EXTREMELY ATHLETIC, EXTREMELY VERSATILE
Woodcliff Lake, NJ – January 17, 2017 – The second generation of the MINI Countryman is the biggest and most versatile model in the entire range of the tradition-steeped British brand. And another superlative now applies to the power unit of the MINI John Cooper Works Countryman. With an output of 228 hp, it is the most powerful engine ever to be fitted in a MINI: in combination with the standard all-wheel drive system ALL4 and a robust vehicle concept, it ensures that the latest addition to the family of top John Cooper Works athletes takes the MINI experience to a whole new level – in terms of both race track feeling on the road and extreme driving fun over unsurfaced terrain.
The new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman sprints from zero to 60 mph in 6.2 seconds with both the standard 6-speed manual transmission and the optional 8-speed Steptronic Sport Automatic transmission. In doing so it is 0.8 to 0.9 seconds quicker than the MINI Cooper S Countryman ALL4. The superior performance qualities of the new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman are likewise reflected in its elasticity on interim sprints, cornering agility and deceleration performance. These qualities are the product of an overall package that has been compiled based on John Cooper Works racing expertise, including not just the engine and all-wheel drive system but also a sports suspension with 18-inch John Cooper Works light alloy wheels and Brembo sports brake system, special body features to optimize aerodynamic properties and cooling air intake, and a model-specific cockpit with John Cooper Works sports seats. The exceptional standing of the new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman within the premium compact segment is underscored by means of exclusive standard features including MINI Driving Modes, LED headlamps, Comfort Access keyless entry and a 6.5-inch screen with the MINI Connected infotainment system.
The new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman: an overview of the facts and figures.
– 4-cylinder turbo engine with 228 hp and 258 ft lbs torque. – Efficiency-optimized all-wheel drive system ALL4 as standard. – Sports suspension with Brembo sports brake system and 18-inch light alloy wheels. – Engine, suspension and Aerodynamic harmonised based on John Cooper Works racing expertise. – Sprint from zero to 60 mph in 6.2 seconds, 0.8 seconds faster than the MINI Cooper S Countryman ALL4, maximum speed: 145 mph. – John Cooper Works Aerodynamic Kit with especially large air inlets at the front. – Model-specific interior with John Cooper Works sports seats. – Exclusive standard trim include LED headlamps, MINI Driving Modes and Comfort Access. – Five fully fledged seats, and a significant increase in space, luggage compartment size and versatility as compared to the predecessor model. – MINI Connected as a personal mobility assistant for everyday use and when traveling.
More power, more space and more race track feeling on all terrains.
The new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman is the successor to the brand’s first top athlete designed for the compact segment and fitted as standard with the all-wheel drive system ALL4. The new car’s advancement over its predecessor is reflected not just in an output that is increased by 20 hp and the efficiency-optimized design of the ALL4 system but also in enlarged external dimensions and a considerable increase in space, versatility and functionality. With an addition of some 6.7 inches in length and 1.3 in width along with a wheelbase extension of 2.9 inches, space availability on the five fully fledged seats is now significantly optimized. The luggage compartment can be expanded as required from 17.6 cubic feet to as much as 47.6 cubic feet. This makes the new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman a top athlete with all-round qualities that provides extreme driving fun and exceptional versatility – whether on the race track, away from freshly paved highways, in everyday traffic, or over lengthier distances.
World premiere in Shanghai, market launch in spring 2017.
The new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman will be presented to the public for the first time in April 2017 at the Shanghai Motor Show. Vehicles will begin to arrive in U.S. dealerships in April 2017.
Developed from longstanding experience of race tracks and rally trails.
In addition to state-of-the-art technology, the distinctive character of the new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman is also derived from the brand’s longstanding and successful motor racing tradition. It was 55 years ago that the classic Mini clinched its first victory – when the Mini Cooper won the British Touring Car Championship. Since then the name of legendary sports car designer John Cooper has stood for the brand’s racing success and the extreme driving fun it offers on the road.
Exactly 50 years after the last of three outright wins by the classic Mini at the Monte Carlo Rally, the new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman now points the way to further success in this discipline. The new edition of this all-rounder provides the basis for the competition vehicle developed by MINI and the X-raid Team for long-distance rallies. The MINI John Cooper Works Rally is set to take on the challenges of the world’s toughest marathon contests, starting with the Dakar Rally in 2017. As such it succeeds the MINI ALL4 Racing, which was developed based on the first generation of the MINI Countryman and won the Dakar Rally four times in succession.
Perfectly harmonised overall package for top performance.
The John Cooper Works brand has been integrated under the MINI umbrella for ten years. This close connection dates back to the early years of the classic Mini, whose sporting talent was discovered and promoted by John Cooper. Today it impacts positively on the extreme driving enjoyment offered by the MINI John Cooper Works Countryman. The engine, transmission, all-wheel drive, suspension, Aerodynamic and cockpit design are not just geared towards top performance, they are also precisely harmonised with the vehicle concept of the new MINI Countryman. As a result, the latest John Cooper Works model is an overall package for thrilling performance, assembled with racing expertise.
Engine: power delivery and sound with racing character.
The 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine installed transversely at the front of the new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman demonstrates performance characteristics inspired by motor racing. It has a specific version of MINI TwinPower Turbo Technology with a turbocharging system integrated in the cast steel manifold, petrol direct injection, the fully variable valve control system VALVETRONIC and variable camshaft control (double VANOS). Made of highly temperature-resistant material, the turbocharger generates a charge-air pressure which is now increased to 2.2 bar. This creates the basis for highly energetic and long-lasting power delivery. The engine puts its maximum torque of 258 ft lbs on stream at between 1 450 and 4 500 rpm. It delivers its peak output of 228 hp within an engine speed range of 5 000 and 6 000 rpm.
The particular features of the new engine developed for John Cooper Works models include specific pistons, a large charge-air cooler and an additional radiator. In addition there is a sports exhaust system that not only supports the engine’s performance characteristics but also gives them an impressive acoustic and visual dimension. Reduced exhaust gas pressure promotes spontaneous power delivery, while a controllable exhaust flap and the special geometry of the tailpipe help generate the highly emotional sound that is typical of John Cooper Works models. The sports exhaust system also has tapered chrome covers for the dual tailpipes.
6-speed manual transmission as standard, 8-speed Steptronic Sport Automatic transmission as an option.
The standard 6-speed manual transmission is weight-optimized in design as well as exhibiting a high level of internal efficiency and shift comfort. A gear sensor enables active engine speed adaptation for particularly dynamic shifting. Short shifts and the model-specific gear lever knob facilitate precise gear selection. An 8-speed Steptronic Sport Automatic transmissionis optionally available, operated by means of a distinctively designed selector lever as well as shift paddles at the steering wheel. It offers particularly short shift times and a Launch Control function for traction-optimized sprint maneuvers from standing.
With ALL4 from the dirt road to the race track.
The performance capacity of the new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman is not just very high, it is also extremely versatile in terms of the potential range of uses. This is due to the ALL4 all-wheel drive system, which not only optimizes traction on unsurfaced terrain such as dirt roads but also enhances ride stability in adverse weather conditions and improves agility when taking bends dynamically on the race track. The system’s electronic control unit is linked to the DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), ensuring a consistently fast and precise response at all times in distributing the drive torque between the front and rear wheels.
Thanks to its compact and weight-optimized design, the current version of the ALL4 all-wheel drive system offers a particularly efficient form of variable power distribution. It consists of a power take-off bevel gear on the front axle differential, a dual-section propeller shaft and a rear axle differential with an electrohydraulically controlled hang-on clutch. In order to reduce the torque loss that occurs when drive power is transferred to the rear axle, the new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman uses active DSC with the brand’s characteristic front-wheel drive in normal situations on the road. Only when necessary does the hang-on clutch relay drive torque to the rear wheels within a fraction of a second.
Sports chassis for maximum agility when sprinting, on bends and during braking maneuvers.
The high-quality suspension technology of the new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman offers the perfect basis for maximum performance and enthralling handling properties. It is designed to harmonise with the extremely high engine output of this versatile top athlete as well as its long wheelbase, large track and low centre of gravity. A single-joint spring strut axle at the front is combined with a multilink rear axle in a model-specific version. What is more, the optional sports suspension of the new MINI John Cooper Works Clubman features a particularly tight set-up of the suspension and damping systems. The speed-related Servotronic steering support – likewise a standard feature – promotes precise handling on bends and comfortable maneuvering at low speeds.
The sports brake system was designed in collaboration with specialist manufacturer Brembo and comprises 4-piston fixed-calliper disc brakes on the front wheels, guaranteeing consistently high deceleration rates even when subjected to intense use. The brake callipers are finished in red and bear the John Cooper Works logo at the front. The Dynamic Stability Control system also ensures optimum traction on sprints, agility on bends and safe deceleration. Its functions include Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), Electronic Differential Lock Control (EDLC) – which acts as an electronic locking function for the front axle differential – and Performance Control for agile turning when taking bends at speed. The standard trim also includes 18-inch John Cooper Works light alloy wheels in Black Thrill Spoke. John Cooper Works 19” light alloy wheels are optionally available.
MINI Driving Modes and Dynamic Damper Control enable an individualised vehicle set-up.
