Tuesday, December 7, 2010

LIFESTYLE: Mini Countryman heads to SA shores

The much anticipated Mini Copper Countryman is finally heading down to SA shores in 2011. This beauty is the first 4-door Mini Cooper out of the full range since the car came gained momentum and popularity locally and internationally.


The Countryman is the first Mini to come with four doors and a large tailgate, as well as an interior offering space for up to five people. The new Countryman is also the first member of the Mini family with a body measuring more than four metres in length and which can be ordered as an option with all-wheel drive.



With these features, in addition to the Countryman’s raised seating position, the new car intends to take the Mini brand into new dimensions and win over additional target groups.



Two petrol-powered models will available when the car goes on sale later this year. Both the Mini Cooper Countryman and the Mini Cooper S Countryman, are powered by the brand’s proven 1,6-litre engine, producing 90 kW and 135 kW respectively.



The optional Mini All4 all-wheel drive allows the driving fun to continue off the beaten track as well. The permanent all-wheel-drive system’s quick response to changing conditions promises to deliver new handling talents for which MINI is famed. An electromagnetic centre differential positioned directly on the final drive varies the distribution of power seamlessly between the front and rear axles. The All4 system is available for the Cooper S Countryman only.