Tag Archives: Countryman

Car review

Mini Countryman Electric

The countryman has a genuinely well-resolved inside, which might show to be a stand-out function in opposition to the rising ranks of equally sized electrical SUVs. Our Exclusive-trim check automobile was shiny and spacious, with a minimalist design complemented by retro thrives. 

Mini’s designers have used the additional area the platform provides to good impact, so each entrance and rear occupants will discover respectable leg room and will not really feel hemmed in.

The feeling of area is accentuated by wonderful use of supplies, lots of that are partly recycled or recyclable. The material that covers the dashboard felt warming and alluring, and nicer than the ‘sporty’ touches of Sport trim, as we noticed on the John Cooper Works.

As with the John Cooper Works mannequin, the majority of the controls are operated by a spherical OLED touchscreen that dominates the dashboard.

Our check automobile additionally featured an non-obligatory head-up show, and that’s an choice field you’d do nicely to tick, on condition that all the data often seen behind the steering wheel has been shifted to the highest of the touchscreen.

The infotainment system provides eight ‘Experiences’, chosen through a pleasingly tactile toggle beneath the touchscreen (there are additionally retro-styled bodily controls for the gear selector, begin/cease button and quantity management), that every one have an introductory sound and modify the look and structure of the display screen.

There are different adjustments from the ICE model, too. Pick Timeless mode and never solely will your touchscreen turn into a recreation of an authentic 1959 Mini speedo but in addition the motor noise will tackle a refined new tone harking back to a four-cylinder petrol engine.

Again, it’s kind of of a gimmick and will not be to everyone’s tastes, nevertheless it’s understated sufficient to be simply the correct facet of tacky.

As within the JCW, we encountered the odd infotainment glitch, and the way a lot you take pleasure in any Countryman would possibly rely on how touchscreen-tolerant you’re.

BMW

Leipzig loves MINI: BMW Group Plant Leipzig celebrates production launch of MINI Countryman

Leipzig. The MINI Countryman production launch is a significant event, as it is the first MINI to be manufactured in Germany. It will share the production line with the BMW 1 Series and 2 Series, offering combustion-powered, plug-in hybrid, and fully electric options.

The special event celebrating the launch of the MINI Countryman brought together important figures such as BMW AG Board Member for Production, Milan Nedeljković; the Minister President of Saxony, Michael Kretschmer; the head of the MINI brand, Stefanie Wurst; Mayor and Alderman for Business, Work and Digital Affairs, Clemens Schülke; as well as guests from politics, media, and plant employees. The production lines were stopped for almost 45 minutes so that everyone in the plant could witness the live broadcast of the celebration.

The production of the largest MINI model to date is a significant step forward for the future of BMW Group Plant Leipzig. An investment of around €700 million has been made since 2018 to increase capacity and enable the production of the MINI Countryman. Additionally, the third generation of the vehicle will also be available with a fully electric drive. Plant Director Petra Peterhänsel stated, “Leipzig remains electrified.”

Nedeljković stressed the importance of skill and flexibility in the transformation process and highlighted the role of Plant Leipzig in advancing change. He mentioned that all BMW Group plants are capable of producing different models with different drives on a single production line, but what makes Plant Leipzig special is its flexible production system being used for multiple brands for the first time.

Michael Kretschmer, Minister President of Saxony, emphasized the significance of the BMW Group plant in Leipzig for the region and the federal state. He stated, “The BMW site in Leipzig is a success story of modern industrial production and the launch of the MINI Countryman reaffirms the company’s commitment to ‘Autoland’ Saxony.”

Clemens Schülke, Mayor and Alderman for Business, Work and Digital Affairs of the city of Leipzig, expressed his positivity about the event and the impact of the MINI Countryman being produced in Leipzig, calling it a genuine success story.

Stefanie Wurst, head of MINI, discussed the characteristics of the new MINI Countryman, emphasizing its environmental credentials and versatile, powerful, and efficient drives.

Plant Director Petra Peterhänsel highlighted the historical importance of the MINI Countryman for the future of Plant Leipzig, stating that the plant’s headcount will increase by over 1,000 by the end of 2024 as the production of the MINI Countryman ramps up.

Works Council Chairman Jens Köhler spoke about the importance of the plant in Leipzig for the production network and expressed gratitude to the BMW Group for their trust.

The event was hosted by the radio and television presenter Roman Knoblauch, and in addition to the MINI Countryman, a digital friend named Spike was introduced as the Intelligent Personal Assistant to support drivers of the new MINI model family.

MINI Countryman SE ALL4 (combined electricity consumption: 18.5 – 17.0 kWh/100 km according to WLTP; combined CO2 emissions: 0 g/km).

MINI Countryman with combustion engine (combined fuel consumption according to WLTP: 8.3 – 4.8 l/100 km, combined CO2 emissions: 188 – 125 g/km)

*All technical data is provisional.

BMW

One line – two brands – three drives: BMW Group Plant Leipzig launches production of the MINI Countryman

Leipzig. The BMW Group Plant Leipzig has achieved significant milestones as it commences the production of the MINI Countryman. This marks the first time a MINI model is being manufactured in Germany, alongside the BMW 1 Series and 2 Series, demonstrating the plant’s flexibility and adaptability. The BMW Group has invested €700 million over the past five years in preparing the plant for increased production and MINI-specific requirements. The workforce in production is expected to increase by over 900 by the end of 2024. The new MINI Countryman also drives innovations towards sustainable production.

“By launching production of the MINI Countryman here in Leipzig, we are introducing multibrand operations to our flexible production system,” explained Milan Nedeljković, Board Member for Production. “Plant Leipzig also offers a number of highlights in terms of resource conservation in production, providing further evidence of the successful rollout of our long-term masterplan: the BMW iFACTORY.”

Seamless integration through flexible structures 

The BMW Group is leveraging the flexibility of Plant Leipzig to seamlessly integrate the production of the new MINI Countryman alongside the BMW 1 Series, BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé, and BMW 2 Series Active Tourer. The plant’s flexible assembly structures enable the production of two brands with three different drives – combustion, plug-in-hybrid, and fully electric – all on the same production line. The third-generation MINI Countryman will be available with a petrol, diesel, or fully electric powertrain, with the high-voltage batteries for the MINI Countryman Electric also being made in Leipzig, and it’s scheduled to reach dealerships on 17 February 2024.

Investments and recruitment to increase production volume

The BMW Group has made substantial investments in Leipzig to ramp up production volume for new models. This includes expansions and upgrades to the bodyshop, paintshop, assembly, and logistics. Production capacity has been increased from 250,000 units previously to up to 350,000 units a year at present. The investment of around €200 million to adapt the production system to MINI-specific requirements is expected to result in a production capacity of 500 MINI Countryman cars a day during the course of next year, creating up to 900 new jobs in vehicle production alone.

Electromobility and MINI production drive development

Plant Leipzig is transitioning to electromobility, with plans to produce the next fully electric car, the MINI Countryman Electric, and manufacture high-voltage batteries in-house. The plant will run the entire production process for the current fifth generation of high-voltage batteries, with capacity for e-component production increasing since 2021. This makes Plant Leipzig an important supplier across the BMW production network, and it currently employs over 800 people in e-component production, with plans to further develop and invest in this area.

Sustainable materials and production 

The MINI Countryman Electric reflects the MINI brand’s responsible approach to materials and production, with innovations in sustainability. The model features a range of sustainable materials, including the use of recycled textiles in the interior, reducing CO2 emissions along the value chain and requiring less water to manufacture. The model also incorporates a new, resource-friendly painting method for the contrast roof, known as overspray-free painting, which contributes to saving CO2 emissions and energy.

Plant Leipzig – Built for sustainability

Plant Leipzig has a strong focus on efficient processes and a long-term strategy for energy generation and consumption. The plant has four wind turbines that generate electricity, delivering approximately 25 GWh/year, and a battery storage farm equipped with up to 700 second-life high-voltage batteries from BMW i3 vehicles. There are also plans to decarbonize production by replacing fossil fuels with green hydrogen, with a regional hydrogen grid in the works, from which Plant Leipzig is set to benefit.

MINI Countryman SE ALL4 (combined electricity consumption: 18.5 – 17.0 kWh/100 km according to WLTP; combined CO2 emissions: 0 g/km).

MINI Countryman with combustion engine (combined fuel consumption according to WLTP: 8.3 – 4.8 l/100 km, combined CO2 emissions: 188 – 125 g/km)

*All technical data is provisional.

Motorsport

New Mini Countryman John Cooper Works Has More Power And A Go-Kart Mode

Mini has introduced the new John Cooper Works Countryman. Although the battery-electric version was unveiled earlier this year, the JCW variant comes with a combustion engine. The third-generation model boasts additional horsepower compared to the preceding hatchback and showcases a completely new design that highlights its larger size.

Powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and the brand’s ALL4 all-wheel-drive system, the vehicle produces 312 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque in the US. In comparison, the previous-generation variant generated 301 hp and 331 lb-ft of torque.


BMW

Suitable for all types of terrain and completely electric: The MINI Countryman SE ALL4.