The standard MINI Driving Modes enable a vehicle set-up that is geared towards both the situation on the road and the driver’s individual preferences. A rotary switch at the base of the gear or selector lever is used to activate the settings SPORT, MID and GREEN. This influences the characteristic curves of the accelerator pedal and steering, the engine acoustics, the shift characteristics of the 8-speed Steptronic Sport Automatic transmission, if the latter is fitted, and the Dynamic Damper Control set-up. The characteristics of the electronically controlled dampers are geared to a particularly dynamic driving style in SPORT mode and support a more comfort-oriented style in the other two modes. GREEN mode is designed for comfortable yet efficiency-optimized driving. A supporting feature here is the coasting function, which can be used in conjunction with the 8-speed Steptronic Sport Automatic transmission. In GREEN mode, the drivetrain is decoupled at speeds above 35 mph as soon as the driver’s foot is removed from the accelerator pedal.
Exterior: a clear indication of versatile athleticism.
The exterior design of the new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman expresses the model’s distinctive combination of extreme athleticism and exceptional versatility. With a length of 169.8 inches, a width of 71.7 inches and a height of 61.3 inches, it is unmistakably the biggest top athlete in the family of John Cooper Works models. The typical proportions of a dynamic all-round sports car are further emphasised by model-specific features, in particular including the John Cooper Works Aerodynamic Kit. Key elements of the car’s powerful appearance include the large cooling inlets in the front apron, which take up the space normally reserved for parking lights and fog lamps in other variants of the new MINI Countryman. The standard roof rails and the model-specific roof spoiler underscore both the height of the body and the fact that its design is geared towards optimum aerodynamic balance.
The side turn indicator surrounds known as side scuttles bear a red accentuation line and the John Cooper Works logo, as does the hexagon radiator grille with characteristic honeycomb pattern; the logo also appears on the tailgate. There are four non-metallic and six metallic variants to choose from for the body finish of the new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman. Here, Rebel Green is an option reserved exclusively for John Cooper Works models as is the contrasting paint finish for the roof and exterior mirror caps in Chili Red.
Interior: more space for racing passion.
Inside the new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman, the versatile performance qualities can be experienced on five fully fledged seats and in a characteristic sports car atmosphere. In addition to John Cooper Works sports seats with integrated headrests, features such as the John Cooper Works sports steering wheel with multifunction buttons, the John Cooper Works gear or selector lever and the roof liner in anthracite all contribute to the car’s intense feeling of racing flair.
A distinctive cockpit design is combined with optimized space and a high degree of versatility. Head, shoulder and leg room are significantly more generous than in the predecessor model, both at the front and the rear. The rear seats can be shifted longitudinally by up to 5.1 inches in a 60 : 40 split, while additional versatility is provided by backrest elements that are tilt-adjustable and foldable in a 40 : 20 : 40 split. One unique option for pit stops in distinctive MINI style is the Picnic Cushion, a flexible surface that folds out of the luggage compartment and provides seating for two people.
Exceptional athlete with exclusive fittings.
The exceptional standing of the new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman both in the premium compact segment and the brand’s model program is underscored by its exclusive equipment items. The standard LED headlamps optimize visibility when driving in the dark as well as giving the appearance of the car’s front section a striking contour. The daytime driving light is generated by a band of light running entirely around each headlamp, likewise using LED technology. Standard features also include panorama glass roof, Comfort Access keyless entry, rear Park Distance Control parking sensors, rearview camera, and the MINI Connected infotainment system with a 6.5-inch screen in the central instrument that displays a start motif specific to John Cooper Works when the driver gets in the car.
Modern driver assistance systems, high-quality options for comfort and individual style.
The driver assistance systems developed for the current model generation enhance comfort and safety in the new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman, too. The optional Driving Assistant system includes collision warning with city braking function, camera-based active cruise control, pedestrian warning with initial brake function, high beam assistant and road sign detection. Other features to choose from include Park Distance Control with sensors at the front and Parking Assistant with automatic steering for parallel parking maneuvers. In addition to information on speed, speed limits, current navigation directions, feedback from the driver assistance systems, and lists of telephone contacts and entertainment programs, it is also possible to display the currently selected gear and a multi-coloured engine speed scale on the special John Cooper Works Head-Up Display.
Central instrument with touchscreen, MINI Find Mate and MINI County Timer.
Other options include the Harman Kardon hi-fi audio system, and an 8.8-inch touchscreen navigation system. The touchscreen navigation system also comes with the Touch Controller in the center console and MINI Find Mate, one of the latest digital services to be added to MINI Connected. MINI Find Mate consists of two tags with a wireless Bluetooth tracking function that can be attached to commonly used objects and travel items, enabling them to be conveniently located via MINI Connected. If the tag is located outside the wireless range, the most recently registered position is displayed on the on-board computer and on the driver’s smartphone. As soon as the smartphone or vehicle moves back into the tag’s wireless range, the tag can be activated and acoustically located.
MINI Connected, the digital personal mobility assistant.
