MINI India has announced the launch of new Cooper D countryman in the country, priced at Rs. 36.50 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi). First launched in India at 2012 Delhi auto expo, the mini-series serves in a niche segment with no major competitors present in the country. In the last year or so, Mini has updated almost its entire range of cars in India in a last year or so staring the 3 and 5-door versions in November last year followed by Cooper S in March 2015.
The new model will now be brought via CBU (completely built unit) route as the company recently stopped the assembly of countryman in India due to its predecessor average performance. The facelift model sports a host of cosmetic changes inside and out to lure the premium car buyers and it continues to be available with a diesel engine.
For 2015 model, the countryman gets some aesthetic changes while maintaining the iconic styling of the mini cars to add a fresh appeal like a new dual slat front hexagonal grille, revised curvy bonnet, bigger Xenon headlamps with LED DRLs and integrated turn indicators, silver highlights on front skid plate and round shape LED fog lamps.
Other changes include a 17 inch alloy wheels, increased ground clearance, short overhangs, short antenna, muscular tailgate with bold countryman badge at rear, twin exhaust pipes and vertical LED tail lights to appeal a broader spectrum of buyers.
The updated mini country is available in 11 colors including nine metallic and two non metallic colors. The nine metallic color shades are Midnight grey, Starlight blue, brilliant copper, blazing red, royal grey, crystal silver, cosmic blue, jungle green and absolute black while the two non-metallic ones include light coffee and light white.
Step inside the new countryman to get mesmerize with company’s familiar cabin which now boasts some new equipments and revised design. The driver seating position has been raised for good outer view with height adjustability function while the centrally located circular dial has been tweaked with more chrome. In addition, you also get a 6.5 inch infotainment system accompanied by radio MINI boost CD with 10 speakers 640 watt Hi-Fi Harmon Kardon audio system however it is available only as optional equipment.
MINI Cooper counterman is being offered with range of new interior colors and upholstery options along with auto air cons, panoramic sunroof and 40:20:40 spilt mode for rear seat.
Under the heart of new countryman is a same 2.0L four cylinder turbocharged diesel engine developing a maximum output of 112bhp and 270Nm of torque between 1500-2750rpm, coupled to a 6-speed steptronic automatic transmission. The engine thrusts the hatch to reach to 100km mark from standstill in just 11.3 seconds with a top speed of 185km/hr.
Safety features are also in abundance in new countryman with six airbags, run-flat tyres, dynamic stability control (DSC), rear parking distance control, dynamic traction control, ABS, brake assist and 3-point seat belts.
Mini Cooper D countryman will be exclusively sold via company’s four dealerships in the country- Bird automotive (Delhi), KUN exclusive (Hyderabad), Infinity cars (Mumbai), Navnit motors (Bangalore),
During the launch, Mr. Philipp von Sahr, President, BMW Group India said, “MINI is a style icon for trend-setters and has established itself as a unique brand, associated with tradition and irresistible charm. The new MINI Countryman has pursued its path to success both on and off road. Selective design modifications for the exterior and interior along with innovative equipment features contribute to the more mature charisma and increased appeal of the new MINI Countryman. It is a perfect amalgamation of character, space and the ‘go-kart’ responsiveness.”
MINI has also updated the prices for the entire MINI range which includes Mini 3-door, 5 door and MINI convertible.
New ex-showroom Delhi prices of MINI range are as follows:-
MINI Cooper D 3-door– Rs. 28, 50,000
MINI Cooper D 5-door- Rs. 31, 90,000
MINI Cooper S 3-door– Rs. 31, 50,000
MINI Cooper Convertible– Rs. 33, 90,000
MINI Cooper D countryman- Rs. 36, 50,000
