Half a century ago Minis started as super compact hatchbacks that were simple and fun. Now, five decades later, they have grown in technology, luxury and size. Though most of them can still be called petite, the new 2017 Mini Countryman isn’t one of those. So here is a tour of the Mini Countryman through pictures for our Mini enthusiasts.
The Countryman gets the typical Mini fascia – single barrel headlamps and a moustache-like grille. While Mini cars look adorable, the Countryman gets an angry look with the squared headlamps and mesh grille curling downward.
The headlamp is all-LED and comes with projector lenses. While auto-headlamp function and follow-me-home function are standard, you can opt for the intelligent headlamps as well. The Countryman also gets bumper mounted front fog lamps.
As you move to the side, the bulk of the Countryman is visible. While the lines are like any other Mini, the peripheral cladding, ski rails on the roof and the applique on the fender makes it look butch. The wing mirrors still jut out like air pods from the profile.
From far behind, you might not be able to make out if it is a Countryman thanks to the glossy trim in the lower half that masks height. The bash-plate, twin exhausts and the chrome line make it look its part as a premium crossover SUV.
The new Countryman is almost 200mm longer and 60mm wider than the previous generation car. What it means is that you can now sit comfortably on the rear seats with good leg room and also can have the third guy in thanks to the added shoulder room.
The extra length is thanks to the elongated wheelbase and along with more cabin space, it opens up more boot space as well. With all seats up you have 450 litres of stowage which can be extended up to 1400 litres with the rear seats folded and tumbled up.
The cabin is plush and luxurious with leather upholstery and ambient lighting. The infotainment system is all new and the fittings in the new Countryman continue the classic rounded theme. It gets power seats, two-zone AC, electric sunroof along with a long list of luxuries.
Under the hood, the new Countryman gets the 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol from BMW that develops 134bhp of power along with the 2.0-litre 189bhp petrol for the S. The diesel engine is the same 2.0-litre turbocharged inline four cylinder engine.
The Mini Countryman is now also offered with a plug-in hybrid option. It gets the All4 four-wheel drive as an option across all trims. The outright crazy John Cooper Works model of the Countryman can be expected soon and with no less than 230bhp on tap.