The new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman also demonstrates fascinating performance and great versatility in the area of connectivity. Going beyond the familiar functions of an in-car infotainment program, MINI Connected acts as a personal mobility assistant in the top athlete of the model range, too. Based on a flexible platform, the Open Mobility Cloud, MINI Connected integrates the vehicle seamlessly into the MINI driver’s digital life via touchpoints such as the Apple iPhone and Apple Watch.
Thanks to the integral concept of MINI Connected, mobility doesn’t start in the vehicle. MINI Connected informs the driver of the optimum departure time based on calendar entries and current traffic data. Address data and appointments saved by the driver previously on a smartphone via MINI Connected are automatically transferred to the car and do not have to be entered in the navigation system again. MINI Connected can also save regularly visited places as favourite destinations, and it detects frequently covered routes such as the daily run between home and work so as to be able to inform the driver in the event of unexpected traffic delays.
| 2018 MINI John Cooper Works Countryman ALL4 – Technical Specifications | ||
| Engine type | 2.0-liter inline-4 cylinder TwinPower Turbo engine, turbocharged and direct-injected | |
| Drive | ALL4 all-wheel drive | |
| Cylinders | 4 | |
| Lifting | 3.7 in. | |
| Bore | 3.2 in. | |
| Compression rate | 10.2:1 | |
| Engine power | 228 hp | |
| (5000-6000 rpm) | ||
| Engine torque | 258 ft lbs | |
| (1450 rpm-4500 rpm) | ||
| Transmission type | 6-speed manual | 8-speed Sport Automatic w/Paddle Shifters |
| 0-60 mph | 6.2 s | 6.2 s |
| Top speed | 145 mph | 145 mph |
| US Curb weight | 3613 lbs | 3653 lbs |
| Doors | 5 | |
| Seats | 5 | |
| Veh. length | 169.8 in. | |
| Veh. width | 71.7 in. | |
| Veh. height | 61.3 in. | |
| Wheelbase | 105.1 in. | |
| Cx | 0.34 | |
| Ground clearance | 6.5 in. | |
| Turning circle | 37.4 in. | |
| Legroom (front/rear) | 40.4 in. / 37.6 in. | |
| Shoulder room (front/rear) | 54.8 in. / 54.0 in. | |
| Headroom with sunroof (f/r) | 39.9 in. / 37.5 in. | |
| Headroom without sunroof (f/r) | 40.5 in. / 38.3 in. | |
| Front Seat Volume | 51.9 ft³ | |
| Rear Seat Volume | 45 ft³ | |
| Trunk volume (rear seats in use) | 17.6 ft³ | |
| Trunk volume (rear seats folded) | 47.6 ft³ | |
| Power-steering | EPS | |
| Fuel tank capacity | 16.1 gal. | |
| Fuel grade (minimum/rec.) | 91/93 | |
| Emissions classification | ULEV II | |
| Tires/Rims | Standard | Optional | Optional |
| Front tires | 225/50 R18 95W | 225/50 R18 95V AS | 225/45 R19 92W |
| Front rims | 7.5 x 18 LM | 7.5 x 18 LM | 8.0 x 19 LM |
| Rear tires | 225/50 R18 95W | 225/50 R18 95V AS | 225/45 R19 92W |
| Rear rims | 7.5 x 18 LM | 7.5 x 18 LM | 8.0 x 19 LM |
| Track (front) | 61.6 in. | 61.6 in. | 61.9 in. |
| Track (rear) | 61.7 in. | 61.7 in. | 62.0 in |
| Run flat tires | yes | yes | yes |
THE NEW MINI COUNTRYMAN FOR EUROPE
- All-new Countryman enters the C-segment with increased dimensions, powerful proportions and rugged styling
- Five full sized seats, with a clear increase in space and versatility and a premium cabin ambience
- MINI Cooper S E Countryman ALL4: the first ever MINI with plug-in hybrid drive
- New generation of engines and gearboxes, ALL4 efficiency-optimised all-wheel drive system
- High level of equipment – Satellite Navigation, Bluetooth, Emergency E-call and more, now standard on all models
- Central instrument with a touchscreen function for the first time in a MINI
- Electronic tailgate control as well as touch-free opening and closing of the tailgate
- New, unique options, including MINI Picnic Bench: foldout loading sill cushion on the luggage compartment lid for outdoor use
- Available to order now, MINI Cooper Countryman priced from £22,465. First customer deliveries in February 2017
The new MINI Countryman is the biggest and most versatile model to be launched in the brand’s 57-year history. With its larger external dimensions, and increases in space throughout the cabin and luggage area, it offers occupants even greater comfort and a genuinely premium ambience. Useful new features such as electric tailgate control with touch-free opening and unique options, including a fold down picnic bench at the rear, add to the ownership experience
The Countryman’s on- and off-road ability is readily apparent throughout its design, which fuses familiar MINI styling with the tough look of a crossover thanks to the extended ground clearance, large wheel arches and short overhangs.
