We’ll have much more on the new JCW Countryman in the coming days. Until then click through for a full gallery and official release notes.

Official Release: The second generation of the MINI Countryman is the biggest and most versatile model in the entire range of the tradition-steeped British brand. And another superlative now applies to the power unit of the MINI John Cooper Works Countryman. With an output of 228 hp, it is the most powerful engine ever to be fitted in a MINI: in combination with the standard all-wheel drive system ALL4 and a robust vehicle concept, it ensures that the latest addition to the family of top John Cooper Works athletes takes the MINI experience to a whole new level – in terms of both race track feeling on the road and extreme driving fun over unsurfaced terrain.

The new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman sprints from zero to 60 mph in 6.2 seconds with both the standard 6-speed manual transmission and the optional 8-speed Steptronic Sport Automatic transmission. In doing so it is 0.8 to 0.9 seconds quicker than the MINI Cooper S Countryman ALL4. The superior performance qualities of the new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman are likewise reflected in its elasticity on interim sprints, cornering agility and deceleration performance. These qualities are the product of an overall package that has been compiled based on John Cooper Works racing expertise, including not just the engine and all-wheel drive system but also a sports suspension with 18-inch John Cooper Works light alloy wheels and Brembo sports brake system, special body features to optimize aerodynamic properties and cooling air intake, and a model-specific cockpit with John Cooper Works sports seats. The exceptional standing of the new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman within the premium compact segment is underscored by means of exclusive standard features including MINI Driving Modes, LED headlamps, Comfort Access keyless entry and a 6.5-inch screen with the MINI Connected infotainment system.

The new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman: an overview of the facts and figures.

– 4-cylinder turbo engine with 228 hp and 258 ft lbs torque. – Efficiency-optimized all-wheel drive system ALL4 as standard. – Sports suspension with Brembo sports brake system and 18-inch light alloy wheels. – Engine, suspension and Aerodynamic harmonised based on John Cooper Works racing expertise. – Sprint from zero to 60 mph in 6.2 seconds, 0.8 seconds faster than the MINI Cooper S Countryman ALL4, maximum speed: 145 mph. – John Cooper Works Aerodynamic Kit with especially large air inlets at the front. – Model-specific interior with John Cooper Works sports seats. – Exclusive standard trim include LED headlamps, MINI Driving Modes and Comfort Access. – Five fully fledged seats, and a significant increase in space, luggage compartment size and versatility as compared to the predecessor model. – MINI Connected as a personal mobility assistant for everyday use and when traveling.

More power, more space and more race track feeling on all terrains.

The new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman is the successor to the brand’s first top athlete designed for the compact segment and fitted as standard with the all- wheel drive system ALL4. The new car’s advancement over its predecessor is reflected not just in an output that is increased by 20 hp and the efficiency- optimized design of the ALL4 system but also in enlarged external dimensions and a considerable increase in space, versatility and functionality. With an addition of some 6.7 inches in length and 1.3 in width along with a wheelbase extension of 2.9 inches, space availability on the five fully fledged seats is now significantly optimized. The luggage compartment can be expanded as required from 17.6 cubic feet to as much as 47.6 cubic feet. This makes the new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman a top athlete with all-round qualities that provides extreme driving fun and exceptional versatility – whether on the race track, away from freshly paved highways, in everyday traffic, or over lengthier distances.

World premiere in Shanghai, market launch in spring 2017.

The new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman will be presented to the public for the first time in April 2017 at the Shanghai Motor Show. Vehicles will begin to arrive in U.S. dealerships in April 2017.

Developed from longstanding experience of race tracks and rally trails.

In addition to state-of-the-art technology, the distinctive character of the new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman is also derived from the brand’s longstanding and successful motor racing tradition. It was 55 years ago that the classic Mini clinched its first victory – when the Mini Cooper won the British Touring Car Championship. Since then the name of legendary sports car designer John Cooper has stood for the brand’s racing success and the extreme driving fun it offers on the road. Exactly 50 years after the last of three outright wins by the classic Mini at the Monte Carlo Rally, the new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman now points the way to further success in this discipline. The new edition of this all-rounder provides the basis for the competition vehicle developed by MINI and the X-raid Team for long-distance rallies. The MINI John Cooper Works Rally is set to take on the challenges of the world’s toughest marathon contests, starting with the Dakar Rally in 2017. As such it succeeds the MINI ALL4 Racing, which was developed based on the first generation of the MINI Countryman and won the Dakar Rally four times in succession.

Perfectly harmonised overall package for top performance.

The John Cooper Works brand has been integrated under the MINI umbrella for ten years. This close connection dates back to the early years of the classic Mini, whose sporting talent was discovered and promoted by John Cooper. Today it impacts positively on the extreme driving enjoyment offered by the MINI John Cooper Works Countryman. The engine, transmission, all-wheel drive, suspension, Aerodynamic and cockpit design are not just geared towards top performance, they are also precisely harmonised with the vehicle concept of the new MINI Countryman. As a result, the latest John Cooper Works model is an overall package for thrilling performance, assembled with racing expertise.

