Driving Fun for Every Occasion: The New Mini Countryman

The new MINI Countryman which is set to launch in Singapore next March in four variants - two petrol models and two diesel models - is a power-saver when it comes to fuel consumption. With a combined fuel consumption of 7.0 – 2.1 l/100 km, its economic achievement looks more impressive than any of its direct competitors. It is also the first model from MINI to be available with a plug-in hybrid drive. In the form of the MINI Cooper S E Countryman ALL4, it has a range of up to 40 kilometres running on electrical power alone. The new MINI Countryman is fun to drive on both on- and off-road, thanks to its ALL4 all-wheel-drive system. The new MINI Countryman is some 20 centimetres longer than its predecessor and approximately 3 centimetres wider. With a wheelbase that is 7.5 centimetres longer, the new MINI Countryman is bigger in terms of passenger space and storage volume. The raised seating position in the five-seater new MINI Countryman ensures an excellent view and hallmark driving fun for its passengers. The car offers a great deal of practicality with a luggage compartment volume of 450 litres. If need be, it can even be extended to 1,309 litres. This is a maximum increase of 220 litres as compared to its predecessor. Ideal for young couples, the new MINI Countryman has a rather unique feature called the Picnic Bench. When folded out from the luggage compartment, the Picnic Bench will transform into a flat surface that is big enough for two persons to sit on.

The new MINI Countryman speaks volumes in terms of its versatility, agility and premium character. With an extended ground clearance and raised seating position, further amplified by the MINI ALL4 exterior look and high roof rails, the new MINI Countryman features design elements that are typical of the brand. For the first time, the new MINI Countryman comes in Island Blue metallic and Chestnut, which are now available for a MINI for the first time. The helmet roof, upright rear lights, hexagonal radiator grille and the large headlamps of the new MINI Countryman have also been redesigned. Another first is the adoption of the use of the LED headlamps with peripheral daytime driving light ring. Functionality has always been a big part of MINI. Which is why you will be able to see door pockets that can hold one-litre beverage bottles. The instrumental panel at the central console 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 interior of the new MINI Countryman emphasises the car's suitability for families and as a primary vehicle. The sense of quality in the interior has been significantly enhanced too,” says Julius Schluppkotten, MINI Countryman project manager. As an alternative to the standard 6-speed manual transmission, a 6-speed Steptronic transmission is also available for those who desire a little playfulness. For the new MINI Cooper S Countryman and the new MINI Cooper D Countryman, an 8-speed Steptronic transmission is available as an option. With an emphasis on safety and comfort, the new MINI Countryman can include a highly-sophisticated Driving Assistant System that gives you a bigger piece of mind with its camera-based active cruise control, pedestrian warning with initial brake function, high beam assistant and road sign detection. At an added cost, the Park Distance Control, rear view camera, Parking Assistant and Head-Up-Display features are also optionally available.

Credits: