The brand-new second-generation 2017 MINI Countryman makes its world premiere! It is now bigger and more powerful than the one before it, with loads of new capabilities and features for practical use.
Built on BMW’s UKL architecture, it is 7.8 inches longer than the predecessor, a full inch wider and its wheelbase has grown 2.9 inches, thus dramatically improving cargo and interior passenger space. The seats can slide longitudinally, for even more space!
The design of the car is more muscular and rugged but the interior is very modern. It has sore ambient lighting, a better-sorted center console, a new armrest and wider dash trim that feels more premium.
The standard MINI Cooper Countryman will be powered by a 1.5 liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine delivering 134 hp and 162 lb-ft of torque. The higher-spec MINI Cooper S Countryman will be powered by the B48 2.0 liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivering 189 hp and 207 lb-ft of torque. They will be matted to a front-wheel drive as standard with the ALL4 all-wheel drive system as an option.
The standard transmission for both models is a six-speed manual, with automatic transmissions available as an option. The MINI Cooper Countryman ALL4, Cooper S Countryman and Cooper S Countryman ALL4, the automatic option will be the Aisin eight-speed unit. For the front-wheel drive MINI Cooper Countryman, a six-speed auto will be available. The fastest model available is the MINI Cooper S Countryman ALL4 with the eight-speed auto, doing 0-60 mph in 7 seconds.
A plug-in hybrid variant will also be launched. It is called the MINI Cooper S E Countryman ALL4 and is powered by the same 1.5 liter turbo engine, matted to an electric motor and the six-speed auto. Total system output will be 221 hp, making it the most powerful and efficient but also the heaviest.
New features to the MINI Countryman include the new MINI Connected system that acts as a personal mobility assistant, and the MINI Find Mate which can help keep track of anything the driver wants.