You and Your New Mini, by Tim Mundy (Haynes, £17.99)

SINCE its launch in 2001, the new Mini has been a spectacular success and during 2004 the 500,000th example rolled off the production line.

The New Mini was possibly the most eagerly awaited new car ever, and with styling reminiscent of the original "classic" Mini coupled with BMW's engineering expertise, the car has carved out its own identity in a marketplace full of increasingly bland small hatchbacks.

This fascinating and informative book, written by self-confessed Mini fan Tim Mundy, shows you the New Mini's roots, charts its developments, and gives useful advice on how to choose and buy one. It is essential reading for all owners and enthusiasts of this stylish modern-day classic.

The author is a well-respected Mini authority and is technical Editor of Mini World and Keeping Your Mini Alive magazines.