For the first time MINI is offering a plug-in hybrid model with the new MINI Cooper S E Countryman ALL4. Drawing from expertise gleaned from across the BMW Group, this new hybrid features a turbocharged petrol engine and an electric motor, reducing fuel consumption to 134.5 mpg yet also enabling a 0-62 mph time of just 6.9 seconds.
The rest of the new MINI Countryman line-up is powered by an all-new range of engines sourced from the latest MINI TwinPower Turbo generation, offering outstanding performance and efficiency. With between 136 – 192 hp and 220 -400 Nm of torque, the new MINI Countryman can sprint from 0-62 mph in as little as 7.2 seconds, while fuel consumption reaches 64.2 mpg and C02 emissions drop as low as 113 g/km.
The new MINI Countryman is available with both manual and Steptronic gearboxes and with front- and all-wheel drive. The latter, MINI’s ALL4 system, has been further refined for increased driving agility and efficiency.
Reflecting customer demand for high-end features, equipment levels on the new MINI Countryman have been bolstered versus the outgoing model. Additions to the standard equipment list include MINI’s acclaimed Satellite Navigation System, Bluetooth, Cruise Control, Emergency E-call and Active Guard among others. Naturally, being a MINI, there is broad scope for owners to personalise their new Countryman, with extensive colour and trim options, advanced technology features and a range of option packs that offer carefully selected items with significant cost savings for the customer. One such option is a new 8.8” inch touchscreen display as part of the MINI Navigation System XL, offering touchscreen multimedia and navigation control for the first time in a MINI.
The new MINI Countryman is available to order at MINI retailers nationwide, with prices starting at £22,465 for the Cooper Countryman. First UK deliveries will be in February. Prices for the plug-in hybrid model will be announced in due course.
| Model | HP | Trans | CO2 | 0-62 mph |
OTR |
| MINI Cooper Countryman | 136 | Man | 126 | 9.6 | £22,465 |
| Aut | 126 | 9.6 | £23,960 | ||
| MINI Cooper ALL4 Countryman | 136 | Man | 139 | 9.8 | £24,195 |
| Aut | 136 | 9.8 | £25,690 | ||
| MINI Cooper D Countryman | 150 | Man | 113 | 8.9 | £24,425 |
| Aut | 115 | 8.8 | £26,020 | ||
| MINI Cooper D ALL4 Countryman | 150 | Man | 127 | 8.8 | £26,025 |
| Aut | 126 | 8.7 | £27,620 | ||
| MINI Cooper S Countryman | 192 | Man | 141 | 7.5 | £24,710 |
| Aut | 137 | 7.4 | £26,410 | ||
| MINI Cooper S ALL4 Countryman | 192 | Man | 159 | 7.3 | £26,350 |
| Aut | 146 | 7.2 | £28,025 | ||
| MINI Cooper SD Countryman | 190 | Aut | 121 | 7.7 | £27,965 |
| MINI Cooper SD ALL4 Countryman | 190 | Aut | 129 | 7.4 | £29,565 |
Exterior Design: recognisably MINI with a powerful presence
The new MINI Countryman is some 20 centimetres longer than its predecessor and three centimetres wider, while its wheelbase has been extended by 7.5 centimetres. These enlarged proportions – making it the largest of any MINI on sale – form the basis of a new design that has both the unmistakable MINI aura and the additional presence borne from an extended ground clearance and specific off-road design details. For example, the standard-fit roof rails in satin-finished aluminium are combined with silver-coloured side sill tops, thereby lending greater visual emphasis to the car’s height. The familiar ‘floating roof’, large headlamps and hexagonal radiator grille are all present, albeit having undergone careful evolution. From the front, the headlamp units differ from other MINI models by having an asymmetric shape, with LED lighting now an option. And at the rear, the vertically arranged light units help create the family ‘look’.
Interior Design: more space, more versatility, more style
The interior ambience of the new MINI Countryman has been further improved by the creation of more space, an attractive design, and a new operating and vehicle display concept.
The hallmark MINI central instrument is integrated in the instrument panel and is surrounded by an LED ring that provides a lighting display in response to driving situations by way of feedback from the controls.
Both driver and front passenger benefit from extended head and shoulder space, while the adjustment range of the seats has also been extended. Electrical adjustment of the driver and front passenger seats is now an option, including a memory function on the driver’s side.
The second row of seating now contains three fully-fledged seats, and the rear door openings have been enlarged, enabling easier entry and exit. In addition to overall interior width, leg space is now significantly more generous too, with an extra five centimetres of knee room over the previous model. The rear seats can be shifted back and forth by up to 13 cm, prioritising either passenger legroom or boot capacity depending on the situation. The folding rear backrest offers a 40 : 20 : 40 split and also provides a variable tilt angle so as to also offer either increased seating comfort or additional storage space at the rear.
