First showcased at the 2018 Auto Expo, Mini has now launched the all-new Countryman SUV in India. The model goes up against small luxury SUVs in the market such as the Mercedes-Benz GLA, the Audi Q3 and the BMW X1 and is priced nearly at par with them at Rs 34.90 lakh (ex-showroom, India).
The second-generation Mini Countryman is available in three variants – the Cooper S (Rs 34.90 lakh), Cooper SD (Rs 37.40 lakh) and the sporty Cooper S JCW Inspired (Rs 41.40 lakh). Mini's latest model is now more practical, comfortable and luxurious than the earlier gen Countryman, as we recently found out in our exclusive drive of the Countryman Cooper S.
Styling-wise, the Countryman is a departure from other models in the carmaker's range, although it still looks decidedly Mini and exudes enough retro charm to keep Mini fans interested. It gets aggressive bumpers and chunky cladding around its wheel arches that lend the model a brawny look. The front grille retains the same shape but is now more distinctive. Overall, the vehicle looks massive, when compared to the earlier one.
The new Countryman is underpinned by the same UKL platform as its cousin, the BMW X1, and is available in both petrol and diesel engine options. The petrol engine – which powers the Cooper S and Cooper S JCW Inspired – is a 2.0-litre TwinPower turbo unit putting out 192hp and 280Nm of torque. The diesel, which powers the Cooper SD, is a 2.0-litre motor with an output of 190hp and a torque rating of 400Nm. Power is sent to only the front wheels via an eight-speed automatic gearbox. While the Countryman is offered in the four-wheel-drive or ALL4 versions in international markets, India only gets front-wheel-drive versions.
The new Countryman also has some state-of-the-art tech like the latest iDrive infotainment system with a touchscreen. The sportier-looking S JCW Inspired variant packs in air ducts in the front apron, 18-inch alloy wheels (non-JCW variants get 17-inchers), a rear spoiler and other additional equipment such as a rear view camera, a sporty steering wheel, a Harman Kardon system, a head-up display, wireless charging and stainless steel pedal covers.
The new Countryman holds potential to interest more buyers due to its SUV body style, which is a huge draw for Indian buyers. But will it be the most popular Mini, like the earlier model? Let us know what interests you most about the vehicle in the comments section below.