Engine: power delivery and sound with racing character.

The 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine installed transversely at the front of the new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman demonstrates performance characteristics inspired by motor racing. It has a specific version of MINI TwinPower Turbo Technology with a turbocharging system integrated in the cast steel manifold, petrol direct injection, the fully variable valve control system VALVETRONIC and variable camshaft control (double VANOS). Made of highly temperature-resistant material, the turbocharger generates a charge-air pressure which is now increased to 2.2 bar. This creates the basis for highly energetic and long-lasting power delivery. The engine puts its maximum torque of 258 ft lbs on stream at between 1 450 and 4 500 rpm. It delivers its peak output of 228 hp within an engine speed range of 5 000 and 6 000 rpm.

The particular features of the new engine developed for John Cooper Works models include specific pistons, a large charge-air cooler and an additional radiator. In addition there is a sports exhaust system that not only supports the engine’s performance characteristics but also gives them an impressive acoustic and visual dimension. Reduced exhaust gas pressure promotes spontaneous power delivery, while a controllable exhaust flap and the special geometry of the tailpipe help generate the highly emotional sound that is typical of John Cooper Works models. The sports exhaust system also has tapered chrome covers for the dual tailpipes. 6-speed manual transmission as standard, 8-speed Steptronic Sport Automatic transmission as an option.

The standard 6-speed manual transmission is weight-optimized in design as well as exhibiting a high level of internal efficiency and shift comfort. A gear sensor enables active engine speed adaptation for particularly dynamic shifting. Short shifts and the model-specific gear lever knob facilitate precise gear selection. An 8-speed Steptronic Sport Automatic transmissionis optionally available, operated by means of a distinctively designed selector lever as well as shift paddles at the steering wheel. It offers particularly short shift times and a Launch Control function for traction-optimized sprint maneuvers from standing. With ALL4 from the dirt road to the race track.

The performance capacity of the new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman is not just very high, it is also extremely versatile in terms of the potential range of uses. This is due to the ALL4 all-wheel drive system, which not only optimizes traction on unsurfaced terrain such as dirt roads but also enhances ride stability in adverse weather conditions and improves agility when taking bends dynamically on the race track. The system’s electronic control unit is linked to the DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), ensuring a consistently fast and precise response at all times in distributing the drive torque between the front and rear wheels. Thanks to its compact and weight-optimized design, the current version of the ALL4 all-wheel drive system offers a particularly efficient form of variable power distribution. It consists of a power take-off bevel gear on the front axle differential, a dual-section propeller shaft and a rear axle differential with an electrohydraulically controlled hang-on clutch. In order to reduce the torque loss that occurs when drive power is transferred to the rear axle, the new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman uses active DSC with the brand’s characteristic front- wheel drive in normal situations on the road. Only when necessary does the hang- on clutch relay drive torque to the rear wheels within a fraction of a second.

Sports chassis for maximum agility when sprinting, on bends and during braking maneuvers.

The high-quality suspension technology of the new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman offers the perfect basis for maximum performance and enthralling handling properties. It is designed to harmonise with the extremely high engine output of this versatile top athlete as well as its long wheelbase, large track and low centre of gravity. A single-joint spring strut axle at the front is combined with a multilink rear axle in a model-specific version. What is more, the optional sports suspension of the new MINI John Cooper Works Clubman features a particularly tight set-up of the suspension and damping systems. The speed-related Servotronic steering support – likewise a standard feature – promotes precise handling on bends and comfortable maneuvering at low speeds.

The sports brake system was designed in collaboration with specialist manufacturer Brembo and comprises 4-piston fixed-calliper disc brakes on the front wheels, guaranteeing consistently high deceleration rates even when subjected to intense use. The brake callipers are finished in red and bear the John Cooper Works logo at the front. The Dynamic Stability Control system also ensures optimum traction on sprints, agility on bends and safe deceleration. Its functions include Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), Electronic Differential Lock Control (EDLC) – which acts as an electronic locking function for the front axle differential – and Performance Control for agile turning when taking bends at speed. The standard trim also includes 18-inch John Cooper Works light alloy wheels in Black Thrill Spoke. John Cooper Works 19” light alloy wheels are optionally available.

MINI Driving Modes and Dynamic Damper Control enable an individualised vehicle set-up.

