MINI John Cooper Works Countryman expands the MINI family
Munich - Now comes the
latest introduction of a new model to wear the badge of MINI’s John
Cooper Works sub-brand took place with the
MINI John Cooper Works Countryman.
For the first time, race-bred thrills can be experienced
in combination with the transfer of power through all four wheels.
The
MINI John Cooper Works Countryman, fitted with the most powerful engine
in the MINI model range and equipped as standard with the ALL4
all-wheel-drive system, assures the driver of extreme driving fun on any
terrain. Powertrain and chassis technology underpinned by extensive
motor sport expertise teams up with the vehicle concept of the first
MINI with four doors, a large tailgate and up to five seats to introduce
the famed handling characteristics and looks of John Cooper Works models
to additional target groups in another new segment.
The MINI Countryman has
displayed its sporting potential in a string of impressive performances
in the World Rally Championship (WRC) – proof, were it needed, that the
brand’s first five-seater shares the racing genes which define the
character of every MINI. Now John Cooper Works has polished these
inherent talents to dazzling effect in a production model.
Within its class, the MINI John Cooper
Works Countryman brings an unrivalled combination of race-focused
powertrain technology, all-wheel drive, premium profile and versatile
interior to the table. And its inimitable style also comes to the fore
through various design features and an exclusive selection of paint
finishes, light-alloy wheels and interior materials. The standard
equipment of the sixth model in the John Cooper Works line-up includes
an aerodynamic kit which lends extra muscle to the front and rear apron,
as well as bespoke side skirts, 18-inch light-alloy wheels and the
sports car cockpit ambience which has become a speciality of John Cooper
Works models.
The power comes from the newly
developed four-cylinder turbocharged engine with 1.6-litre displacement
and maximum output of 160 kW/218 hp. The peak torque is 280 Newton
metres / 207 lb-ft (with overboost: 300 Nm / 221 lb-ft). It is the most
powerful drive unit in the MINI model range, featuring construction
principles and materials adapted specially from race-trim cars;
innovative combination of twin-scroll turbocharger, petrol direct
injection and fully variable valve management based on the BMW Group’s
VALVETRONIC technology.
Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 7.0 seconds shows the
compelling performance. Stand-out efficiency in this output class comes
from the extensive range of MINIMALISM technology, including Brake
Energy Regeneration, Gear Shift Indicator, Auto Start-Stop function and
Electric Power Steering.Six-speed manual
gearbox fitted as standard, six-speed automatic gearbox with Steptronic
function and steering wheel shift paddles available as an option.
Standard sports exhaust produces stirring soundtrack; standard Sport
Button tweaks the engine’s responses and vocal character.
With short overhangs, a high waistline and
a powerful over-the-wheel stance, the MINI John Cooper Works Countryman
draws its design inspiration from the time-honoured MINI template. The
family ties are also emphasised by styling cues such as the
characteristic contours of the radiator grille, large headlights set
into the bonnet, voluminous wheel arches and vertical rear light
clusters. Features particular to this model include the John Cooper
Works badges on the radiator grille and tailgate, and red-backed,
anthracite-coloured side indicator surrounds on the diagonal link
between the A-pillars and the front wheel arches. Customers can choose
from a selection of seven exterior paint shades. The contrast paint
finish for the roof and exterior mirror can be ordered in the red shade
exclusive to John Cooper Works models, as well as white and black. Sport
Stripes in the same colours are available as an option.