The MINI Countryman SE ALL4 is an all-electric vehicle that is perfect for exploring new paths. This spacious crossover model allows for environmentally friendly mobility on a variety of terrains, thanks to its powerful ALL4 all-wheel drive, extended driving assistance features, partially automated Level 2 driving, and an electric range of up to 433 kilometers according to the WLTP test cycle.

The MINI Countryman SE ALL4 features a modern and minimalistic design with sleek surfaces and wider wheel arches. It has grown in size, now measuring 4,433 mm in length, 1,843 mm in width, and 1,656 mm in height. This larger size provides more interior space, with a capacity of up to 1,450 liters for transporting bulky items when the bench is folded down.

Stefanie Wurst, head of MINI, describes the new all-electric MINI Countryman as a versatile and enjoyable vehicle that is also a statement for environmentally friendly mobility. With its increased dimensions, it is suitable for the whole family.

The MINI Countryman SE ALL4 is equipped with fully electric all-wheel drive, powered by two electric motors with a combined output of 230 kW/313 hp and a torque of 494 Nm. These motors can accelerate the vehicle from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.6 seconds and achieve a top speed of 180 km/h. The vehicle’s battery has an energy content of 66.45 kWh.

Rapid charging with DC at up to 130 kW allows the battery to be charged from 10 percent to 80 percent in under 30 minutes. Customers can easily manage the charging process through the MINI app, including setting a fixed departure time and pre-conditioning the vehicle’s interior to the desired temperature. The MINI Countryman SE ALL4 can also be charged with the Plug & Charge system, which automatically starts the charging process at compatible charging stations.

Various innovative assistance systems support the driver while on the road. The MINI Countryman SE ALL4, with its Driving Assistant Professional, enables partially automated Level 2 driving on motorway-like routes. This allows the driver to take their hands off the wheel at speeds of up to 60 km/h, as long as they remain attentive and ready to intervene if necessary.

The design of the MINI Countryman SE ALL4 emphasizes its off-road character and distinctive MINI proportions. The vehicle features a vertical orientation of body details, a distinctive front grille, headlights, and sculptural bonnet. Its short overhangs and slim contouring give it an elegant silhouette.

The MINI Countryman SE ALL4 is available in four trim variants, each with unique exterior and interior features. The interior of the vehicle focuses on advanced technology and high-quality materials. The round OLED display in the cockpit controls the infotainment and assistance systems, and the new MINI Operating System 9 allows for intuitive operation via touch or voice assistant.

The MINI Experience Modes provide immersive driving experiences, with specific graphic elements on the OLED display and special lighting graphics in different colors and patterns. The MINI Driving Sounds in the all-electric MINI Countryman SE ALL4 create a unique ambiance.

The comfort of the driver and passengers has been enhanced in the new MINI Countryman SE ALL4, with increased shoulder and elbow width in the front and rear seats. The cockpit features clear shapes and a two-tone textile design on the dashboard, giving it a modern and clean look. The panoramic glass roof adds brightness and a friendly atmosphere to the interior.

Overall, the MINI Countryman SE ALL4 combines versatility, environmentally friendly mobility, and a modern design to create an enjoyable driving experience.

*All technical data provided are preliminary.

Motorsport

Mini Cooper Hardtop And Convertible Spotted Testing With Traditional Engines

Following the recent introduction of the Mini Cooper and Countryman electric vehicles, new spy shots have captured the brand testing the updated traditional combustion-powered versions of the Cooper hardtop and convertible. These tests took place in Germany.

The traditional gasoline-powered Minis have distinctively different underlying structures compared to their electric counterparts. However, the two variations share similar designs. The front end features a more prominent grille, while the circular headlights have stacked lamps with horizontal running lights in the middle. At the rear, the taillights seem to have undergone some refreshing changes.


Featured

Mini Countryman Shadow Edition Launched In India, Priced At Rs 49 Lakh


Mini is offering only 24 units of the Countryman Shadow edition in India

Mini Countryman Shadow edition

  • The limited edition is based on the sporty Countryman Cooper S JCW model.

  • It gets an all-black exterior with bronze ORVM housings and roof, decals, and 18-inch alloy wheels.

  • Inside, it has tan leather upholstery with silver piping and JCW-exclusive metal pedals.

  • Features onboard include an 8.8-inch touchscreen, wireless phone charging, and dual front airbags.

  • The SUV comes with a 2-litre turbo-petrol engine, mated to a 7-speed DCT.

The festive season has witnessed multiple carmakers across the industry introduce various special and limited editions of their models. Now, Mini has followed suit by bringing out the Mini Countryman‘s Shadow edition, which is based on the Countryman Cooper S JCW model. It is priced at Rs 49 lakh (ex-showroom pan-India) and only 24 units of the compact luxury SUV are on offer.

