For the fourth year in a row, the Mini Cooper ranked highest in the Compact Car Segment in J.D. Power and Associates latest Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study. The study measures owners' delight with the design, content, layout and performance of their new vehicles.

Mini continues to successfully attract buyers with a fun, unique design, including the cars' signature contrasting roof, and wheels pushed to the four corners. The wheels at the four corners, along with a responsive chassis, give Mini its go-kart-like performance - another appeal that has drawn customers to Mini. Customers also enjoy the freedom to individualize the content of their Mini with every option offered a-la-carte. Fans of top-down motoring can enjoy this same appeal with the Mini Cooper and Cooper S Convertibles.

"To receive this award every year since Mini arrived in the U.S. is extremely gratifying," said Jim McDowell, vice president of Mini USA. "It is a true testament of how much delight owners still receive behind the wheel of their Minis and it underscores the performance, fun and value our cars provide to them."

The 2005 APEAL Study is based on responses from more than 115,000 new-vehicle owners during the first 90 days of ownership. The study, now in its 10th year, is based on eight specific categories of vehicle performance and design that identify what consumers like and dislike about their new vehicles. The areas are: engine/transmission; ride, handling and braking; comfort/convenience; seats; cockpit/instrument panel; heating, ventilation and cooling; sound system; and styling/exterior.