BMW is expanding its MINI brand. First came the Clubman, with longer wheelbase than the original MINI, and a single half door on the passenger side to make getting into the back seat easier. And now there's the Countryman, a small SUV version.
The Countryman measures 162 inches long, 15 inches longer overall than the original MINI, on a wheelbase that is 5 inches longer. So back seat passengers can be closer to adult size. Or fold the back seat and have 41 cubic feet of space for stuff.
Even though the Countryman is longer and heavier than the original MINI, it's still quite a bit smaller than other SUVs with AWD, like the Nissan Rogue, Honda CR-V or Subaru Forester. The Countryman's overall length is similar to the Honda Fit. In other words, the Countryman will be among the smallest cars sold in USA.
The Countryman will feature a standard 1.6L gas engine (121 hp, 118 lb-ft) and a six speed manual transmission. The turbocharged S model will have 181 hp, and 177 lb-ft. and a limited slip differential separating the front wheels. There are no plans to import the MINI diesel engine to USA.
An all wheel drive system is available at extra cost. The "All4" drive uses a hydraulic clutch pack that transfers power automatically when the fronts start to slip. The All4 models will have an increase in ride height, too.
The Countryman model will be available in Europe this Summer, and in USA starting about a year from now. Pricing was not announced.
I know, you're thinking, "If I want a small 4x4 I'll buy a Jeep Wrangler." The MINI Countryman will appeal to people who like small cars, not small trucks.
The Countryman measures 162 inches long, 15 inches longer overall than the original MINI, on a wheelbase that is 5 inches longer. So back seat passengers can be closer to adult size. Or fold the back seat and have 41 cubic feet of space for stuff.
Even though the Countryman is longer and heavier than the original MINI, it's still quite a bit smaller than other SUVs with AWD, like the Nissan Rogue, Honda CR-V or Subaru Forester. The Countryman's overall length is similar to the Honda Fit. In other words, the Countryman will be among the smallest cars sold in USA.
The Countryman will feature a standard 1.6L gas engine (121 hp, 118 lb-ft) and a six speed manual transmission. The turbocharged S model will have 181 hp, and 177 lb-ft. and a limited slip differential separating the front wheels. There are no plans to import the MINI diesel engine to USA.
An all wheel drive system is available at extra cost. The "All4" drive uses a hydraulic clutch pack that transfers power automatically when the fronts start to slip. The All4 models will have an increase in ride height, too.
The Countryman model will be available in Europe this Summer, and in USA starting about a year from now. Pricing was not announced.
I know, you're thinking, "If I want a small 4x4 I'll buy a Jeep Wrangler." The MINI Countryman will appeal to people who like small cars, not small trucks.
