British International Motor Show - Mini

What's new?
If you like the sound of the fastest Mini ever built, then we're afraid you'll be a touch disappointed. Not because the new Cooper S Works GP is in any way rubbish, but because it has already sold out before even going on sale.

Enough orders have already been received to exhaust the UK's allocation of 459 cars. Nevertheless, the GP is being shown on Mini's stand, so that people who missed the boat can ponder on what might have been.

What have I missed out on?
At 218bhp, there's not that much more power than in a standard Cooper S Works. However, the GP sheds 40 kilos in weight, meaning that it can chew through the 0-62mph dash in 6.5 seconds and power on to a top speed of 146mph.

It looks the part, too, with a range of extra wings and skirts, along with a set of very showy 18-inch alloys. There's extra kit, too, such as stability control, a multi-function steering wheel and Recaro sports seats.

Should I be disappointed?
Probably not. It'll doubtlessly be great fun for the lucky few, but £22,000 is a lot to pay for any Mini.

Anything else?
Oh, yes. The Mini Traveller concept is also on show, which when you look past the wacky design features such as the built-in tea set, has all the makings of a Mini estate car. A production version has already been confirmed, and it should be on the road by 2008.

Also, existing Mini owners can relax on the company's purpose-built barge, moored up on the waterfront outside ExCel. This huge floating hospitality area offers three sundecks, four themed rooms, three bars and a games room.

Er, aren't we missing something?
It's a shame we didn't get to see the next evolution of the Mini here at ExCel, but it will be at the Paris Motor Show in September. Some lucky customers might get their new Mini before Christmas, although in the new year is probably a safer bet.

There won't be any special-edition run-out versions of the current Mini. The current car is still so popular.