluded.

BMW 3 Series awarded Premium Used Car of the Year at Motor Trader Industry Awards.
Adding a further award to its cabinet, the BMW 3 Series was unveiled as Premium Used Car of the Year at the annual Motor Trader Industry Awards. The judging panel described the BMW 3 Series as “the ‘gold standard’ for affordable, driver-focused transport in the premium segment”, praising its “brilliantly connected driving experience” and versatile selection of powertrains.

Success for BMW Group at the Autovista Residual Value Awards.
BMW Group collected three accolades at the 2025 Autovista Residual Value Awards. Evaluated across seventeen European countries and based on insightful data, these awards recognise vehicles that demonstrate excellent value retention across a number of categories.

The BMW 1 Series topped the Compact Car category, “attracting buyers with its promise of premium quality, sporty driving dynamics, and advanced technology”, said Autovista. Meanwhile, MINI secured two titles, as the MINI Aceman emerged as best Small BEV, and the MINI Cooper retained its position as leader of the Small Car category. The MINI Aceman was described as “a fresh and fashionable entry into the premium small BEV market”, while the MINI Cooper was commended for its reputation as “fun to drive”, combined with a “high-quality interior and extensive customisation options.”

BMW Group secures two headline accolades at the Fleet News FN50 Awards.
Widely recognised as setting the standard for industry excellence, the annual Fleet News FN50 Awards acknowledge success and innovation across the UK’s automotive sector. This year, BMW Group triumphed securing both headline awards: Most Reliable Carmaker and Most Reliable Car - awarded to the BMW 3 Series.

Reflecting on BMW Group’s success, Andrew Jago, General Manager, Corporate Sales BMW Group UK commented, “Once again, data from the UK’s 50 largest leasing companies has confirmed BMW Group as the most reliable carmaker based on breakdown and warranty claims. This is the tenth occasion that BMW and MINI have shared this accolade, underlining our commitment to quality and consistency.

We are equally proud that the BMW 3-Series retains its title as the most reliable car for the sixth consecutive year. After 50 years and seven generations, the world’s bestselling premium car is the industry benchmark for sheer driving pleasure and reliability.”

MINI Plant Oxford awarded a VisitEngland Gold Visitor Attraction Accolade for 2024-25.
In recognition of its comprehensive plant tour experience, MINI Plant Oxford recently received a VisitEngland Gold Visitor Attraction Accolade for 2024–2025. Based on scores achieved during its annual Visitor Attraction Quality Scheme assessment, a Gold accolade was awarded for demonstrating excellence, quality and an “amazing visitor experience”, whilst acknowledging “the people who give the warmest welcomes”.

Open to the public, plant tours at the home of MINI offer a unique opportunity to witness all stages of production, showcasing the assembly of up to 800 MINIs daily from Body in White to the final quality checks. To learn more, visit MINI Plant Oxford Tour.

MINI Plants Oxford and Swindon recognised for Operational Excellence.
MINI Plant Oxford and MINI Plant Swindon have received a Manufacturer MX Award for demonstrating Operational Excellence. Delivered by The Manufacturer in partnership with the Instiutution of Mechanical Engineers, the annual awards encourage, benchmark and celebrate manufacuring excellence across every stage. This year, both plants were recognised for their lean methodologies and techniques to enhance, “quality, cost, productivity, physical waste, reduction, customer service and safety”. Addititional commendation was given for fostering an engaged workforce and a culture of continuous improvement.


Ends

The BMW Group

With its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial services. The BMW Group production network comprises over 30 production sites worldwide; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2024, the BMW Group sold over 2.45 million passenger vehicles and more than 210,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2024 was € 11.0 billion on revenues amounting to € 142.4 billion. As of 31 December 2024, the BMW Group had a workforce of 159,104 employees.

The economic success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. Sustainability is a key element of the BMW Group’s corporate strategy and covers all products from the supply chain and production to the end of their useful life.

www.bmwgroup.com
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/bmw-group/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/bmwgroup
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bmwgroup
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bmwgroup
X: https://www.x.com/bmwgroup

For further information please contact:

Sam Buckingham
Press Officer, MINI
Tel: 07815 362 262
Samuel.Buckingham@mini.co.uk

Tom Evans
Senior Press Officer, BMW
Tel: 07815 371 705
Email: Tom.Evans@bmw.co.uk

James Morrison
Head of Product Communications
Tel: 07815 372 646
Email: James.Morrison@bmw.co.uk

Christina Burnham-Hepe
Corporate Communications Director
Tel: 07815 371 206
Email: Christina.Burnham-Hepe@bmw.co.uk

Thank you for attending the BMW Group UK Spring Multi-Model Launch event, featuring first drive opportunities for the MINI John Cooper Works Electric, MINI John Cooper Works Aceman and the new BMW iX.

Please see below for links to the press materials for each model. 

MINI John Cooper Works Electric & MINI John Cooper Works Aceman - UK Press Kit & Photography
MINI John Cooper Works Electric & MINI John Cooper Works Aceman - UK Press Release

MINI John Cooper Works & MINI John Cooper Works Convertible - UK Press Kit & Photography
MINI John Cooper Works & MINI John Cooper Works Convertible - UK Press Release

BMW iX - UK Press Kit & Photography 
BMW iX - UK Press Release

Spec sheets for all vehicles can be downloaded below.  

Following the successful launch of the new MINI family, a range of additions and optional extras are set to further enhance the MINI offering from Spring 2025.

Increasing personalisation across the MINI Cooper, MINI Cooper Convertible and MINI Countryman, customers now have a wider choice of exterior colours and trim combinations, alongside new digital features and improved practicality.

Improved exterior colour range
Giving customers increased options to personalise their new MINI, an improved selection of optional exterior paint colours are now available on petrol powered MINI Cooper, MINI Cooper Convertible and MINI Countryman models, regardless of customer choice between Classic, Sport and Exclusive trim.

MINI Cooper and MINI Cooper Convertible customers now have a choice of nine exterior paint options when building their new model; Legend Grey, Sunnyside Yellow, Ocean Wave Green, Melting Silver, Icy Sunshine Blue, Midnight Black II, Nanuq White, British Racing Green IV & Chili Red. Cooper Convertible customers also benefit from one further optional colour thanks to model exclusive Copper Grey.

For customers building their MINI Countryman, a choice of nine exterior paints are now available: Melting Silver III, Midnight Black II, Nanuq White, British Racing Green, Blazing Blue, Chili Red, Legend Grey, Smokey Green & Slate Blue.

Increased Versatility
MINI Cooper models built from March 1^st onwards now offer increased practicality for those who wish to extend their vehicles storage through a roof box, with the addition of roof rails as an optional extra.

For those who want a breath of fresh air, MINI Cooper Convertible customers can now optionally choose a soft-top roof with our iconic Union Jack design, adding flair to the vehicle when the roof is closed.

Increased practicality for the MINI Countryman
Previously offered on the MINI Countryman S only, a towbar is now offered optionally across all MINI Countryman derivatives, including the MINI Countryman E and SE. Activated using a button within the boot, a towbar further enhances the usability of the vehicle which can tow the following weights:

Improved Digital Features
For vehicles built after March 1^st 2025, Digital Key will now be extended, giving those who share their MINI with friends and family the possibility to add up to 18 keys for each vehicle. Offered through iOS devices including smart watches, Digital Key allows owners to share vehicle access with others to safely unlock, lock and start your MINI when a vehicle key isn’t present.

Further improvements have also been made to the in-vehicle Intelligent Personal Assistant (IPA), offering more accurate recognition for voice command requests and improved responsiveness. A new MINI-specific male voice will also be included to the IPA catalogue.

Ends

The BMW Group

With its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial services. The BMW Group production network comprises over 30 production sites worldwide; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2024, the BMW Group sold over 2.45 million passenger vehicles and more than 210,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2023 was € 17.1 billion on revenues amounting to € 155.5 billion. As of 31 December 2023, the BMW Group had a workforce of 154,950 employees.

The economic success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. Sustainability is a key element of the BMW Group’s corporate strategy and covers all products from the supply chain and production to the end of their useful life.

www.bmwgroup.com

LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/bmw-group/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/bmwgroup

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bmwgroup

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bmwgroup

X: https://www.x.com/bmwgroup


MINI Press Office Contacts:

Sam Buckingham
MINI Press Officer
Tel: 07815 362262
Email: Samuel.Buckingham@mini.co.uk

Helen Wilson
MINI Media Relations Manager
Tel: 07815 372480                   
Email: Helen.Wilson@mini.co.uk

Christina Burnham-Hepe
Corporate Communications Director
Tel: 07815 371206
Email: Christina.Burnham-Hepe@bmw.co.uk

Media website:
www.press.bmwgroup.co.uk
www.mini.co.uk
www.twitter.com/miniuk
www.facebook.com/miniuk
www.youtube.com/miniuk