The standard MINI Driving Modes enable a vehicle set-up that is geared towards both the situation on the road and the driver’s individual preferences. A rotary switch at the base of the gear or selector lever is used to activate the settings SPORT, MID and GREEN. This influences the characteristic curves of the accelerator pedal and steering, the engine acoustics, the shift characteristics of the 8-speed Steptronic Sport Automatic transmission, if the latter is fitted, and the Dynamic Damper Control set-up. The characteristics of the electronically controlled dampers are geared to a particularly dynamic driving style in SPORT mode and support a more comfort-oriented style in the other two modes. GREEN mode is designed for comfortable yet efficiency-optimized driving. A supporting feature here is the coasting function, which can be used in conjunction with the 8- speed Steptronic Sport Automatic transmission. In GREEN mode, the drivetrain is decoupled at speeds above 35 mph as soon as the driver’s foot is removed from the accelerator pedal.

Exterior: a clear indication of versatile athleticism.

The exterior design of the new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman expresses the model’s distinctive combination of extreme athleticism and exceptional versatility. With a length of 169.8 inches, a width of 71.7 inches and a height of 61.3 inches, it is unmistakably the biggest top athlete in the family of John Cooper Works models. The typical proportions of a dynamic all-round sports car are further emphasised by model-specific features, in particular including the John Cooper Works Aerodynamic Kit. Key elements of the car’s powerful appearance include the large cooling inlets in the front apron, which take up the space normally reserved for parking lights and fog lamps in other variants of the new MINI Countryman. The standard roof rails and the model-specific roof spoiler underscore both the height of the body and the fact that its design is geared towards optimum aerodynamic balance.

The side turn indicator surrounds known as side scuttles bear a red accentuation line and the John Cooper Works logo, as does the hexagon radiator grille with characteristic honeycomb pattern; the logo also appears on the tailgate. There are four non-metallic and six metallic variants to choose from for the body finish of the new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman. Here, Rebel Green is an option reserved exclusively for John Cooper Works models as is the contrasting paint finish for the roof and exterior mirror caps in Chili Red.

Interior: more space for racing passion.

Inside the new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman, the versatile performance qualities can be experienced on five fully fledged seats and in a characteristic sports car atmosphere. In addition to John Cooper Works sports seats with integrated headrests, features such as the John Cooper Works sports steering wheel with multifunction buttons, the John Cooper Works gear or selector lever and the roof liner in anthracite all contribute to the car’s intense feeling of racing flair.

A distinctive cockpit design is combined with optimized space and a high degree of versatility. Head, shoulder and leg room are significantly more generous than in the predecessor model, both at the front and the rear. The rear seats can be shifted longitudinally by up to 5.1 inches in a 60 : 40 split, while additional versatility is provided by backrest elements that are tilt-adjustable and foldable in a 40 : 20 : 40 split. One unique option for pit stops in distinctive MINI style is the Picnic Cushion, a flexible surface that folds out of the luggage compartment and provides seating for two people.

Exceptional athlete with exclusive fittings.

The exceptional standing of the new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman both in the premium compact segment and the brand’s model program is underscored by its exclusive equipment items. The standard LED headlamps optimize visibility when driving in the dark as well as giving the appearance of the car’s front section a striking contour. The daytime driving light is generated by a band of light running entirely around each headlamp, likewise using LED technology. Standard features also include panorama glass roof, Comfort Access keyless entry, rear Park Distance Control parking sensors, rearview camera, and the MINI Connected infotainment system with a 6.5-inch screen in the central instrument that displays a start motif specific to John Cooper Works when the driver gets in the car.

Modern driver assistance systems, high-quality options for comfort and individual style.

The driver assistance systems developed for the current model generation enhance comfort and safety in the new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman, too. The optional Driving Assistant system includes collision warning with city braking function, camera-based active cruise control, pedestrian warning with initial brake function, high beam assistant and road sign detection. Other features to choose from include Park Distance Control with sensors at the front and Parking Assistant with automatic steering for parallel parking maneuvers. In addition to information on speed, speed limits, current navigation directions, feedback from the driver assistance systems, and lists of telephone contacts and entertainment programs, it is also possible to display the currently selected gear and a multi- coloured engine speed scale on the special John Cooper Works Head-Up Display.

Central instrument with touchscreen, MINI Find Mate and MINI County Timer.

Other options include the Harman Kardon hi-fi audio system, and an 8.8-inch touchscreen navigation system. The touchscreen navigation system also comes with the Touch Controller in the center console and MINI Find Mate, one of the latest digital services to be added to MINI Connected. MINI Find Mate consists of two tags with a wireless Bluetooth tracking function that can be attached to commonly used objects and travel items, enabling them to be conveniently located via MINI Connected. If the tag is located outside the wireless range, the most recently registered position is displayed on the on-board computer and on the driver’s smartphone. As soon as the smartphone or vehicle moves back into the tag’s wireless range, the tag can be activated and acoustically located.

MINI Connected, the digital personal mobility assistant.

