MINI COUNTRYMAN GOES OFF-ROAD

Two weeks ago MINI unveiled a fourth model range for its lineup. The MINI Countryman range represents the brand’s first foray into the sub-compact SUV market. Typical of the current BMW Group, styling will definitely polarise. It stands higher off the ground than a normal hatch, Clubman or convertible.

MINI has installed the MINI ALL4 all-wheel-drive (AWD) system which should at least help the car through mild gravel, if not some slippery mud. Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and ABS are part of this solution, and so is Servotronic steering. Runflat tyres are the norm at MINI and the Countryman benefits from their stability and safety qualities. They range from 16-inch to 19-inch in size.

Depending on the market the sitting arrangement can either be the standard four-seat layout or a three-seat rear bench can be added optionally at no cost.

Interior features include air conditioning and a CD player, while optional extras that can be ticked off on the menu include iPod integration, a large panoramic sunroof, adaptive headlights, satellite navigation and a heated windscreen.

The South African market should get two models; a baseline Cooper Countryman and a Cooper S Countryman. The former has the trusty 1.6-litre naturally aspirated engine that produces a slightly higher 90kW at 6000rpm and 160Nm of torque at 4250rpm. It is said that its 0 – 100km/h sprint time is 10.5 seconds while top speed is 190km/h. MINI claims an average 6.1 litres/100km and a C02 emissions rating of 142 g/km.

On the upper end is a turbocharged 1.6-litre worth 135kW at 5500rpm and peak torque of 240Nm at 1600rpm. An overboost function (activated during actions like overtaking) will take this number up to 260Nm. The 0 – 100km/h acceleration time is claimed at 7.6 seconds and top speed peaks at 215km/h. The average fuel consumption is 6.3l/100km, equating to a C02 rating of 146g/km. Who knows, there could be a John Cooper Works model making about 160kW in the pipeline.