Countryman, the grown-up Mini
Theoretically born as a niche product, Mini has developed into a brand with a whole range. We have already known three body styles, and there will probably be a coupe derivative too. We witness now the presentationof the Countryman, a 5-dr SUV model that doesn’t honour the name Mini for size but it does for spirit and looks. It is, not only taller than the other Minis, also much longer at 4.1 m, and based in a different platform with 2.6 m wheelbase and multi-link rear suspension. Countryman is also roomier than its brothers and with a more generous cargo space. Boot can be extended by sliding longitudinally the rear seats in individual portions, in top of conventional folding. The chic packaging is with four seats and a Centre Rail from front to rear of cabin where accessories can be arranged; but a 3-seat rear bench is also available at no cost.
New Mini can be had with three petrol 1.6 engines with direct injection, from 98 to 184 hp. Good fuel efficiency is helped by regenerative braking and Start/Stop function. Diesel offer, also with 1.6 engines, has versions of 90 and 112 hp, both homologated for a low fuel consumption, with CO2 emissions below 120 gr/km. An ALL-4 permanent integral transmission, with variable torque distribution between the front and rear wheels, is optional for the 184 and 112 hp engines of Cooper S and Cooper D. With that option, a collapsible propeller shaft adds to the passive safety features of Countryman.
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