The new model also benefits from more storage for on-board items and increased overall cargo capacity both with the seats in position and when lowered. In both the front and rear doors there are pockets that hold one-litre beverage bottles and the centre console extending up to the instrument panel has an integrated storage compartment and two cup holders in front of the gear or selector lever. The MINI Controller and the switch for the electrical parking brake are also positioned on the centre console.
The luggage compartment volume is 450 litres and can be extended by folding the rear seats to a total of 1,309 litres. This constitutes a maximum increase of 220 litres as compared to the previous generation model.
The luggage area can be accessed via an optional electric tailgate with touch-free opening and closing possible in conjunction with Comfort Access. The optional storage package comprises a variable load floor, lashing eyes and tension straps and also a stainless steel insert on the loading sill. One unique option is the Picnic Bench – a flexible surface that folds out of the luggage compartment and provides seating for two people.
Engine and transmission: new engines provide increased performance and efficiency
The new MINI Countryman is available at launch with a choice of four new engines: two petrol-powered variants and two diesels. In addition, for the first time there will be a plug-in hybrid MINI, the Cooper S E Countryman ALL4 (see below).
The new EU6-compliant MINI TwinPower Turbo engines are familiar from the other recent additions to the MINI family. The petrol engines, a 1.5-litre three-cylinder in the Cooper Countryman and a 2.0-litre four-cylinder in the Cooper S Countryman, feature turbocharging, direct fuel injection with centrally positioned injectors, variable camshaft control on the intake and exhaust side (double VANOS) and fully variable VALVETRONIC valve control technology.
The result is 136 hp and 220 Nm of torque in the Cooper, which enables a 0-62 mph time of 9.6 seconds and fuel consumption and emissions figures of 51.4 mpg/126 g/km. The Cooper S produces 192 hp with 280 Nm of torque, and completes the sprint to 62mph from rest in just 7.5 seconds, yet still manages 45.6 mpg with 141 g/km of C02 emitted.
The 2-litre diesel engines in the MINI Cooper D Countryman and MINI Cooper SD Countryman both also feature MINI TwinPower Turbo technology, with high pressure common rail injection. The 150 hp / 330 Nm engine in the Cooper D enables a very competitive 0-62 mph time of just 8.9 seconds (considerably quicker than the previous model) but with 64.2 mpg and 113 g/km of C02 emitted. The high performance Cooper SD Countryman features 190 hp and a full 400 Nm of toque, providing a 0-62mph sprint of just 7.7 seconds but with 61.4 mpg and 121 g/km of C02 emitted.
MINI Cooper Countryman: 3-cylinder petrol engine, capacity: 1 499 cc, output: 100 kW/136 hp, max. torque: 220 Nm.
MINI Cooper S Countryman: 4-cylinder petrol engine, capacity: 1 998 cc, output: 141 kW/192 hp, max. torque: 280 Nm.
MINI Cooper D Countryman: 4-cylinder diesel engine, capacity: 1 995 cc, output: 110 kW/150 hp, max. torque: 330 Nm.
MINI Cooper SD Countryman: 4-cylinder diesel engine, capacity: 1 995 cc, output: 140 kW/190 hp, max. torque: 400 Nm.
MINI Cooper S E Countryman ALL4: MINI’s first plug-in hybrid
For the first time a MINI is available with a plug-in hybrid system, achieving outstanding performance with extremely low consumption and emissions. The new MINI Cooper S E Countryman ALL 4 draws on the expertise in this area from across the BMW Group, including the range of BMW iPerformance vehicles.
A three-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine with MINI TwinPower technology, producing 136 hp and 220 Nm of torque, powers the front wheels of the Cooper S E Countryman. This engine is combined with a six-speed Steptronic transmission. The rear wheels are powered by a synchronous electric motor housed under the floor of the luggage compartment. This motor offers 88 hp and 165 Nm of torque, with all of the torque available from zero rpm. The motor’s output is sent to the rear axle via a two-stage single-speed transmission.
The lithium-ion battery is positioned directly in front of the electric motor underneath the rear seat. It is made up of five modules, each comprising 16 battery cells. Like the electric motor, the battery is produced at the Dingolfing plant, the BMW Group’s competence centre for eDrive technology. The high-voltage battery has a capacity of 7.6 kWh. At a wallbox with a charging capacity of 3.6 kW it can be fully charged in 2:15 hours, while charging at a regular household socket takes 3:15 hours. The intelligent energy management system, controlled by the power electronics of the plug-in hybrid system, ensures that the interplay between the combustion engine and the electric motor is optimised for both driving fun and efficiency in all situations. Using the power of the electric motor alone, the MINI Cooper S E Countryman ALL4 is able to provide locally emissions-free driving, and in the event that more intense acceleration is required, the electric motor supports the combustion engine via a boost function. A total system output of 224 hp and a combined torque of 385 Newton metres are available, enabling 0-62 mph in just 6.9 seconds. Fuel consumption and C02 emissions are very low, with 134.5 mpg and 49 g/km respectively, and the Cooper S E Countryman can travel up to 25-miles on electric power alone.
