The 2018 MINI Countryman Cooper is now powered by a 134-horsepower, 1.5L 3-cylinder engine. Transmissions remain a choice between a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic. Standard equipment includes such technology as rain-sensing wipers, panoramic sunroof, keyless entry, a rearview camera, dual-zone climate control
The upgraded Countryman is the 'S' model. Starting at just under $30,000. The engine offered is a turbocharged 2.0L 4-cylinder engine making 189 horsepower and paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Upgraded equipment on the S includes 18-inch wheels, LED headlights and fog lights and adaptive suspension dampers. The S is also available with MINI's ALL4 all-wheel drive.
The new-for-2018 Countryman S E plug-in hybrid combines the 1.5L 3-cylinder engine at the front and an 87-horsepower electric motor at the rear wheels. This combination is good for 221 horsepower. The Countryman S E can go for 12 miles on electric power and afterwards is good for 27 mpg.
MINI offers an array of equipment packages are available to personalize the Countryman. The Convenience Package includes a rear armrest, vehicle alarm, cargo divider and cargo area flip-out seating cushion. The Premium Package offers power-adjustable front seats, a 12-speaker Harman/Kardon audio system and hands-free power liftgate. The Technology package delivers a touchscreen-based navigation system, heads-up display, wireless phone charging and an automated parallel parking system. Dynamic suspension dampers are available as well, a feature usually found on higher-end BMW models.
Within MINI culture, the name 'John Cooper' is synonymous with performance driving. MINI offers appearance and packages for both the interior and exterior of the Countryman. They include JCW-branded steering wheel, sport seats, special 18-inch wheels, a rear spoiler, additional stability control choices and aerodynamic upgrades. A dedicated John Cooper Works trim offers legitimate performance upgrades in the form of an enhanced version of the turbo 2.0L engine, tuned to make 228 horsepower, with upgraded exhaust, Brembo brakes, sport-tuned suspension and launch control.
Other available customization options allow the driver to pick from an almost dizzying array of 19-inch wheels, bonnet stripes, roof and mirror caps and a range of interior accent trims.
Small SUV Practicality With Fun MINI Styling
Playful Driving Dynamics
Strong Luxury-level Feature Set
Extensive Customization Options
Plug-in Hybrid Powertrain Available
The MINI Countryman gets several notable updates for 2018. The biggest news is that a backup camera and rear park distance control now come standard across the entire mini lineup. Apple CarPlay has also been added as part of the technology package for the Countryman while a new and more legible fuel gage has been added to all models.
MINI has added a plug-in hybrid option for 2018. It comprises the 1.5L 3-cylinder engine combined with an electric motor at the rear wheels.
The redesigned Countryman is more refined than ever. Base prices start at around $27,000, similar to an entry-level Ford Mustang or Subaru WRX. MINI, like its BMW siblings, knows how to blend luxury appointments with performance attitude to make a well-rounded driving experience. Much like its smaller sibling, the MINI Cooper, the Countryman is built more like a tiny SUV with a slightly lifted suspension and greater cargo space. The same array of powerful but efficient engines from the Cooper are present in the Countryman, as is a similarly satisfying level of standard equipment. The Countryman brings a perfect blend of practicality and European styling to the MINI lineup.
