The Mini’s family portrait has gained another member. One that aims to offer fans of this quirky brand, with expanding families of their own, just a little bit more versatility and practicality than the beloved Cooper can deliver.
Mini has an idea that it has plenty of loyal fans who were forced to trade in their Cooper and Cooper S models as their lifestyles requirements outgrew the traditionally three-door body shape, limited rear legroom, and tight luggage space offered by the original car. While the 2008 introduction of the Mini Clubman may have freed up some additional utility space, this model still didn’t quite tick the boxes required by young families who needed easy access to more useable rear passenger space.
The new Mini Countryman now offers these previously conflicted fans of the brand an option to continue enjoying all of the quirkiness that they have grown to love from the Mini ownership experience, but now with the additional benefit of it also suiting their ever-changing lifestyles.The new car not only offers four-door versatility but also an opportunity to venture a little further out of town thanks to its raised body height (26 mm) and even the option of an All4 all-wheel drive drivetrain.
Standing 4 110 mm in length and with 2 595 mm worth of wheelbase the new Countryman is initially available in either 90 kW Cooper or 135 kW Cooper S guise, while diesel and JCW versions are being looked into. The smaller of the two derivatives now has a Valvetronic-based variable valve management system for increased power but less thirst. This model now boasts a claimed fuel consumption of 6,5 litres/100 km, with a 152 g/km CO2 rating.
A choice of 17-, 18- and 19-inch alloy wheels is available at purchase – bearing in mind that the corresponding rubber is of the run-flat variety.
For the South African market the Countryman is offered with a fore/aft adjustable five-seater bench at the rear, though two individual seats (matching European standard spec) can be ordered as a no-cost option.
Adding all-wheel drive to the Cooper S adds R48 000 to the bottom line. This system features an electro-hydraulic differential positioned directly on the final drive apportioning drive between the front and rear wheels. Under normal driving conditions up to 50 per cent of the engine’s power goes to the rear wheels, though 100 per cent can be directed backwards when required.
Mini Cooper Countryman R287 500
Mini Cooper Countryman A/T R303 600
Mini Cooper S Countryman R345 000
Mini Cooper S Countryman A/T R361100
