In the Philippines, crossovers have become a very popular choice for many. This is common to family-oriented buyers who want a compact vehicle that could face any terrain, be it on or off-road. However, things started to level up when MINI Philippines brought their MINI Countryman to the market. Bearing an SUV-inspired version of its distinctively MINI compact design, thus possessing the largest body among its mates, the Countryman is still smaller than most crossovers we know. It seats up to 5 passengers, with ample comfort and room for extra luggage needed for a great getaway. Unique is its Center Rail storage, which allows the front and back passengers to have easy access to tumblers and cellphones just by moving the rail back and forth.
Platform, Chassis and Powertrain
Based on the BMW UKL1 platform, the MINI Countryman is a 5-door crossover. BMW's UKL platform is utilized by entry-level models in the German manufacturer's portfolio. The modular architecture lends itself well to many cars in the automaker's lineup, being able to feature front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drivetrains. The engine layout of this particular platform is transverse, which means that it has a front-wheel bias. This allows for more space in the cabin while retaining compact dimensions.
Damping duties are taken care of by a pair of MacPherson struts in the front, and a multilink system in the rear. The wheels come in at 18-inches for all models, including the Countryman S.
Customers have a range of engines to choose from in the Cooper lineup. MINI supplies a 2.0-liter Twin-Power Turbo motor which makes 192 hp and 280 Nm of torque. The engine is paired with an 8-speed Steptronic transmission (DCT). The models have a top speed of 224 km/h.
Chassis
Class
Subcompact crossover SUV
Body Style
5-door SUV
Platform
Layout
Front-engine, front-wheel-drive
Platform
BMW UKL2
Powertrain
Engine
2.0-liter four cylinders gasoline engine
Power Output
302 HP 450 NM (John Cooper Works)
189 HP 280 NM (Cooper S)
Transmission
8-Speed Sports Steptronic (John Cooper Works)
8-Speed Steptronic (Cooper S)
Technology Features
MINI's premium crossover, the Countryman gets a host of tech features. The Countryman is equipped with a Comfort Access System, heated windscreen washer jets, heated exterior mirrors, Park Distance Control (PDC) for the rear, automatic climate control, and cruise control with braking function. On top of that, the Countryman gets a multifunction steering wheel, MINI's comfort access system, a rearview camera, multiple driving modes, and even a Park Assistant.
Meanwhile, the infotainment features the MINI Connected system, which has a screen size that goes from 6.5-inches to 8.8-inches depending on the variant or trim level. As for smartphone connectivity, the system features Apple CarPlay to connect to iOS devices. MINI also have their own app, called the 'MINI App', which allows you to track your vehicle's status and plan your journeys.
Higher trims get to enjoy a heads-up display, which complements the other interior features like the sport seats.
Exterior
While MINI is known for its hatchbacks, the brand takes it a step further by implementing more rugged styling to the crossover. The Countryman is taller and wider than the standard Cooper models. It's also longer has better ground clearance to clear potholes or humps with ease. Meant for stints out the of the city, the countryman features capable headlights that are LED and rears that are of the same type. The car also comes equipped with LED DRLs for daytime safety, and the Sport variant gets a more aggressive, yet still quite quirky, front bumper.
Interior
MINI's modern interior design language features rounded edges and a look that thinks outside of the box. The quirky interior is adorned with character and uniqueness. Toggles are used instead of the standard array of buttons, which will keep your eyes and hands looking and touching when you're standing still. Electronic seats are available, as well as leather upholstery. Rear cargo space in the Countryman is rated at 450 liters, with a power tailgate and a kick-to-open feature for when your hands are tied.
Safety
The Countryman gets a total of 6 airbags, ABS with EBD, parking sensors, stability control, traction control, a reverse camera, tire pressure monitoring system, a heads up display, and ISOFIX tethers.
Considered as a bigger brother to its hatchback siblings, the MINI Cooper S Countryman has a lot to offer and can go toe to toe with them in terms of its fun factor.
Facelifted for 2022, the MINI Cooper S Countryman's all-new and ready for any adventure in or out of the city. Get to know more about it apart from its spritely 2.0-liter turbo motor on this episode of Behind a Wheel with Caco. Does this reskinned BMW still have its British sensibility? Or is it all the better for it? Find out if its P3,750,000 price tag is worth it!
