Since the littlest car was reinvented in 2002, Mini’s management has been trying to foster the affection people held for the original Mini. And from what we saw recently, it seems to be working.
Two years ago, Mini Takes The States motored from coast-to-coast with thousands of owners. This year, Mini owners voted to visit four cities for separate weekends of Mini-themed fun. It traveled to Miami, Boston, Chicago and LA. We joined them on the final weekend in Los Angeles to enjoy the fun that amounted to a free party.

The event started off with a rally through the canyons, where owners could enjoy the handling that make the Mini so much fun. While that was happening, prospective owners were invited to sample all types of Mini on an autocross laid out in the parking lots at the Pasadena Rose Bowl.
Unfortunately, we were kicked off the autocross for going too fast – how do you go too fast in an autocross?!
We snuck back in and sampled Cooper S versions of the Mini, Clubman and the new John Cooper Works car before we were again invited to have an early lunch! Fortunately, we had time to enjoy the JCW car that really elevates the Mini to new levels.
The event started to fill by 12pm as several hundreds participants from the Mini rally began to arrive. The special Mini parking area was soon filled with cars of all types, including some original Minis – our favorite packed a Honda V-TEC motor for some thrills and giggles.
Once at the Rose Bowl, people could enjoy live music from the main stage, talk to the tuners on hand and browse the booths filled with Mini accessories.
With plenty of food available, rock climbing, BMW stunts and even a tent with a cooling water mist to battle the high temps, the event was a fun day out and a great success.