> Maserati is planning on returning in 2002 with their new Giugiaro
> designed coupe (by '02 there will also be a Spyder version), which is
>
> tentatively called the Mistral.
Yup, they will be sold a Ferrari dealerships, but I heard 2003.
> BMW is planning on reintroducing MG, Austin-Healey and Rover cars
> sometime in the near future, perhaps in the next 5 years.
I don't know about the MG, as it would cut into their Z3 sales in a big way,
but..... with the success of the new Beetle, and BMW distaste for VW, it
could stand a chance.
The new Mini is definitely coming to the US, and will be sold a BMW
dealerships. BMW and Chrysler have a joint venture on developing the 4cyl
for it. (That may change because of MB-Chrysler) Also Bernd Pischetsrieder
(BMW chairman) is a cousin of Alec Issigonis.
Rover is definitely coming back to the USA. BMW is committed to that, but I
am unsure of a time frame.
There are a whole slew of BMW designed Rovers that will be debuting in
Europe soon.
As far as the other Marquees that Rover owned, BMW admitted that that was a
major reason they purchased Rover. They can now make new versions of
Triumphs, Austin-Healeys, Morris, Austin,MG,Sunbeam?, etc..
Renault regrets ever leaving. It would be tougher for them to come back than
Peugeot.
Fiat...even tougher than Peugeot and Renault combined.
Lancia could piggy-back a Alfa entry, or Maserati.
Not much recognition in the first place, so not to much image restoration.
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