All new MINI Countryman arrives in the Middle East

The MINI Countryman has made its Middle Eastern debut during a two day action packed adventure which included a variety of interesting drive terrains to test the all-wheel capabilities of car. The fourth model to join the MINI portfolio, the new MINI Countryman is the first ever MINI model with four doors, four individual seats, an all-wheel drive option measuring four metres in length. While still retaining the unique spirit of what a MINI is renowned for, this new addition to the MINI family bridges the gap between the classic MINI and a modern Sports Activity Vehicle.

As a brand that knows no boundaries, MINI also unveiled 'MINI Connected,' a new connectivity feature that further enhances the driving experience by keeping the driver connected with the outside world through a USB interface. This technology includes web radio, a world first for any vehicle which allows radio programmes from across the world to be played in the vehicle. Available as an option, MINI Connected also allows for a high level of integration with smartphones enabling social media platforms such as Facebook be controlled in the on board display system.

Providing even greater freedom and space, the new MINI Countryman offers a versatile and comfortable ride every time.  Its increased length and the option of all-wheel drive offers the perfect solution for getting around town during the week as well as providing enough room for weekend getaway trips. In fact, the MINI Countryman has claimed the top 5-star score in the latest Euro NCAP crash test results, making it one of the safest cars on the road. The car has been designed to ensure highly effective occupant protection for both adults and children in various types of collision.

The MINI Countryman will also spearhead MINI’s return to the World Rally Championship in 2011, demonstrating just how verstile and energetic this trendsetter is.

Commenting on its Middle East arrival held at an event in Dubai at the Mina Seyahi Hall, Sarah Klippert, MINI Manager at BMW Group Middle East said: “The MINI Countryman is an exciting addition which takes the MINI brand to the next phase in its illustrious 52 year history. We expect that the new Countryman will appeal to a whole new audience who appreciate MINI but require more space in a vehicle.”

As the fourth model within the range and the first premium car of its kind, the MINI Countryman is a pioneer in many respects. Its opens up that characteristic MINI feeling for new target groups and at the same time transfers individual design and the unique fun of motoring into a segment with greater demands in terms of available space, diversity and motoring comfort.

“This vehicle has already sold out in Europe and we expect the MINI Countryman to be just as popular in the Middle East. The vehicle will be available, like all MINI models, with a wide range of exterior and interior customization options available for owners to give their car a pesonalised and different look,” added Klippert.

Inside the MINI, it’s all about comfort and practicality matched with an innovative style. Combinations in the Countryman’s range also include a host of new interior colours, such as trim strips and upholstery which enables the customer to create a MINI with a truly unique character. The list of standard features are endless and includes a MINI Centre Rail, running from the dashboard through to the rear seats, where everything from cup holders, sunglasses cases and armrests can be attached to the bar and slid back and forth.

With the perfect amount of space for weekend getaways, the vehicle offers 190 litres more luggage capacity than the original at a total of 350 litres.  It's the first MINI model to measure four metres in length, clearly standing out from all other MINI models.

In addition to the endless interior trim options available, the MINI Countryman includes a high-end audio and navigation systems, an extra-large Panorama roof, Adaptive Headlights in combination with Xenon headlight units, a towbar, light-alloy wheels ranging in size from 16 to 19 inches, as well as the wide range of John Cooper Works performance components.

To see the new MINI Countryman in all its glory, visit the MINI channel on YouTube:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pv_T9Q5FVIw or www.press.bmwgroup.com.