By Hercules Rodrigues
Mini India has launched the new Mini Cooper Countryman SUV in India and is available in three variants Cooper S, Cooper SD and Cooper S JCW Inspired.
Built on the UKL Platform, the new Mini is now bigger and is locally assembled at BMW’s Chennai plant. The headlights are now bigger and elongated, while the front grille retains the same design but is much more distinctive. The pronounced wheel arches and under body and side cladding add to the new Countryman’s design. The new Mini now rides on larger 17-inch alloy wheels, while the JCW Inspired has 18-inchers.
Inside the Mini Countryman receives the biggest update with improved material quality which feels way more upmarket than its predecessor. The centre console is dominated by a large 6.5-inch Retro Dial which is now touchscreen and the chrome inserts around the toggle switches lift the level of feel when you use them. The seats are now bolstered better and offer more comfort while the rear seats legroom sees an increase in space by 75mm. The Boot now offers 450 litres of cargo space.
When it comes to technology the Countryman is packed to the gills with features Automatic tailgate, run flat tyres, Satellite Navigation system with Bluetooth, Cruise control and Emergency call. The JCW Inspired Mini Countryman adds Rear view Camera, Sporty steering wheel, heads up display, leather cross punch sport seats, wireless charging, Harman Kardon sound system, rear spoiler and stainless-steel pedal covers.
Power for the Mini Cooper Countryman come from a range of engines. The Cooper S and Cooper S JCW Inspired draws power from a 2.0 Litre Twin Power turbo petrol producing 192bhp and 280nm torque. While on the other end the Cooper SD diesel is powered by a 2.0 litre engine churning out 190bhp and 400nm torque. Transmission options include an Eight speed automatic with power sent to the front wheels only. The Petrol engine is capable of doing 0-100kmph in 7.5 seconds while the diesel propels the Countryman from standstill to 100kmph in 7.7 seconds.VariantEx showroomCountryman Cooper S Petrol34.90,000Countryman Cooper S JCW Inspired Petrol41,40,000Countryman SD Diesel37,40,000