The Mini has always been known as the car that combines fun and functionality (with a powerful performance) and with the unveiling of the brand’s second-gen premium sports activity vehicle (SAV), this continues to prove true. As the largest vehicle in the Mini family, the Cooper Countryman sports a 1.5 litre TwinPower Turbo three-cylinder 136hp/220Nm while the spicier Cooper S Countryman pushes out 192hp/280Nm from a 2.0-litre TwinPower Turbo four-cylinder.
Power is transmitted to the front wheels via a six-speed auto for the former and eight-speed auto — both have Steptronic manual override — for 0-100km/h times of 9.6 seconds and 7.4 seconds respectively. Despite the high power output of the Cooper S Countryman, it manages an average fuel consumption of 6.5 litres per 100 kilometres to the Cooper S’s 6.0 litres per 100 kilometres.
The behaviour of both, however, can be altered via Mini Driving Modes. A rotary switch at the base of the gear selector lever allows for selection between MID, SPORT and GREEN modes. GREEN optimises fuel efficiency while SPORT quickens engine response for a more spirited drive; MID provides a compromise between these two.
Highlights of its sizeable exterior include 18-inch alloys wheels on the Cooper and 19-inch Mini Yours Light Alloy Wheels on the Cooper S — both with run-flat tyres as standard — and new cornering lights which follow the direction of steering. Roof rails for extra cargo such as a roof rack, box or bicycle rack are also standard features.
On the inside, the Mini Connected infotainment system features as a 6.5-inch high resolution screen with smartphone integration and a rear view camera; while the electrically adjustable seats offer a memory function.
A standard convenience feature in the new Countryman is a foot-activated sensor to open and close the tailgate of the 450 litre luggage compartment — increasing to 1,390 litres with the second row of seats folded. Within, one finds a picnic bench large enough to seat two over the loading lip. The Cooper S Countryman further adds comfort access to the sensor-operated automatic tailgate which allows locking and unlocking of the doors with just a touch if the key is in proximity.
Colour choices include Chestnut, Island Blue, British Racing Green, Chili Red, Light White, Melting Silver, Midnight Black and Moonwalk Grey. The powerful Cooper S Countryman also receives an exclusive Thunder Grey scheme.
The all-new Mini Countryman comes with Mini 4 Years Unlimited Mileage Warranty and Free Scheduled Service, and is available in Cooper (RM239,888) and Cooper S (RM269,888) — prices are OTR without insurance.
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