The new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman also demonstrates fascinating performance and great versatility in the area of connectivity. Going beyond the familiar functions of an in-car infotainment program, MINI Connected acts as a personal mobility assistant in the top athlete of the model range, too. Based on a flexible platform, the Open Mobility Cloud, MINI Connected integrates the vehicle seamlessly into the MINI driver’s digital life via touchpoints such as the Apple iPhone and Apple Watch. Thanks to the integral concept of MINI Connected, mobility doesn’t start in the vehicle. MINI Connected informs the driver of the optimum departure time based on calendar entries and current traffic data. Address data and appointments saved by the driver previously on a smartphone via MINI Connected are automatically transferred to the car and do not have to be entered in the navigation system again. MINI Connected can also save regularly visited places as favourite destinations, and it detects frequently covered routes such as the daily run between home and work so as to be able to inform the driver in the event of unexpected traffic delays.

As the new generation of the MINI Countryman sees its premiere, the tradition-steeped British brand continues its advance into the premium compact segment. The new MINI Countryman is the biggest and most versatile model in the brand’s 57-year history. Having been completely newly developed, it now reflects considerable advancements in the areas of space, functionality, athletic flair and premium characteristics. The new MINI Countryman achieves its unique standing among direct competitors due to its powerfully expressive design, efficiently shaped bodywork and in particular its unmatched driving agility. The latest version of the ALL4 all-wheel drive system ensures driving fun beyond paved roads, too. What is more, the new MINI Countryman is the first model of the brand to be available with a plug-in hybrid drive. In the form of the MINI Cooper S E Countryman ALL4 it has a range of up to 24 miles* running on electrical power alone.   The new MINI Countryman – an overview of the innovations.

• Powerful proportions, 7.8 inches longer than its predecessor.
• Five fully-fledged seats, clear increase in space and versatility.
• Power opening and closing tailgate
• MINI Picnic Bench: fold-out load loading sill cushion as a comfortable seat on the luggage compartment lid and for general outdoor use
• MINI Cooper S E Countryman ALL4: the first ever MINI with plug-in hybrid drive
• New generation of engines and gearboxes, efficiency-optimized all-wheel drive system ALL4.
• Central instrument with touchscreen function for the first time.
• MINI Country Timer measures driving fun over demanding terrain.
• MINI Connected App as a personal assistant on a day-to-day basis and when traveling.
• MINI Find Mate: everything you need on board at all times – or in view.

