Buyer’s Guide: 2011 Mini Countryman

NEW FOR 2011:

– All-new model

For 2011, the Mini Countryman is an all-new model. It is the first Mini with four doors and with available all-wheel drive.

The Countryman is available as the Cooper, with 1.6-litre engine, and as the Cooper S, with turbocharged 1.6-litre engine. Both use a six-speed manual transmission or optional six-speed automatic. The Cooper S can be optioned with a permanent all-wheel drive system, called ALL4. It uses an electro-hydraulic differential that varies torque from front to rear. Under normal driving conditions, up to 50 per cent of the engine’s power goes to the rear wheels, with up to 100 per cent to the rear under extreme conditions when necessary.

Features on the Cooper include 17-inch alloy wheels, air conditioning, roof rails, power mirrors, chrome door handles, “leatherette” upholstery, manual seat adjustment, folding rear seat, single exhaust tip, tilt and telescopic multi-function steering wheel, cruise control, auto up/down windows, luggage compartment light, keyless entry with pushbutton start, rear wiper, vanity mirrors, interior centre aluminum storage rail, CD/MP3 stereo with auxiliary input, and satellite radio pre-wiring.

The Cooper S models add rear spoiler, lower front air scoop, dark anthracite interior surfaces, double exhaust tips, sport seats, and stainless steel pedals.