Launched in 2010, the Mini Countryman was the perfect vehicle for those that love the British automotive icon to no end, yet had to do grown-up duties, such as raise a family. It looked like a Mini from the outside, yet had space for five and their luggage on the inside. And it had all-wheel drive.
Six years later, Mini reveals an even bigger Mini—the all-new Mini Cooper Countryman. Maxi could very well be the way to describe the new model, which is around 200mm longer, 30mm wider, and has a wheelbase that has been extended by roughly 75mm. All these result in a more spacious cabin with a truly versatile seating system. One can adjust the rear bench in various directions for the ultimate in fun and comfort.
Moreover, the new Mini Cooper Countryman offers a few unique features. One of these is the Picnic Bench. Mounted on the tailgate load floor, it allows the rear sill to be used as a comfortable seat during those out-of-town jaunts. This, along with the electric tailgate makes loading cargo a breeze—sometimes as easy as a kicking action to open and close the hatch.
Tracing its roots to models like the Morris Traveller and Austin Seven Countryman, the new Mini Cooper Countryman combines the high ground clearance and muscular demeanor with traditional Mini touches. These include the three-way structure of the side view, short overhangs, and flared fenders. And of course, that front end is unmistakably Mini.
As with its exterior, the cabin is pure Mini, albeit taken to the 21st century. It’s a mix of old and new, with the classic Mini shapes and visual cues, along with touchscreen and LED lighting. And of course, connectivity to the outside world while on the go is the norm.
At launch, the Mini Countryman will come with a range of engines in gasoline, diesel, and now, a hybrid. There is the Cooper Countryman a 1.5-liter three-cylinder motor with 136hp and 220Nm, and the Cooper S Countryman with a 2.0-liter, four-cylinder that puts out 192hp and 280Nm. The diesel options, meanwhile consist of either the Cooper D Countryman with a 150hp, 330NmNm 2.0-liter diesel four-pot, or the Mini Cooper SD Countryman with its 2.0-liter diesel that develops 190hp and a rousing 400Nm.
The star of the new Mini Cooper Countryman range, however, is the Cooper S E Countryman ALL4. The brand’s very first hybrid combines the 1.5-liter, 136hp gas mill with an 88hp electric lump, giving a total system output of 224hp and 385Nm of torque. It’s pretty much the best of both worlds, offering power and economy to the tune of around 40km on pure lectric mode.
Each motor is paired with either a six-speed manual or a six-speed Steptronic automatic gearbox. Plus, the security of the ALL4 all-wheel drive system ensures the legendary Mini go-art handling is intact on any road surface. You’ve even got a timer to measure your lap times while having fun on those make-believe rally stages.
The Mini Cooper Countryman is for the modern family man or the adventurous individual that just has to have that Mini in his garage.