What’s Different On The Outside?

Being a limited edition, the Countryman Shadow edition gets various unique touches such as an all-black exterior paint option, bronze finish for the ORVMs and roof, and decals on the bonnet and front fenders. Mini has also provided it with 18-inch alloy wheels and ‘Shadow’ edition decals on the roof above the C-pillar. All monikers, including the ‘Countryman’ insignia, are finished in black. Being the JCW (John Cooper Works) edition, it has been fitted with a JCW aerodynamics kit, giving it a sporty stance.

Classy On The Inside

Mini Countryman Shadow edition seats

On the inside, the Mini Countryman Shadow edition retains the SUV’s tan leather upholstery but has contrast silver piping to reflect the limited edition nature. It also has JCW-exclusive metal pedals and Nappa leather finish for the steering wheel.

Mini Countryman Shadow edition panoramic glass roof

In terms of features, the Countryman Shadow edition gets LED ambient lighting as part of Mini’s Excitement Pack as well as puddle lamps. Other equipment onboard the SUV includes a panoramic glass roof, an 8.8-inch touchscreen, a powered tailgate, wireless phone charging, dual-zone climate control, and cruise control. Its safety net includes six airbags, 3-point seatbelts for all passengers, a reversing camera, and cornering brake control.

Also Read: Skoda Slavia Matte Edition Launched At Rs 15.52 Lakh

What’s Under The Hood?

Mini Countryman Shadow edition

The Mini Countryman Shadow edition is offered with a sole 2-litre 4-cylinder turbo-petrol engine (181PS/280Nm). Mini has paired it with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) and says the 5-door crossover SUV can go from 0-100kmph in 7.5 seconds. It has two drive modes: Sport and Green.

Competitors

Mini Countryman Shadow edition rear

The limited edition 5-door Mini Countryman has no direct rivals, but it can be considered as an alternative to the Mercedes-Benz GLA, BMW X1, Volvo XC40, and Audi Q3.

Also Read: Nissan Magnite Kuro Edition Launched, Prices Start From Rs 8.27 Lakh

Read More on : Mini Cooper Countryman Automatic

Motorsport

2024 Mini Countryman EV Arrives in North America, Deliveries to Commence Late Next Year

The electric version of the 2024 Mini Countryman crossover made its debut in North America recently, and it is expected to be available for delivery in the US starting in the autumn of the following year.

Initially unveiled in Europe earlier this month at the IAA Mobility event in Munich, Germany, the third-generation Countryman, now fully electrified, made an appearance at a special panel called “Driving Forward: The Transforming of Future Mobility.” The event was hosted by Mini’s Urban-X technology startup platform at Newlab in the Brooklyn Navy Yard, coinciding with Climate Week NYC.

Although the official press release did not specify which versions of the vehicle will be offered in the United States, we do know from the European reveal that there will be two options manufactured in Germany: the base Countryman E, with a WLTP-rated range of 287 miles, and the more powerful Countryman SE ALL4, which can travel up to 269 miles on a single charge.


Motorsport

2024 Mini Countryman EV Revealed With Up To 287 Miles Of WLTP Range

The all-new electric Mini Countryman has been officially revealed as the brand’s first made-in-Germany model, as well as the largest model in the British marque’s revamped lineup.

The new-generation Countryman measures 174.5 inches (4,433 millimeters) long, 72.5 inches (1,843 mm) wide, and 65.1 inches (1,656 mm) tall. It will be showcased alongside the new Mini Cooper EV at the IAA Munich event starting on September 5.

The electric crossover is 5 inches (130 mm) longer and 2 inches (60 mm) taller than the previous model. It will be available in two power levels: Countryman E and Countryman SE ALL4.

The Countryman E has a WLTP-rated range of 287 miles (462 kilometers) and is equipped with a front-mounted electric motor that delivers 201 horsepower (150 kilowatts) and 184 pound-feet (250 Newton-meters) of torque.

Motorsport

Next-Gen Mini Countryman Spotted at Nurburgring, Possibly John Cooper Works Trim

Mini is providing a sneak peek of the next-generation Countryman while still in development. A recent spy video captures the model being driven aggressively on the Nurburgring race track, showcasing quad tailpipes at the rear.

The automaker is keeping the Countryman’s redesigned appearance under wraps, using camouflaging and cladding to hide the finer details, making it difficult to discern specific changes. The presence of quad tailpipes suggests that this could be the new John Cooper Works variant. Reports are circulating that the sporty model will come equipped with a 1.5-liter three-cylinder plug-in hybrid powertrain, capable of producing 322 horsepower.