Mini Countryman Preview

Mini Countryman is the fourth variant of the Mini family. The MINI Countryman crossover aims to bridge the gap between classic MINI concept and a contemporary SUV. The MINI Countryman will be available with three petrol and two diesel engines at launch.With the addition of the MINI Countryman as the fourth variant in its model family, MINI is taking the inimitable MINI feeling into a new dimension. The MINI Countryman crossover bridges the gap between the classic MINI concept and a contemporary Sports Activity Vehicle. Its broader range of abilities in both urban use and beyond paves the way for larger and evolving target groups with a greater need for space and flexibility to experience the driving fun that comes with a MINI. The brand’s first model to feature four doors and a wide-opening tailgate, the Countryman offers more space – which can be used in a wide variety of ways – to go with its raised seating position and optimised ride comfort. Plus, the “go-kart” feeling for which MINI is a byword has been preserved and takes on a new dimension with the optional MINI ALL4 all-wheel-drive system. The MINI Countryman expresses the defining virtues of the brand in terms of design, premium quality, handling, efficiency and the scope for customisation – and does so in an absorbingly individual way.

The MINI John Cooper Works World Championship 50

The limited edition MINI John Cooper Work World Championship 50 has been unveiled at this year's MINI United 2009 to celebrate 50 years that have passed since the car's rally victories in Monte Carlo. The company says the MINI Cooper JCW World Championship 50 is the best model to ever wear the Cooper name.The MINI John Cooper Work World Championship 50 comes in a Connaught Green paintjob and is powered by the 1.6-litre, 211 hp turbocharged John Cooper Works-tuned engine.The MINI John Cooper Work World Championship 50 features 17” CHALLENGE cross-spoke alloy wheels, Xenon headlights, various carbon fiber elements and a leather interior.Munich . Both were revolutionary and triumphant: in the summer of 1959 Alec Issigonis presented his concept for a small car which, with its transverse-mounted front four-cylinder engine and space for four occupants plus luggage, was to become a byword for economy of space and driving fun. That same year, sports car constructor John Cooper won his first Formula One World Championship title with Jack Brabham at the wheel. 50 years on, the MINI John Cooper Works World Championship 50 evokes both the start of the triumphal path of the classic Mini as well as victory in the F1 Drivers' and Constructors' Championship for John Cooper's racing team. This MINI special edition was inspired by John Cooper's son, Mike. His signature appears on the facia and on one of the bonnet stripes. It will have a limited production run of 250 units and was unveiled to the public at the 2009 MINI United Festival in Silverstone. The car is based on the MINI John Cooper Works and driven by a 155 kW/211 hp four-cylinder engine with Twin-Scroll turbocharger and petrol direct injection. The production version of the MINI John Cooper Works World Championship 50 features numerous exterior and interior details reflecting the racing pedigree of the brand.