Mini has previewed a new off-road-inspired version of the Countryman, which is set to make its full debut in October. Revealed as a prototype, the new derivative gets suspension and styling changes aimed at improving its ability away from paved roads, and forms part of the brand's strategy to broaden its range with more lifestyle-focused special editions.
- Production version to be unveiled in October
- Part of Mini's strategy to expand its range of special editions
Prototype hints at off-road-focused updates
The prototype features a raised suspension, chunky off-road tyres and a roof-mounted tent, underlining its outdoor-focused positioning. Mini has released images of the vehicle testing in Colorado's Rocky Mountain National Park, where rugged versions of family SUVs have become increasingly popular.
Mini boss Jean-Philippe Parain said the company is "just one step away" from unveiling the production version, which is scheduled to debut in October.
Inspired by outdoor lifestyle trend
According to Mini design chief Holger Hampf, the new Countryman derivative reflects growing demand for vehicles suited to outdoor activities and weekend adventures. He also indicated that the production model will draw inspiration from the Vagabund concepts revealed earlier this year, which reimagined the Countryman with an off-road theme.
The new derivative is also part of Mini's broader plan to introduce more special editions and offer greater scope for customisation through collaborations and lifestyle-focused variants.
The current Mini Countryman is offered with two petrol engine options in India. The Countryman C is powered by a 1.5-litre, three-cylinder turbo-petrol engine producing 156hp and 240Nm, paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox driving the front wheels. Above it sits the Countryman JCW All4, which gets a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine developing 300hp and 400Nm, mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and an all-wheel-drive system. The JCW is capable of sprinting from 0-100kph in a claimed 5.4 seconds.