New Mini Countryman launch on 3 May

- Second-generation model launch on 3 May 2018
- Three variants - Cooper S, Cooper SD and Cooper S JCW Inspired.
- Three engine options – two petrol and one diesel
- Produced in India 

Back at the 2018 Auto Expo event in the country, German luxury car manufacturer BMW had revealed the second generation Mini Countryman. Post much wait, the company has finally announced its plans to launch the 2018 Mini Countryman in India on 3 May 2018. Interestingly, the vehicle will be produced at the company facility in Chennai, which means a significant reduction in import duties. The first generation model was sold in India via the CBU route which made it an expensive affair. The second generation model will be available in three variants - Cooper S, Cooper SD and Cooper S JCW Inspired.

Mechanically, the Mini Cooper SD will be powered by a 2.0-litre diesel engine with 150bhp of power and 330Nm of torque. The other two trims are powered by a 2.0-litre twin turbo four-cylinder engine that generates 192bhp of power and 280Nm of torque. Transmission duties, meanwhile, will be handled by a new eight-speed automatic which replaces the old six-speeder.

In terms of styling, the new Countryman features design elements that are typical of the brand, including the three-way structure of the side view - broken down into roof, glass section and the main body - as well as the short overhangs, large wheel arches and downward increase in width. Meanwhile, the upright rear lights, the hexagonal radiator grille and the large headlamps have been slightly revised. In comparison to its predecessor, the new Countryman is 20cm longer, 3cm wider and the wheelbase has been extended by 7.5cm. The boot space is 450 litres and can be extended to a total of 1,309 litres with the rear seats down.

Speaking of interior, the vehicle will get climate control, a large display for the infotainment system, a premium audio system, ambient lighting, electrically foldable mirrors and steering mounted controls among other features. Electric adjustment for the front seats is now part of the optional equipment and the overall quality of the plastics has been improved, too.