When BMW sold the Rover brand, it kept the Mini to pursue its plans on expanding on the rising market of small-segment premium vehicles.
The first model introduced by the British brand after the German involvement was the MINI hatchback in late 2000. Its retro-design styling left no confusion regarding its origins, and BMW sold over one million units of it in just six years of production time.

The rounded shapes of the new R50, MINI were an instant success on the market. It was more of a fashion item than a transportation device. Even if it costed more than most of the small-segment vehicles available, the premium customers were happy. Depending on the trim level, the car sported a chromed or a body-colored grille at the front. For the supercharged (Cooper S) version, the carmaker installed an air-intake on the hood.

Inside, the car was different than anything else on the market. With switches inspired by WWII airplanes and a big, round dial placed on top of the center stack, the MINI was different. It offered a low seating position and a retro-style design for the gear-stick. In the back, it provided room for two adults on the split-folding bench.

Under the hood, MINI installed a choice of three engines. The carmaker installed a 1.4-liter unit for specific markets, while the rest of the world received a 1.6-liter version. The Cooper S model received a supercharged 1.6-liter four-pot powerplant. The diesel version came later on, and MINI carried it over from Toyota. One key element for the MINI was the independent suspension in all corners, a unique feature on the small segment.