More than seven inches longer than the predecessor model. The new MINI Countryman is some 7.8 inches longer than its predecessor and approximately one inch wider. Its wheelbase has been extended by 2.9 inches. This growth results in significantly increased space on five fully-fledged seats as well as a definite increase in storage volume and luggage transport versatility. The raised seating position ensures an excellent view and hallmark driving fun. The base of the rear seats can slide fore and aft longitudinally by up to 5 inches, . The rear backrest is comprised of three sections that can be reclined by passengers or folded flat independently of one another in a 40:20:40 split to accommodate many different combinatinos of passengers and cargo. The luggage compartment volume is 17.6 cubic feet and can be extended as required to a total of 47.6 cubic feet. This constitutes a maximum increase of 5.4 cubic feet as compared to the predecessor model. Five seats in the interior, two on the Picnic Bench. A power opening and closing tailgate is available as an option. The standard storage package comprises not only an adjustable-height cargo area floor, lashing eyes and tension straps but also a stainless steel insert on the loading sill. One unique option is the Picnic Bench – an upholstered, padded cushion that folds out of the luggage compartment and provides seating atop the rear bumper for two people while the vehicle is parked. World premiere in LA, market launch in February 2017. The new MINI Countryman sees its world premiere at the Los Angeles Auto Show on 15 November 2016. The market launch in Europe follows in February 2017. From March 2017 onwards the new MINI Countryman will also be taking roads and tracks by storm outside Europe. The U.S. market launch will take place in March 2017 for the Cooper, Cooper ALL4, Cooper S and Cooper S ALL4 variants and in June 2017 for the plug-in hybrid Cooper S E ALL4. MINI Countryman: a successful model with traditional roots. Even with its model designation, the new edition of the MINI Countryman remains firmly rooted in the tradition of the British brand. A particularly versatile variant of the classic Mini once bore the same name back in the 1960s. Just like the identically constructed Morris Mini Traveller, the Austin Seven Countryman had a highly versatile interior, and the version with wood frame panelling – popularly known as “Woody” – attained cult status that it continues to enjoy to this day. The MINI Countryman likewise offered additional ways of enjoying the brand’s hallmark driving fun when it was launched in 2010. It was the first MINI with four doors, a large tailgate, five seats and optional all-wheel drive and a total of more than 540,000 were sold worldwide. ,000 were sold worldwide. Powerful proportions, matured character. The latest generation of the MINI Countryman goes even further in terms of the model’s versatility, agility and premium character. Thanks to its powerful proportions, the new MINI Countryman has a particularly distinctive presence. Its unmistakable aura is defined by an extended ground clearance and raised seating position, further emphasised by the MINI ALL4 exterior look and high roof rails. The new MINI Countryman features design elements that are typical of the brand, including the clear three-way structure of the side view – broken down into roof, glass section and main corpus – as well as the short overhangs, large wheel arches and downward increase in width. Precise contours on the generous surfaces create an attractive play of light and shade that underscores the car’s athletic shaping and the vertical orientation of the body. The selection of body finishes includes the two brand new colors: Island Blue and Chestnut. “The new MINI Countryman has essentially grown in size. But it was still possible to retain the typical MINI proportions,” says Julius Schluppkotten, MINI Countryman project manager. Numerous model-specific design elements such as the striking helmet roof, the upright rear lights, the hexagonal radiator grille and the large headlamps have undergone evolutionary development. The side turn indicator surrounds known as side scuttles exhibit a new arrow-like shape. The roof rails in satin-finished aluminium are combined with silver-colored side sill tops, thereby lending greater visual emphasis to the car’s height. Horizontal lines dominate at the rear, with the vertically arranged light units providing an appealing contrast. LED headlamps with peripheral daytime driving light ring for the first time. The striking profile of the headlamp units deviates from the circular shape that is otherwise typical of the brand. Their distinctive, slightly asymmetrically rounded contour goes together with the radiator grille to produce an unmistakable front view. In conjunction with the standard LED headlamps (optional for Cooper and Cooper ALL4), daytime driving lights are generated for the first time by a band of light running entirely around each headlamp. More space for premium ambience. In the interior of the new MINI Countryman, a clear increase in space, refined premium ambience and a modern display and operating concept reflect the progress achieved through the change of generation. Both driver and front passenger benefit from extended head and shoulder space, while the adjustment range of the seats has also been enlarged. Power-adjustable driver and front passenger seats are available as an option, and include power-adjustable lumbar support and a memory function on the driver’s side. The narrow body columns and the high seating position make for optimum visibility when maneuvring. At the rear of the new MINI Countryman there are three fully-fledged seats. The rear door openings have been enlarged as compared to the predecessor model, now enabling a more convenient entrance and exit. In addition to interior width, leg space is now significantly more generous, too. The extensive storage facilities likewise contribute to the car’s optimized functionality. At both front and rear there are door pockets that hold one-liter beverage bottles. The fully-fledged center console extending up to the instrument panel has an integrated storage compartment and two cup holders in front of the transmission lever. The MINI Connected controller and the switch for the electrical parking brake are also positioned on the center console. “The interior of the new MINI Countryman emphasises the car’s suitability for families and as a primary vehicle. The sense of quality in the interior has been significantly enhanced, too” says Julius Schluppkotten, MINI Countryman project manager. Distinctive cockpit design.With a clear horizontal structure, stretched lines and generously sized surfaces, the distinctively designed cockpit emphasises the solid character of the new MINI Countryman. The profile of the air vents echoes the vertical orientation of the exterior design elements. In addition to the high-quality materials and precise finish, the modern, ergonomically optimized controls contribute to the car’s exclusive ambience. The hallmark central instrument is integrated in the instrument panel and can, if equipped, incorporate an interactive and custom- configurable LED ring that provides illumination in response to driving situations by way of control feedback. This optional feature also comes with LED ambient lighting and a projection of the MINI logo from the exterior mirror on the driver’s side when opening and closing the car. Market launch with two engines. The new edition of the MINI Countryman lines up for the start featuring entirely newly developed engine technology. For the market launch there are two petrol of the latest generation available to choose from, each with MINI TwinPower Turbo Technology:

• MINI Cooper Countryman: 3-cylinder engine, output: 134 hp, max. torque: 162 ft-lbs.
• MINI Cooper S Countryman: 4-cylinder engine, output: 189 hp, max. torque: 207 ft-lbs.

