For the 2010 model year two special models (or packages in the US) were released to help celebrate the occasion of MINI’s 50th Anniversary. Both feature attractive trim and color choices combined with unique wheels and badging. Beyond that there really aren’t that many differences between standard models. With one exception of course. The Camden model (named after a trendy London neighborhood with more places to buy shows than you thought was imaginable) comes standard with something called Mission Control. The feature responds to your normal driving inputs by congratulating you, urging you on more than anything trying really hard to be your digital friend. Provided you don’t order Nav (which deletes the option) it’s a standard feature with the Camden that (at this point) is entirely exclusive.
And after spending some time with the car, we hope to God it stays that way. The video above likely gives tells you all you need to know about our reaction to the system.
This year saw the release of a couple excellent videos celebrating the brand’s 50th anniversary. With all the stories, reviews, links and general excitement throughout the year, we wanted to make sure you didn’t miss them. They’re definitely work a click.
In my first article for Motoringfile, I bring you (From Ireland) the R56 Art Car commissioned by MINI Ireland. This vehicle was created by Graham Knuttel, and was given to the various Dealerships in Ireland at the launch of the R56 in 2007.  Currently, it’s on display at the only racetrack here – Mondello – with a 1968 Mini next to it in order to commemerate the 50th anniversary of the original Mini.  Read on for the full press release from MINI Ireland continued →
Car Magazine (one of our favorites) is celebrating the MINI’s 50th Anniversary with a series of articles from various contributors. It’s well worth a click and the perfect thing to start off Monday morning.
Our friend Dimitri from the Russian MINI site www.minipeople.ru has asked us to pass on some of the Russian highlights of MINI’s 5th Anniversary party:
I wanted to let you know about activities dedicated to MINI 50th aniversary
that took place in Russia.
Our club turned 5 years old this year, so we are one 10th of MINI’s age and to
celebrate the two events, we had a massive birthday party here in Moscow.
We gathered near the center of Moscow underneath a huge MINI advertising
banner. There were over 80 cars, including 5 classics. Then we set off on what
we call city quest, which involved driving around a preset route and carrying
out certain tasks. This years quest was called MINI Monopoly Quest, because the
task along the route involved stopping off at 7 Z-Stores (official Apple
retailer) and playing renown Monopoly game with a twist. the quest also had a
timed-rally aspect to it, as you could not arrive to the waypoint earlier then
the route card let you, but being more than 7 minutes late gave you penalties. continued →
MINI gave a new JCW convertible to rallye racing Rauno Altonen and Paddy Hopkirk and sent them to the famous roads of Monte Carlo. They talk about the old Monte Carlo rallye, the new JCW and everything in between. This is a must watch video for any MINI enthusiast.
Just in time for a lazy Friday afternoon, MINIUSA’s online configurator has gone live with new pricing and new options including the Mayfair and Camden special editions options. So if you’re in the US, get clicking.
1st Gen MINI R50: One & MC Hatch R52: All 1st Gen MINI Convt. R53: MCS Hatch 2nd Gen MINI R55: Clubman R56: Hatch R57: Convertible R58: Coupe R59: Roadster R60: MINI Crossover R61: MINI Crossover Coupe 3rd Gen MINI F55: Clubman F56: Hatch F57: Convertible F60: MINI Crossover F62: Traveller
Advertise with MotoringFile
If you or your company are interested in advertising on the most influential MINI website in the world, please visit our Advertising section. If you have further questions about becoming a sponsor or would like to see our rate sheet please feel free to contact us directly.
Sections: 50th Anniversary, R56 (Hatch) Feb 12th, 2010 36 Comments 
