The MINI Countryman is bringing a fresh look to the tradition-steeped British brand with its advancements in space, functionality, and athleticism.

With efficient aerodynamics and the latest version of the ALL4 all-wheel drive system, drivers will experience unmatched agility on both the highways and back-road trails. But MINI isn’t stopping there; the new Countryman is the first model in the MINI lineup to be available as a plug-in hybrid, meaning you can go further while also going green.

The team at 3Birds Template is excited to fill you in on all of the innovations MINI designers have included in the new Countryman, including a redesigned interior and new powertrain options.

Powerful Proportions

The new MINI Countryman is 7.8 inches longer and one inch wider than the previous model, and the wheelbase has been extended by 2.9 inches, resulting in more room for passengers and greater storage space. The luggage compartment volume is 17.6 cu.-ft. and can be extended to 47.6 cu.-ft. for those days when you need to cart groceries or your family’s suitcases. Raised seats provide a better view, and the back row can be rearranged in a 40/20/40 split to accommodate any combination of cargo and passengers.

Seating Space

Speaking of seating, the new Countryman’s rear seats can slide back and forth by up to 5 inches while the rear backrest can be reclined or folded completely flat. Drivers can also opt for Picnic Bench seating, an upholstered and padded cushion that folds out of the luggage compartment to provide seating for two on top of the rear bumper while the vehicle is parked.

Exterior Design Elements

The new Countryman may be larger, but it hasn’t lost any of the design elements that make it a MINI. Drivers can still expect the short overhangs, large wheel arches, and precise body contours that further enhance the vehicle’s athletic and recognizable stance. In addition, the body finishes include two new colors: Island Blue and Chestnut.

Other design features include LED headlamps with peripheral daytime driving lights, arrow-shaped side scuttles, and satin-finished aluminum roof rails.

Refined Interior Styling

Drivers and front-seat passengers benefit from increased head and shoulder space and optional power-adjustable seats that include adjustable lumbar support. Higher seating and narrow body columns give drivers optimum visibility. Three full-sized seats now fill the rear, and the rear doors have been made larger to make entering and exiting the vehicle easier.

The interior has been further optimized for efficiency with high-quality materials and ergonomically designed controls. More storage also comes standard with door pockets in the front and rear that hold one-liter beverage bottles and a center console that boasts an integrated storage compartment and two cup holders in front of the transmission lever.

Let’s Talk Power

Upon market launch, there will be two versions available – the MINI Cooper Countryman and the MINI Cooper S Countryman. The Countryman will come standard with a 3-cylinder engine that’s capable of producing up to 134 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque, while the S Countryman will have a 4-cylinder engine under the hood that races along with 189 horsepower and 207 lb-ft of torque. Both engines will have a standard 6-speed transmission, although other engine options will be available.

When the MINI Cooper S E Countryman ALL4 is released in June, expect to see a 3-cylinder gasoline engine with an output of 134 horsepower and a synchronous electric motor that produces 87 horsepower for a total of 221 horsepower.

Driver Assistance Systems

A standard rearview camera and rear Park Distance Control help you drive confidently. Upgrade to include front parking sensors and the Parking Assistant that includes collision warning with city braking, camera-based adaptive cruise control, pedestrian warning with initial brake function, high beam assistant, and road sign detection.

Other standard equipment includes dual-zone automatic climate control, a panorama glass sunroof, automatic headlights, rain-sensing wipers, and Comfort Access keyless entry. Drivers can also take advantage of MINI Connected, a personal mobility assistant that builds on the familiar in-car infotainment system you already know and love.

Premier Date

The MINI Countryman made its debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show on November 15, and the U.S. market launch will take place in March 2017. Fans of the hybrid model will have to wait until June.

Be the first to learn more about this exciting new MINI model when you contact us today. Of course, we have plenty of fantastic MINI vehicles currently available, so stop by and see the technology and performance already waiting for you on our lot.

3Birds Template: 505 W. Franklin St., Chapel Hill, NC 27516

Image Credit: MINI