Considering the stir created by the first generation MINI Countryman, one cannot help but wonder whether the British marque is, perhaps, venturing too far into unknown territory with the new Countryman that’s even larger than before. Last month, we had the opportunity to attend the launch of the new oversized MINI in Mpumalanga, and walked away appreciating the method behind MINI’s sizing strategy.
At 130 mm longer, 22 mm wider and 80 mm taller than its predecessor, the new (yet not-so-mini) MINI Countryman, seems to slowly be dipping its toes into mid-size SUV territory, earning the ire of some purists. However, even dyed in the wool fans sometimes need to concede to market demands given the ever-changing automotive landscape.
As an example, Porsche, once revered for its pure sports cars, is, today, highly respected for the Macan and the Cayenne, which technically makes Porsche an SUV manufacturer selling sports cars on the side. Car manufacturers have been put in a tight spot to balance tradition and industry conformation. If anything, we, as the consumers, are to blame. But I digress. In the grand scheme, the Countryman still possesses enough MINI characteristics to feel like something other than a market-grab sell-out.
LESS IS MORE DESIGN
A brand such as MINI is bound to its traditional design cues, which are immediately recognisable when you focus on the new Countryman. However, with every update comes changes to the exterior, and the Countryman has been treated to some that take a tastefully minimalist approach. Up front, we get new angular lights that replace the old round lights and a redesigned grille that integrates into the reworked front bumper. The rear gets a redesigned bumper and refreshed lights, which look more modern, while the registration plate has been moved from the tailgate to the bumper. Tying the whole design together are new alloy wheels that have been fashioned from recycled aluminium, staying true to MINI’s commitment to eco-sustainability.
MODERN MEETS TRADITIONAL
MINI interiors have always been quirky, and we are glad to see that the fun characteristics have been recovered. Sure, some mature and modern elements have been injected into the cabin, but it is all the better for it. The interior trimmings blend synthetic leather and a premium fabric-like material with some recycled plastics in the mix. Despite its eco-friendly roots, the cabin feels premium and well put together. Regarding cabin layout, the car boasts a gargantuan centrally mounted 240 mm OLED display. To maximise on-screen real estate, the screen works on a split-screen functionality, displaying driver-related information on the top half.
In contrast, the bottom half displays traditional infotainment content and climate control settings. A pop-up heads-up display faces the driver, which helps keep important driver information within your eyeline without having to glance at the infotainment screen for a second too long.
The rest of the dashboard is simple and spartan, adorned with vertical air vents and a neat “toggle bar” with tactile switchgear positioned below the screen. MINI also found a way to package a wireless charging pad and cup holders in the centre console. Configurable ambient lighting is neatly integrated into the cabin, making it a lovely place to spend time during a night drive. Of course, one would expect increased cabin practicality with increased dimensions, which we can attest to.
DUAL POWER OPTIONS
As far as combustion is concerned, the Countryman was launched with two engines to go with the two launch derivatives, namely the entry-level Countryman C and the sportier Countryman S. The C comes with a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine which produces 115 kw and 250 Nm.
The alternative S, which comes with a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol unit, is tuned to produce 160 kW and 360 Nm. The engine is mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission that delivers power to all wheels for a claimed 7.4-second sprint from zero to 100 km/h and onwards to a 228 km/h top speed. While a JCW and an all-electric model will be followed soon, no diesel or manual versions of the Countryman are expected.
LAST WORD
Purist sentiments aside, there is little to dislike about the Countryman. It offers a cohesive package and an air of British motoring fun in a market where it competes against the likes of the BMW X1 and the Volvo XC40. The car looks good, has a distinctively charming cabin, and still has good driving dynamics.
Report by BRYAN KAYAVHU | Images © MINI SOUTH AFRICA