All-new MINI Countryman revealed
MINI will launch a new, larger Countryman crossover next February, with a range set to include the brand’s first plug-in hybrid from the summer.
The 2017 Countryman will be MINI’s first plug-in hybrid.
Repositioned alongside the Clubman, the new Countryman shares its platform and engines with the BMW X1 and will give MINI a rival for products such as the Audi Q3, Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class and Range Rover Evoque. Prices start at £22,465.
Traditionally the second largest-selling bodystyle after the hatchback, and an important fleet model for MINI, the increased size means it offers three full-size rear seats with larger door openings, a sliding bench and 50% larger boot, accessed via an optional electronically opening tailgate with a fold-out picnic table. As in the Clubman, equipment levels are higher than its predecessor, including satellite navigation as standard.
From launch, the range will comprise four turbocharged engines; two petrol, and two diesel, all available with two or four-wheel drive, and (except the Cooper SD) with either automatic or manual transmissions.
The pair of 2.0-litre diesel engines are the likely big-sellers in fleet. These start with the 148bhp Cooper D, priced from £24,425 and the economy leader at 64.2mpg and 113g/km CO2. They top out with the 188bhp Cooper SD, which is only available with an automatic gearbox and returns 61.4mpg while emitting 121g/km, starting at £28,430.
Petrol options include the 1.5-litre Cooper, which produces 136bhp and returns 51.4mpg with CO2 emissions from 126g/km, and the 192hp 2.0-litre Cooper S, offering up to 45.6mpg and 137g/km with the automatic transmission.
From June, the range will grow to include MINI’s first production electric car. The Cooper S E Countryman utilises the same plug-in hybrid drivetrain as the BMW 225xe; a 1.5-litre petrol engine powering the front wheels, and an 88bhp electric rear axle, supplied by a mains-rechargable battery offering a 25-mile EV range. Pricing is unconfirmed, but 49g/km CO2 emissions will make it an attractive company car.
Alex Grant
Trained on Cardiff University’s renowned Postgraduate Diploma in Motor Magazine Journalism, Alex is an award-winning motoring journalist with ten years’ experience across B2B and consumer titles. A life-long car enthusiast with a fascination for new technology and future drivetrains, he joined Fleet World in April 2011, contributing across the magazine and website portfolio and editing the EV Fleet World Website.