Both engines, whether configured for front-wheel drive or ALL4 all-wheel drive, come standard with 6-speed manual transmissions. The Cooper S Countryman, Cooper S Countryman ALL4, and Cooper Countryman ALL4 are available with an optional 8-speed Steptronic automatic transmission, and the front-wheel-drive Cooper Countryman is offered with a 6-speed Steptronic automatic transmission. Soon after the launch of the new MINI Countryman, the range will expand to include the first ever MINI with plug-in hybrid drive: MINI Cooper S E Countryman ALL4: 3-cylinder gasoline engine, output: 134 hp, synchronous electric motor, output: 87 hp, system output: 221 hp. The latest generation of engines and transmissions gives the new MINI Countryman a perceptible increase in temperament as well as measurable improvements in terms of driving performance figures. For example, the new MINI Cooper S Countryman ALL4 with 8-speed Steptronic transmission sprints in 7.0 seconds from zero to 60 mph – making it 0.7 seconds faster than its predecessor model. The new all-wheel drive system ALL4: fast and precise, compact and efficient. The new MINI Countryman also achieves outstanding efficiency figures in conjunction with the all-wheel drive system ALL4, which is optionally available for all engine variants. The new version of the all-wheel drive system not only reacts quickly and precisely to changing situations, it is also compact and offers a high level of internal efficiency. It consists of a power take-off unit integrated in the front axle differential, a propeller shaft leading to the rear axle and a hang-on clutch that ensures precisely measured transmission of the drive torque to the rear wheels. The system’s electronic control is interconnected with the Dynamic Stability Control DSC, so it detects any need to adapt power distribution early on. In this way, ALL4 optimizes both traction and stability in adverse weather and road surface conditions, as well as ensuring improved agility when taking bends in dynamic style. Electric and electrifying: the MINI Cooper S E Countryman ALL4. In addition to this, the new generation of the MINI Countryman also paves the way to driving fun that is locally emissions-free. The plug-in hybrid drive of the MINI Cooper S E Countryman ALL4 enables purely electric driving at a top speed of 75 mph. The spontaneously initiating, long-lasting and virtually noiseless power delivery of the electric motor provides an entirely new, ground-breaking perspective on the hallmark MINI go-kart feeling. No less fascinating is the precisely controlled interaction between the electric motor and the combustion engine of the MINI Cooper S E Countryman ALL4. The 87 hp electric motor directs its power via a single-speed transmission to the rear axle while a 3-cylinder gasoline engine with an output of 134 hp connected to a 6-speed Steptronic automatic transmission drives the front wheels. This combination produces an electrified all-wheel drive that ensures an optimum balance between driving fun and efficiency at all times. Driving fun made to measure: Dynamic Damper Control and MINI Driving Modes. The high-quality suspension of the new MINI Countryman combines the tried-and- tested principle of a single-joint spring strut axle at the front and a multilink rear axle with a design that is optimized for weight and rigidity as well as a model- specific set up. This lays the foundation for precise handling properties and maximum agility. In addition to this there is an electromechanical steering with Servotronic function, powerful brakes and Dynamic Stability Control DSC. The new MINI Cooper Countryman and Cooper Countryman ALL4 come standard with 17- inch light alloy wheels, while the Cooper S and Cooper S ALL4 are fitted with 18- inch light alloy wheels as standard. The program of optional extras includes other light alloy wheel designs in sizes of up to 19 inches. Dynamic Damper Control is optionally available for the new MINI Countryman. Two program maps can be activated for the electronically controlled dampers via the likewise optional MINI Driving Modes. A rotary switch at the base of the gear or selector lever enables the driver to select a set-up according to one of the three modes MID, SPORT and GREEN. This also influences the accelerator pedal and steering curve, the operating mode of electrically powered comfort features and the engine sound and shift characteristics of the Steptronic transmission, depending on engine and fittings.

transmission, depending on engine and fittings. Premiere: central instrument with touchscreen display. The standard fittings of the new MINI Countryman include Radio MINI Visual Boost with 6.5-inch color display and MINI Connected, Bluetooth support for telephone and audio streaming, and a rich 6-speaker audio system. Options include a powerful 12-speaker Harman/Kardon hi-fi audio system, and a new 8.8- inch touchscreen navigation system featuring a redesigned user interface and operating system. Modern driver assistance systems, high-quality options for increased comfort. Driving fun in the new MINI Countryman is based not just on versatility but also on safety and comfort. The standard rear view camera and rear Park Distance Control can be extended to include front parking sensors and the Parking Assistant feature for easy parallel parking. Optional MINI Driving Assistant includes collision warning with city braking function, camera-based adaptive cruise control, pedestrian warning with initial brake function, high beam assistant and road sign detection. The program of standard equipment items further includes a deal-zone automatic climate control system, a panorama glass sun roof, automatic headlights, rain- sensing windshield wipers, and Comfort Access keyless entry. The broad range of exterior paint finishes, seat upholstery types and interior surfaces enables individualisation of the new MINI Countryman in a way that reflects personal style. With the MINI Yours Interior Styles option available in three variants, the striking interior surface design in the cockpit is highlighted by means of backlit decorative strips. New from MINI Connected: personal mobility assistant and MINI Find Mate. Connectivity also moves into a new dimension with the launch of the new MINI Countryman. MINI Connected now goes beyond the familiar in-car infotainment functions to become a personal mobility assistant as part of a holistic concept that provides support for individual mobility planning outside the vehicle, too. Based on a flexible platform, the Open Mobility Cloud, MINI Connected integrates the vehicle seamlessly into the MINI driver’s digital life via touchpoints such as the Apple iPhone and Apple Watch. At the heart of this connectivity in the new MINI Countryman lies MINI Connected, the personal mobility assistant available to MINI drivers with new innovative services as of November 2016. Here, individual mobility planning enables punctual, stress-free arrival at appointments. And mobility doesn’t start in the car: MINI Connected informs the driver of the optimum departure time based on calendar entries and current traffic data. Address data and appointments saved by the driver previously on a smartphone via MINI Connected are automatically transferred to the car and do not have to be entered in the navigation system again. MINI Connected can also save regularly visited places as favorite destinations and it detects frequently covered routes such as the daily run between home and work so as to be able to inform the driver in the event of unexpected traffic delays. Another new feature in the area of connectivity is MINI Find Mate. Included with the 8.8-inch touchscreen navigation system, Find Mate consists of two tags with a Bluetooth wireless tracking function that can be attached to frequently used objects and travel items such as bags, cases, key rings and rucksacks. MINI Find Mate is able to detect the presence or absence of any such objects connected to the system that the driver wants to be sure not to forget: tracking is done not only on the on-board computer of the MINI Countryman but also on a smartphone. Providing there is a Bluetooth connection with the tag, an acoustic signal can be activated in the car or on the smartphone to help locate the object. If the tag is outside the Bluetooth range, the driver can be guided to the place at which a connection was last detected.

