MINI takes on a new market with its Countryman model now-on sale in Australia.
Featuring a four-wheel-drive variant and four doors, the Countryman squares-off against vehicles like the Audi Q5. There are diesel-powered all-wheel-drive MINI Countryman models, but we don’t think you’ll see too many in the bush hauling bales of hay.
However, with its starting price of $37,700 and luggage capacity of 1,170-litres, the MINI Countryman might prove to be a headache for the Volkswagen Tiguan.
Inside, the MINI Countryman is sold with four individual seats (the rears slide fore and aft like the fronts) or, for no extra cost, you can specify a three-seat rear bench. The usual MINI sports/luxury features abound and the center rail is included for storage versatility.
Apart from the extra length and four doors, the MINI Countryman stands out from conventional models thanks to its higher ground clearance.
Engines include a turbocharged 1.6-litre petrol (135kW/260Nm), a naturally-aspirated 1.6-litre petrol (90kW/160Nm) or a 1.6-litre turbo-diesel (82kW/270Nm). Drive is via six-speed manual and automatic transmissions.
Typically high-tech, the MINI Countryman boasts standard Dynamic Stability Control, six airbags, EBD and Cornering Brake Control plus a tyre defect warning system.
Both 2WD and AWD versions run McPherson strut front/ multi-link rear suspensions. A sports suspension kit which lowers the MINI Countryman by 10mm is available as an option.
The full range is:
Cooper Countryman $37,700
Cooper Countryman Chilli $43,100
Cooper S Countryman $47,500
Cooper S Countryman Chilli $53,150
Cooper S ALL4 Countryman $50,400
Cooper S ALL4 Countryman Chilli $56,050
Cooper D Countryman $40,950
Cooper D ALL4 Countryman $43,850
