With just days before its official unveil, the new MINI F60 Countryman continues its testing trials in Europe. This time, a partially covered MINI SUV was spotted in Munich. The BMW UKL architecture serves as the technical basis for the new MINI Countryman. After the small core models – the hatch, five-door, convertible and the compact class offshoot Clubman – the entire range of MINI models would be converted to the front-wheel drive platform.
The F60 MINI Countryman uses the slightly larger architecture, internally named UKL2, which is also suitable for the integration of a four-wheel drive. With the help of a Haldex clutch, the power can be routed to the rear wheels delivering additional traction.
The transversely mounted engines are from the new family of BMW engines with the three-cylinder variants – B37 and B38, and the four-cylinder B47 and B48. Also, the British marque has decided on a plug-in hybrid MINI Countryman E, which will complement the program only a few months after the launch.
Inside, the new 2017 MINI Countryman is not only more spacious, but the materials will meet higher demands and underline the premium status of the Englishman.
Design wise, the Countryman follows the lines and guidelines of the first generation MINI SUV, so expect the same soft rounded SUV with a low center of gravity, and plenty of space for four passengers. The iconic MINI design elements will continue to be present on the crossover, including the round headlights and trapezoid-shaped grille.
[Photos: Rudi for BimmerToday]