Via the eDrive toggle switch, the driver can also influence control over the interaction of the power units. There are three operating modes: Auto, Max and Save Battery. In the standard setting AUTO eDRIVE, the vehicle runs on electrical power only up to a speed of 50 mph. At higher speeds and in the case of very intensive loads, the combustion engine is automatically enabled in addition. In MAX eDRIVE mode the vehicle is powered by the electric motor alone at speeds up to approximately 78 mph. Finally, the SAVE BATTERY mode can be selected so as to relieve the capacity of the high-voltage battery or raise its charge state to at least 90 per cent so that sufficient electrical power remains for locally emissions-free driving later on.
With route guidance activated on standard specification navigation system, MINI Cooper S E Countryman ALL4 uses an anticipatory energy management system to ensures that appropriate sections of the route are run on electric power alone.
The high-voltage battery is housed underneath the slightly raised rear seat, as is the 35-litre fuel tank. When all seats are in use, the luggage compartment volume in the MINI Cooper S E Countryman ALL4 is only slightly less than in the conventionally powered models. The connection for the charging cable is under a flap in the area of the left-hand side scuttle.
This particular model is distinguishable by the model-specific “e” badge on the side scuttles, and also a yellow “S” in the model inscription on the rear as well as on the radiator grille and doorsill finishers. At the rear, a JCW aerodynamic rear bumper features a single exhaust outlet. Inside, the cockpit includes a yellow start/stop unit at the centre of the toggle switch panel and a performance display in the instrument cluster on the steering column.
The MINI Cooper S E Countryman ALL4 comes as standard with the MINI Visual Boost Radio featuring a 6.5-inch colour screen in the central instrument. In addition to the MINI Country Timer, this also displays information such as the charge state of the high-voltage battery and operating mode of the hybrid drive selected by eDrive toggle switch. In conjunction with the optional Media package including MINI navigation system XL, operation is via an 8.8-inch screen with a new graphic design and touchscreen function as well as via the Touch Controller in the centre console.
MINI Cooper S E Countryman ALL4: 3-cylinder petrol engine, capacity: 1 499 cc, output: 100 kW/136 hp, synchronous electric motor, output: 65 kW/88 hp, system output: 165 kW/224 hp, system torque: 385 Nm.
ALL4: improved version of MINI’s all-wheel drive system
MINI’s all-wheel drive system, ALL4, is available as an option on all engine variants. This latest version of the system not only reacts quickly and precisely to changing situations, it is also compact and offers a high level of internal efficiency. It consists of a power take-off unit integrated in the front axle differential, a propeller shaft leading to the rear axle and a hang-on clutch that ensures precisely measured transmission of the drive torque to the rear wheels. The system’s electronic control is interconnected with the Dynamic Stability Control DSC, so it detects any need to adapt power distribution early on. In this way, ALL4 optimises both traction and stability in adverse weather and road surface conditions, as well as ensuring improved agility when driving through bends in a sporty manner.
Chassis: sophisticated chassis with adaptive technology
The advanced suspension of the new MINI Countryman combines the well-proven principle of a single-joint spring strut axle at the front and a multilink rear axle with a design that is optimised for weight and rigidity as well as with a set up specific to this model. Servotronic steering, powerful brakes and Dynamic Stability Control DSC form part of a highly developed chassis package.
Dynamic Damper Control is an option: two program maps can be activated for the electronically controlled dampers via the likewise optional MINI Driving Modes. A rotary switch at the base of the gear or selector lever enables the driver to select a set-up according to one of the three modes – MID, SPORT and GREEN. This also influences the accelerator pedal and steering curve, the operating mode of electrically powered comfort features and the engine sound and shift characteristics of the Steptronic transmission, depending on engine and fittings.
Safety: driver assistance systems for improved safety
In addition to a strong but weight-optimised monocoque construction and a full complement of airbags, the standard and optional driver assistance systems are a key factor in improving occupant safety. The standard collision warning with city braking function can be extended to include the Driving Assistant system with camera-based active cruise control, pedestrian warning with initial brake function, high beam assistant and road sign detection. In addition to this, Park Distance Control, rear view camera, Parking Assistant and Head-Up-Display are also optionally available.
