Mini has launched the all-new Countryman in South Africa with increased exterior proportions, increased interior space and a variety of retro styling touches inspired by the quirky original.
The design features clear aesthetics such as a tidy design upfront which is characterised by the tense shape of the bonnet and a new octagonal front grille. LED headlamps accentuate the reduced design while short overhangs and a stretched contrasting roof are typical Mini design cues that have been retained.
Mini are offering four trims which allow motorists to accentuate the design in line with their taste including Essential, Classic, Favoured and John Cooper Works, each with their own unique finishes for both the interior and exterior. In combination with the different trims, a variety of different paint and roof colours as well as interior finishes are available.
Inside story
Inside, a new design language is characterised by clear shapes and high-quality materials, innovative technology and individually adjustable lighting, all of which combine to create an immersive driving experience.
The dashboard is finished in a unique two-tone colour gradient that varies according to the model and trim and which is manufactured from a recycled polyester and applied in a knitted fashion, creating a unique look and feel.
Central to the cockpit design is a high-resolution circular OLED display that measures 240mm in diameter and from where the infotainment system and all major vehicle systems can be controlled. Convenient and intuitive operation of the systems is facilitated by the latest Mini operating system 9.
The Mini Countryman is 13cm longer and eight centimetres higher which results in an increased interior space that can now accommodate five passengers in comfort. Upfront, sport seats are standard while the backrest of the rear seat can be individually adjusted or folded flat should an enlarged cargo space be required.
Under the bonnet
The new Mini Countryman is being launched with Countryman C and Countryman S All4 derivatives.
The Mini Countryman C is fitted with an efficient 1.5 litre, three-cylinder, engine which utilises TwinPower Turbo technology to offer 115kW and 240Nm and which allows for a 0-100km/h sprint time of 9.0 seconds.
The Mini Countryman S ALL4 is fitted with a two-litre four-cylinder turbocharged engine which offers an output of 150kW and 320Nm, allowing for a 0-100km/h sprint time of 7.4 seconds.
The Mini Countryman S All4 takes the SUV attributes of the Countryman, including 202mm of ground clearance and adds all-wheel drive, which ensures a noticeable increase in traction, safety, stability and agility. With precise electronic control, power is distributed between the front and rear wheels as conditions require.
Model range and pricing
The Mini Countryman range is being launched with the Countryman C and S ALL4 derivatives at first while the Countryman SE ALL4 and John Cooper Works models are set to join the line up imminently.
Mini Countryman C - From R724,819.70
Mini Countryman S ALL4 - From R795,074.00
Mini JCW Countryman - From R965,767.80
Mini Countryman SE ALL4 - From R1,086,000.00
