When it comes to MINI Coopers, the Countryman and its Countryman S sibling are the variants for those guys who have a growing family and love to venture off the beaten path—yet still can’t let go of their beloved British icon. And you can see why just by looking at it: it’s a tall, not-so-little, err, MINI.
Now, MINI gives the Countryman premium compact crossover the John Cooper Works treatment. Those who know the British marque will immediately recognize the performance potential of this application. True enough, the new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman is 0.8 seconds quicker to 100 than its Countryman S counterpart, with a 0-100kph time of 6.5 ticks. This is courtesy of a 2.0-liter, four-cylinder turbocharged motor with 231hp.
Besides the power, which is transferred to all four drive wheels via either 6-speed manual or 8-speed Steptronic automatic gearbox, the ALL4 all-wheel drive system makes treading tricky or unpaved surfaces a cinch. As we said above, this is the MINI for the outdoorsy types.
The new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman is likewise a distinct offering, thanks to LED headlamps, air intakes on the front fenders, and 18-inch alloys that hide those massive and potent Brembo brakes. The cabin also features exclusive JCW sport seats, a MINI Visual Boost gauge, and Comfort Access, just to name a few.
This being a MINI, niceties like MINI Driving Modes for true driver customization, MINI Connected to keep occupants and their contacts in sync while on the move, and naturally, the legendary go-kart handling are all present here. The only difference is, you’ve got more space, versatility, power, and grip for almost any road surface (or lack thereof).
The new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman will make its world debut at the Shanghai Motor Show in April, with sales following thereafter.
