MINI Unveils Next-Gen Countryman with Style
MINI has introduced its new models, showcasing the performance of gasoline engines in the MINI Countryman, available in both the C and more powerful S variants. Additionally, there's a diesel option. The MINI Countryman C combines spaciousness, driving comfort, and an efficient 3-cylinder gasoline engine, making it an entry-level model that blends MINI's signature agility and driving pleasure with generous standard features, according to Stefanie Wurst, head of the MINI brand.
The entry-level model boasts 125 kW/170 hp, accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in just 8.3 seconds and reaching a top speed of 212 km/h. With 280 Nm of torque and TwinPower Turbo technology, it offers the power and spontaneity for typical MINI driving enjoyment. Furthermore, it incorporates mild hybrid technology to recover braking energy and provide 14 kW of electric drive power during accelerations, reducing fuel consumption and emissions (combined fuel consumption: 6.5 - 6.1 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 146 - 138 g/km, per WLTP).
In terms of design, the new MINI Countryman is 13 centimetres longer and eight centimetres taller than its predecessor. The redesigned octagonal front grille, sleek body contours, and LED lights give it a distinctive look. Piano Black roof rails are now standard, enhancing its versatility. With 202 mm ground clearance and a dynamic chassis, it offers safety and comfort on uneven roads. Wheels range from 17 to 21 inches.
Inside, the spacious cabin accommodates up to five adults. The panoramic glass roof adds brightness, while sports seats provide extra space in the shoulder and elbow area. The rear seats are individually adjustable, and the back seat can be moved to create more legroom or cargo space. Folding down the rear seat backrest in a 40:20:40 ratio allows flexible trunk volume adjustment (450 to 1460 litres).
The centrepiece of the minimalist interior is a 240 mm round OLED display, offering intuitive operation of infotainment and assistance systems through touch or voice commands. MINI Experience Modes customise the cockpit's appearance with visual design, ambient lighting, and sound. Driving functions are controlled via the characteristic MINI toggle bar.
For the first time, Driving Assistant Plus enables partially automated Level 2 driving on motorway-like routes, allowing the driver to briefly remove their hands from the steering wheel at speeds up to 60 km/h while closely monitoring traffic.
The new MINI Family product structure offers customisation with Essential, Classic, Favoured, and JCW trim variants, including different paint colours, roof colours, and interior finishes. The C-pillar element design varies with the selected trim. The Favoured trim, with its contrasting roof and Silver front grille frame, adds style to the Smokey Green body colour. 20-inch Windmill Spoke 2-tone design rims complement the MINI Countryman C's confident appearance.
A two-tone colour gradient in the interior decorates the textile surfaces, made from recycled polyester, from the dashboard to the door panels, for a comfortable atmosphere. Additionally, the Favoured trim includes perforated Vescin sports seats available in three colours with traditional accent stitching.
With these new models, MINI continues to evolve, combining its signature agility and driving pleasure with modern technology and design, making the MINI Countryman an exciting choice for MINI enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
Also worth a look: the MINI X1 and the MINI Cooper S.
FAQ
Q: What does the new MINI Countryman cost in South Africa?
The new MINI Countryman C starts from around R680,000 in South Africa, while the more powerful S variant will likely kick off from about R750,000, though official local pricing hasn't been confirmed yet.
Q: Is the MINI Countryman worth buying over other compact SUVs?
The Countryman offers genuine MINI character with proper SUV practicality, making it worth considering if you want something different from the usual BMW X1 or Audi Q3 crowd, plus you get 450 to 1460 litres of boot space.
Q: How fuel efficient is the new MINI Countryman?
The Countryman C delivers between 6.1 to 6.5 litres per 100km thanks to its mild hybrid system, which is pretty decent for a compact SUV that still packs 125kW of punch.
Q: What are the key differences between the MINI Countryman C and S models?
The Countryman C is the entry-level model with 125kW and serves up solid performance, while the S variant cranks up the power significantly for those who want more grunt from their crossover.
Q: How much bigger is the new MINI Countryman compared to the old one?
The new Countryman has grown considerably, stretching 13 centimetres longer and standing eight centimetres taller than its predecessor, giving you much more space inside without losing that MINI vibe.
Should You Buy It?
The new MINI Countryman is a solid yes if you're after a premium compact SUV that doesn't blend into the parking lot at Sandton City. At an expected R680,000 for the C model, it's positioned right between the entry-level Germans and offers genuinely quirky style with proper practicality. The 125kW output gives you enough punch for highway overtaking, the 450-litre boot swallows your weekend braai supplies, and that 202mm ground clearance means you won't scrape on our questionable road surfaces. Sure, it's pricier than a Hyundai Creta, but you're paying for that distinctive MINI character, solid build quality, and the kind of interior tech that makes your mates jealous. The best quirky compact SUV under R700,000 in SA is definitely this new Countryman C.
