The Countryman is the biggest model in Mini’s lineup and now it’s getting a new engine to match its extra girth.
Mini is introducing the John Cooper Works Countryman with a newly developed 211-horsepower version of the turbocharged 1.6-liter four cylinder Mini engine. The JCW Countryman will come standard with Mini’s ALL4 all-wheel-drive system, making it the first JCW Mini to put its power down through all four wheels.
The other big news with the JCW Countryman introduction is the first John Cooper Works model in Mini’s lineup with an automatic transmission. Previous JCW models in Mini’s lineup have only been available with six-speed manual transmissions.
Mini expects the JCW Countryman to accelerate to 0-62 mph (0-100 km) in 7.1 seconds.
While the JCW Countryman’s new engine is only rated at 3 more horsepower than the other JCW engines in Mini’s lineup, the real story is the increased torque. The Countryman’s engine produces 207 pound-feet of torque, 15 more than in other Minis. And an overboost feature allows the engine to produce up to 221 pound-feet for brief periods.
To improve the handling, the JCW Countryman is lowered 10 mm and stiffer springs and dampers are fitted.
The AWD system normally sends all engine power to the front wheels, but can send as much as 50 percent to the rears if conditions warrant it.
An aerodynamics kit is standard. Seven exterior colors are available and, of course, JCW’s signature Red Chilli is available as a contrasting color.
The JCW Countryman will go on sale in the fall as a 2013 model.
