MINI Countryman is launched in India for the price of Rs 34.90 lakhs (ex-showroom). The Countryman is the compact crossover SUV in MINI’s line-up and was showcased at the 2018 Auto Expo.
In its second generation now, the Countryman is available in three trims - the Countryman Cooper S, Countryman Cooper SD and the Countryman S JCW Inspired. Appearance wise, the Mini Countryman retains the original design of its first generation but has grown in dimension. The compact crossover measures 20mm longer, 30mm wider and has a 75mm longer wheelbase than its predecessor. The ‘bulldog’ style grille is flanked by bulbous LED headlamps. The chrome finish on the grille brings bling to the fascia while the front bumper gets circular fog lamps and contrasting black air-vents. The distinct styling extends to the rear with Mini’s signature tail lamps and a flat roofline. Being a crossover, there’s ample cladding all around the car along with roof rails and skid plates on both the bumpers.
The cabin is typical Mini and has the unmistakable circular infotainment dial dominating the centre console. It is feature loaded as well with steering mounted controls, two-zone climate control, ambient lighting, powered tailgate, park assist, electric seats, heads-up display, run-flat tyres, leather upholstery all come as standard. Safety features include front dual airbags, ABS with DSC, cornering brake control, and brake assist.
The Countryman can be had with two powertrain options. The 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol motor produces 192bhp of power 280Nm of torque and powers the Cooper S and S JCW. Under the hood of the Cooper SD is a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel that puts out 190bhp of power and 400Nm of torque. The eight-speed Steptronic automatic transmission comes as standard.
The Countryman will be locally assembled at BMW’s Chennai plant. It is the British carmaker’s flagship offering which goes up against the entry-level German crossovers like the Mercedes-GLA, Audi Q3 or the BMW X1, although the Mini is slightly cheaper. For the same price tag, the option available also include Volvo V40 Cross Country or Volkswagen Tiguan, both of which are niche products like the Mini. Or if one needs a sedan, there are choices of Audi A3, Mercedes-Benz CLA, or something from the D segment like the Skoda Superb and the Volkswagen Passat. The Toyota Fortuner or Ford Endeavour can get you proper off-road SUVs at the same price of the Mini Countryman.
