Mini gets off-road-ready Countryman into shape through Rocky Mountains
Prototype Countryman gets a range of off-road-focused upgrades.
Mini looks set to introduce a more off-road-focused version of its Countryman SUV.
Referred to only as ‘a new Countryman edition’, a prototype model has been showcased being put to the test through the Rocky Mountains in Colorado, USA.
While full details are being kept under wraps for now, the prototype appears to be wearing lifted suspension, chunkier tyres and an adventure-ready roof tent. It appears to feature a slightly extended roof spoiler at the rear, too.
Jean-Philippe Parain, head of Mini, said: “Mini has always been about turning every journey into an adventure. That spirit guided this project from the very beginning. We are incredibly
excited to be just one step away from introducing this new, rugged addition to the Mini Countryman family.
“True to the Mini spirit, it combines capability with character and will open up even more
opportunities for unforgettable adventures.”
The current Countryman is available in a variety of engine setups, including both electric and petrol. A range-topping Countryman John Cooper Works utilises a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine with close to 300bhp and a 0-60mph time of 5.1 seconds, which would make it a good fit for a high-performance off-road SUV.
Mini says that the new car is currently being ‘subjected to challenge its capabilities in demanding real-world conditions.’ The brand also says that a production-ready version of the car should be unveiled in October this year.