There would be no point of this forum if you didn't have too.

Not sure if you were specifically responding to me, but I don't personally believe that the 1er would cannibalize 3er sales. However, BMW has to be very selective about what 1er's they introduce and how they choose to go about pricing and positioning those models.

Basically, BMW would be smart to limit the US 1er range to just a coupe and a convertible, both with 6-cyl engines and a list of standard equipment that exceeds what's being offered in Europe. I don't see the appeal of a sedan or hatchback model. In a few months, a slew of value-priced hatchbacks will be hitting the US market (Yaris, Fit/Jazz, Versa), and American sensibilities will immediatly assign poor marks for a BMW that follows suit. The situation isn't quite the same in Europe where hatchbacks are the order of the day and wagons are the natural proposition for anybody with a family.

I agree, looks like we're on somewhat of the same page. In my statement about the cannibalization argument I was not refering to you.

Must we have anymore antagonist on this board? You and Imhotep are VERY much alike.

This is the thing about Mini - It's got a twofold advantage that props it up above other vehicles in it's class. 1) It's a quirky British car with popular lines. 2) People kinda know that it's a BMW because it's sold at BMW dealers.

Thing is - the "badge factor" works in reverse with Mini. It gets the benefit of association with BMW, while at the same time enjoying premium econocar status. This doesn't bother BMW owners all that much, because the Mini/BMW connection is somewhat known, but not spelled out for all to see.

Hoever - if the shoe is on the other foot, the oppisite happens. It's all well and good, so long as the US 1ers are relatively expensive and sport a quality that is a clear cut above similar, less expensive offerings from other brands.

I'll remain skeptical. The C-Hatch seemed like a natural move for Benz at the time, but in hindsight, it wasn't such a good idea.

I'm not attacking you in any way. I'm simply saying if you can't take criticism then don't post. Simple as that.

No offense to you Deutsch, but sometimes you sudden change of mind on the subject does raise a few eyebrows.

But anyway, I think Osna is spot on. If the 1er can be marketed as a "higher end" cheap BMW, then there would be no problem. The prospect of a small BMW coupe with a decent engine is mouth watering.

Is Jurgen Schrempp to blame for that scew up too?

What else can I say? I have my own mind.

Your right. The "badge factor" worked really well for Mini and BMW. I still dont think it would hurt BMW's image if mini was badged BMW (except for FWD, but the 1er is RWD-which doesnt hurt that ultimate driving machine appeal ). If you step into the mini you can tell by the quality of the interior, the rigidity around bends and the steering feel that this car is head and shoulders above the PT and the Beetle, which BMW doesnt want to compete with because that would really destroy their image.