Big & Bold: 2017 MINI Countryman crossover
MINI took the wraps off its next-generation 2017 Countryman crossover recently at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The all-new MINI Countryman has been completely redesigned and reengineered from the ground up, yet still is instantly identifiable as a MINI. Now incorporating BMW Group engine technology and vehicle architecture, the all-new MINI Countryman offers an all-turbocharged engine lineup with outstanding acceleration and the famous go-kart driving dynamics – especially when experienced with the added traction that comes from the latest generation of ALL4 all-wheel drive. At the same time, this new architecture delivers excellent ride quality and enables the most spacious MINI interior ever.
Available in Cooper, Cooper ALL4, Cooper S and Cooper S ALL4 models, MINI has also introduced its first plug-in hybrid for the model line: the Cooper S E Countryman ALL4. Although the new MINI Countryman continues the MINI tradition of offering an incredible array of possibilities for custom configuration, it is also the best equipped MINI ever sold, meaning customers will find that the car is already loaded before they’ve added any options.
Every MINI Countryman will come standard with: an expansive Panorama Sunroof, Sensatec Leatherette Upholstery, Comfort Access keyless entry, MINI Connected infotainment system with 6.5-inch high-resolution display, fore-and-aft Sliding Rear Seats with Reclining and 40:20:40 Split-Folding Backrests, and 17-inch light alloy wheels (Cooper) or 18-inch light alloy wheels (Cooper S). Models with ALL4 all-wheel drive also come standard with heated seats. Cooper S models (with and without ALL4) come with standard LED headlights and daytime running lights, bolstered sport seats, and 18-inch light alloy wheels.
Base power is generated by: 1.5L three-cylinder turbo (Cooper); 2.0L four-cylinder turbo (Cooper S); and a 1.5L three-cylinder gasoline turbo, electric motor and 7.6 kWh Lithium Ion battery (Cooper S E ALL4). Torque is communicated through the wheels via a six-speed manual gearbox or eight-speed sport automatic transmission for Cooper and Cooper S. The Cooper S E hybrid is equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission.
The MINI Countryman rides on a rigid body that reduces body torque, freeing the suspension to do what it does best - provide super-tight handling. A flex-free frame also reduces squeaks, rattles, vibrations and cabin noise.
Dimensions & Specifications
Wheelbase: 105.1; overall length: 169.8; width: 71.7; height: 61.3
All vehicle measurements are in inches.
Engine: 1.5L three-cylinder TwinPower turbo – 134 hp at 4400 rpm and 162 lbs-ft of torque at 1250 rpm; 2.0L four-cylinder TwinPower turbo – 189 hp at 5000 rpm and 207 lbs-ft of torque at 1250 rpm; 1.5L three-cylinder TwinPower turbo -134 hp at 4400 rpm and 162 lbs-ft of torque at 1250 rpm and electric motor – 87 hp/122 lbs-ft of torque and 7.6 kWh Lithium ion battery – total hybrid system power 221 hp/284 lbs-ft of torque.
Transmission: six-speed manual, six-speed automatic, eight-speed automatic
Cargo capacity: 47.6 cubic feet
Safety features
Dual front airbags, front seat mounted side-impact airbags, dual head curtain side-impact airbags, traction control, dynamic stability control, daytime driving lights, rear pak distance control, comfort access system, rearview camera, Bluetooth hands-free phone system, rain sensor, and automatic headlights. Cooper S adds LED headlights with cornering lights, LED front foglights, and electronic differential lock control.
Optional safety features include: adaptive cruise control, head-up display, active driving assistant, navigation system, parking assist, and alarm system.
Warranty
Basic: 5-year/60,000 mile Bumper-to-bumper
Powertrain: 10-year/100,000 mile
Corrosion: 7-year/100,000 mile
Roadside Assistance: 5-year/60,000 mile 24-hour
Pricing
The base Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2017 MINI Countryman starts from $26,100 for the Cooper upto $31,100 for the Cooper S ALL4. The MSRP for the MINI Countryman Cooper S E plug-in hybrid will be announced at a later time. Destination charges add $850.