Equipment and options: build your perfect MINI Countryman with extensive options and packs
75% of customers who purchased the outgoing MINI Countryman model in the UK selected a Pepper, Chili or Sport pack for their vehicle. Reflecting customer demand for high-end features, MINI has significantly raised the level of standard equipment offered on the new Countryman, with many features previously included in the ‘Pepper’ pack on the outgoing MINI Countryman now offered as standard. Highlights include 16” alloy wheels on Cooper and Cooper D models, rear parking sensors (PDC), MINI Connected and Bluetooth connectivity. MINI Cooper S and Cooper SD Countryman models add 17” alloy wheels and cloth/leather upholstery. All models in the MINI Countryman range now benefit from Satellite Navigation as standard.
The standard entertainment system is the MINI Visual Boost Radio featuring a 6.5-inch colour display in the central instrument. Bluetooth hands-free telephone facility and satellite navigation are also both standard on the new MINI Countryman.
Options include the Harman Kardon hi-fi speaker system and the MINI navigation system XL, which comprises not just the Touch Controller on the centre console but also an 8.8-inch colour touchscreen in the central instrument with a new graphic design.
Another new feature offered as standard is the MINI Country Timer. This fun feature registers all travel over sloping, uneven, un-surfaced and snow-covered roads and tracks. As soon as the new MINI Countryman moves on demanding terrain, the type and extent of the challenge are detected and shown on the display in the central instrument by means of graphics. The driving situation is analysed based on data supplied by the control unit of the Dynamic Stability Control function. Owners can progress from the status of “Street Cruiser” to the “Cliff Champ” category, and the icon of the MINI on the display grows to be a MINI monster truck.
The program of optional equipment items further includes two-zone automatic air conditioning, a panorama glass roof and a tow hitch with removable ball head. Depending on the engine type, the permitted trailer load is between 1,500 – 1,800 kg.
The broad range of exterior paint finishes, seat upholstery types and interior surfaces enables individualisation of the new MINI Countryman in a way that reflects personal style. However, owners can choose to personalise their vehicles further with the aid of MINI’s option packs. These bring together a wealth of optional equipment but with a considerable cost saving compared to buying the items individually. The most popular of these is set to be the Chilli Pack, which for example enjoys a 75 per cent take up rate on the new MINI Clubman. The Chilli Pack includes automatic air conditioning, the MINI driving modes, sports seats (trimmed in part-leather or cloth/leatherette) and LED headlamps amongst a long list of items. The price of the pack is £2,980, but the saving for the customer is £1,150.
The JCW Chilli Pack (£4,950/£4,250 for ‘S’ models) includes all of the above plus items such as the JCW aerodynamics kit, sports suspension and 18” wheels. Its price depends on whether it’s fitted to a Cooper or Cooper S model. The Media Pack (£950) includes the MINI Navigation System XL, MINI Find Mate, MINI Connected XL and the Extended phone prep with wireless charging. Meanwhile, the MINI Yours Pack (£2,300/£1,825 for ‘S’ models) brings 19” alloy wheels, leather ‘Lounge’ seats, and a choice from three MINI Yours illuminated facia panels on the dashboard: Chestnut, British Oak or Piano Black. The MINI Teck Pack (£2,090) provides a rear view camera, Harman Kardon hi-fi, MINI Head-up display and the Media Pack XL contents. Finally, the MINI Activity Pack (£850) features the sliding rear seats, the picnic bench and the automatic tailgate amongst other items.
New from MINI Connected: personal mobility assistant and MINI Find Mate.
MINI Connected now goes beyond the familiar in-car infotainment functions to become a personal mobility assistant. Based on a flexible platform called the Open Mobility Cloud, MINI Connected integrates the vehicle seamlessly into the MINI driver’s digital life via touchpoints such as the Apple iPhone and Apple Watch.
At the heart of this connectivity lies MINI Connected, the personal mobility assistant available to MINI drivers with new innovative services as of October 2016. Here, individual mobility planning enables punctual, stress-free arrival at appointments. And mobility doesn’t start in the car: MINI Connected informs the driver of the optimum departure time based on calendar entries and current traffic data. Address data and appointments saved by the driver previously on a smartphone via MINI Connected are automatically transferred to the car and do not have to be entered in the navigation system again. MINI Connected can also save regularly visited places as favourite destinations and it detects frequently covered routes such as the daily run between home and work so as to be able to inform the driver in the event of unexpected traffic delays.
Another new feature in the area of connectivity is MINI Find Mate. This forms part of the Media pack and consists of so-called tags with a wireless tracking function that can be attached to frequently used objects and travel items such as bags, cases, key rings and rucksacks. MINI Find Mate is able to track the location of any such objects connected to the system that the driver wants to be sure not to forget: tracking is done not only on the on-board computer of the MINI Countryman but also on a smartphone. Providing there is a Bluetooth connection with the tag, an acoustic signal can be activated in the car or on the smartphone to help locate the object. If the tag is outside the Bluetooth range, the driver can be guided to the place at which a connection was last detected.