 

Munich (DE). Vladimir Vasilyev and his co-driver Konstantin Zhiltsov in the MINI ALL4 Racing have won stage five at the 2015 Dakar Rally. The two Russians, who won the FIA World Cup for Cross Country Rallies in the MINI ALL4 Racing in 2014, turned out to be the best navigators on the challenging 458 kilometre long special stage, moving up four places in the overall classification. They are now in a strong seventh position.

Nasser Al-Attiyah/Mathieu Baumel (QT/FR) were fourth quickest today and extended their lead in the overall classification. The experienced offroad duo, which finished 3rd overall last year, is now 10:35 minutes ahead of their closest rivals De Villiers/Von Zitzewitz.

On leg five the Dakar had to master the unforgivable Atacama Desert in Chile. The 697 kilometre-long route lead from Copiapo to Antofagasta. The special stage was held on loose gravel as well as huge dunes with extremely fine “fesh fesh” sand at an altitude of up to 3,000 metres above sea level. The constantly changing soil was extremely demanding for the tires, thus a lot of drivers suffered tire failures.

Six MINI ALL4 Racing finish within the top ten

MINI made the best out of the tough conditions and finished the day on a high note: Six MINI ALL4 Racing cars were within the top ten, including Krzysztof Holowczyc/Xavier Panseri (PL/FR) who were seventh quickest and moved up to fourth place overall. Joan ”Nani” Roma (ES) and his co-driver Michel Périn (FR) finished in 8th position.

Erik van Loon/Wouter Rosegaar (NL/NL) were in ninth moving up another place in the overall classification. They are now in an excellent fifth position. Orlando Terranova/Bernardo Graue (AR/AR) in the MINI ALL4 Racing completed the top ten today.

Leg six on Friday will lead from Antofagasta further north to Iquique. The 277 kilometre long stage six will be comparatively short but very intense. The drivers have to master large dunes with fine sand again. Navigation will be the key factor to success as many of the dunes will look the same.

Overall classification after leg 5 (Top 5)

01 Al-Attiyah/Baumel – MINI ALL4 Racing – 16:53:26h
02 De Villiers/Von Zitzewitz – 17:04:01h
03 Al Rajhi/Gottschalk – 17:13:55h
04 Holowczyc/Panseri – MINI ALL4 Racing – 17:42:21h
05 Van Loon/Rosegaar – MINI ALL4 Racing – 17:46:51h

MINI Motorsport

With several new and reinstated stages, the Dakar Rally is the ultimate challenge for those taking part. From merciless gravel sections to the breathtaking heights of the Andes, and from the sweltering heat of the Atacama Desert to the tricky soft sand dunes, competitors are often heading into the unknown, facing unforeseen obstacles.

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The Dakar Rally is the ultimate orienteering challenge and endurance test. Drivers lose (on average) an enormous 65 litres of sweat and 66,300 calories during the entire race*. The key to a team’s success is their stamina and experience, with no driver under the age of 35 ever having won the race. In fact, over half of those who enter don’t finish the race.

For 2015, the world’s toughest race is going back to its origins, opening up the exhausting marathon stage to all classes for the first time since the rally moved to South America in 2009. This gruelling leg of the race, which takes place in Bolivia, is two whole race days where competitors are left to fend for themselves. The participants cannot call upon their support teams during this time and have to carry out any repairs and maintenance work to the cars themselves.

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The participating pairs, drivers and their co-drivers, have a lot of unique skills the Rally puts to the test. Unlike standard rallying, the crews in the Dakar Rally don’t know the route until the night before when the co-driver is given his Roadbook. The Roadbook is the key to the race with the route, dangers highlighted and the different terrains the car must negotiate included.

Dakar legends, Nani Roma and his experienced co-driver Michel Périn, a four-time Dakar winner himself, are aiming to defend their crowns as the ‘Kings of Dakar’ in the black and green MINI ALL4 Racing car.

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Nani Roma said: “The Dakar Rally is the most physically and mentally challenging rally in the world. After doing it 18 times it runs through my blood. Winning the 2014 Dakar Rally in the MINI ALL4 Racing was very special to me because it came exactly ten years after my first Dakar victory,” says Roma who also won the 2004 Dakar Rally on a motorcycle.

“The MINI ALL4 Racing has been strong from start to finish. It is the way we know the MINI to be: powerful, reliable and fast. It has been a key factor in making my most recent Dakar victory possible. It will be a pleasure to be back in the MINI as I am looking forward to the 2015 Dakar Rally – ready to defend my title.”

In the 2nd round of the championship, the Baja Russia, local favourite Vladimir Vasilyev finished second in the MINI ALL4 Racing, which is based on the MINI John Cooper Works Countryman and fourth at the 3rd round, the Baja Italy. His young team-mate Martin Kaczmarski (PL) came home fourth and fifth.

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There will be a much larger contingent of MINI ALL4 Racings on display in Abu Dhabi. The X-raid team will run six cars in the desert. Among the drivers in action is Dakar winner Joan “Nani” Roma (ES), who returns to the cockpit for the first time since his triumph at the toughest rally in the world back in January of this year. The Spaniard arrives as defending champion, having won last year’s Desert Challenge.

The Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge was first held in 1991. This year’s demanding route takes the competitors on a 2,015.8-kilometre trek through the desert. The conditions are very similar to those encountered at the Dakar Rally: fine desert sand, in which the cars can easily become stuck. This season, the MINI ALL4 Racing has already proven on more than one occasion that it can reliably, and seemingly effortlessly, overcome these extreme conditions.

Official Release: He has done it! Joan “Nani” Roma (ES) in the yellow MINI ALL4 Racing has won the 2014 Dakar Rally. The Monster Energy X-raid Team driver finished the toughest rally challenge in the world just 5:32 minutes in front of his teammate Stéphane Peterhansel (FR) in the black MINI ALL4 Racing. Nasser Al-Attiyah (QT) in the predominantly white MINI ALL4 Racing finished 3rd. The podium was firmly in hand of the MINI cars, which once again proved to be reliable and fast throughout the whole event.

It was the first win for Nani Roma in a car at the Dakar Rally. The Spaniard had already won the event on a motorbike when it was still held in North Africa in 2004. “I’m so relieved and happy,” Roma said. “It was my big goal to win the Dakar not only on a motorbike but also in a car. A dream came true for me and I want to thank everybody at X-raid and MINI for their great work!”

Roma, who has been leading the overall classification at this year’s event for nine days, winning two stages in total, continued: “The MINI ALL4 Racing is a brilliant car and was extremely reliable and quick throughout the whole rally. It was fun to drive! Also a big thank you to my co-driver Michel Périn, who was a great navigator again! A great result for MINI, now it’s time to celebrate!”

The 2014 Dakar Rally was one of the toughest of all time. The 9,374 km-long route led from Rosario (AR) across the Andes and the challenging Atacama desert to Valparaíso (CL) at the Pacific coast. The drivers had to face a lot of different weather conditions and soils. Gravel in the Andes and a lot of extremely fine sand in the hot Atacama desert. MINI mastered all the challenges and won 11 of the 13 stages. It was the third win in a row since MINI made its debut at the Dakar Rally in 2011.

The great reliability of the MINI ALL4 Racing, which is based on the MINI John Cooper Works Countryman, was underlined by the fact that all eleven cars that had started into the event crossed the finish line in Valparaíso. Seven of them finished in the top-ten, including the ones of Monster Energy X-raid Team Orlando Terranova/Paulo Fiúza (AR/PT), who finished 5th overall, and Krzysztof Holowczyc/Konstantin Zhiltsov (PL/RU), who crossed the line 6th overall.

MINI at the 2014 Dakar Rally.
A total of eleven MINI ALL4 Racing compete in the 2014 Dakar. All are based on the MINI John Cooper Works Countryman, modified by the factory-supported X-raid Team to meet the high demands of the Dakar Rally which is today’s pinnacle of off-road motorsports. With a combination of power, reliability and efficiency the MINI ALL4 Racing proved its competiveness right from its first Dakar start in 2011 while also winning the hearts of the fans from the word go. On only its second Dakar appearance, the MINI ALL4 Racing made the big breakthrough by winning the 2012 Dakar Rally. In 2013 the MINI brand proved that its Dakar success was no flash in the pan by defending its title at the first attempt.

Source: MINI