Mini Cooper Countryman 2013-2015 1.6 S

Cooper Countryman 2013-2015 1.6 S Review

Mini Cooper Countryman is one of the symbolic SUV models, which is currently available in four variants. Their Mini Cooper Countryman S is the top end petrol variant. It is equipped with a 1.6-litre mill, which comes with a displacement capacity of 1598cc. This engine that can pump out a maximum power of 184bhp along with a peak torque output of 260Nm. Its external appearance has a blend of classy design with ultra-modern cosmetics. This SUV is not just stylish from outside, but also entrancing from inside, thanks to the extensive use of leather upholstery. The automaker is offering this vehicle with an option to customize the interiors and exteriors with different styling aspects. This enables the buyers to personalize the vehicle as per their choice. Its seats can be personalized with either polar beige or carbon black color scheme, which gives it a plush appeal. On the other hand, its roof and exterior mirror caps can be painted with either black or white color scheme as per choice. Furthermore, it is also available with several attractive accessories as optional, which gives it a unique stance. This package includes a set of lightweight alloy wheels, a set of stylish ORVM caps with elegant color scheme and utility features inside the cabin. One of the most important aspect is its rigid body construction, which provides optimum protection to the occupants in case of any impact. At present, it is being offered with an unmatched two year warranty without limitation on its mileage. In addition to this, it also has 12-year anti-corrosion warranty that covers the vehicle against rusting of its body panels. At the same time, it is also available with a 3-year warranty period for its paintwork.

Exteriors:

This vehicle has an astoundingly attractive external appearance that can certainly grab the attention of car enthusiasts. The company has designed it with a radiant headlight cluster that has a thick chrome surround and is equipped with powerful projector headlamps and round shaped turn indicators. The precisely designed bonnet has a pair of expressive lines along with the iconic company's insignia. The front windscreen is quite large and has a black surround. It is accompanied by a pair of intermittent wipers. The radiator grille in the center has a hexagonal design featuring horizontally positioned slats. The dual tone bumper is fitted with a black colored under body cladding for preventing it from minor damages. It houses a large air dam along with a pair of round shaped fog lamps. The side profile looks quite decent thanks to its trendy cosmetics like chrome door handles and high gloss black B and C pillars. It also has styling aspects like aluminum ski racks, which gives it a sporty look. Its wheel arches are molded and fitted with a set of stylishly design lightweight alloy wheels. However, buyers can opt for either 'star' or 'multi-spoke' design alloy wheels to give it a distinct look. There is also a provision to customize its roof and ORVM caps with either a black or white color scheme. The rear profile is as attractive as its front facade thanks to the extensive use of chrome inserts. The tail gate is decorated with chrome plated company's insignia along with 'Countryman' lettering. The windscreen is accompanied by a spoiler along with a third brake light. Furthermore, it is fitted with a chrome plated exhaust pipe that testifies its off-road character.  

Interiors:

The exquisitely designed internal cabin is done up with a black color scheme. The seats are ergonomically designed featuring side bolsters and adjustable head restraints. The front seats are electrically adjustable wherein the driver's seat also has memory function. Both the front and rear seats are covered with premium leather upholstery. There are a lot of chrome inserts given inside the cabin, especially on door panels, steering wheel, dashboard and on AC vent surround. Its three spoke steering wheel is wrapped with leather upholstery and is mounted with multifunctional switches. There are several utility features given inside like dual front sun visors, inside rear view mirror, storage box, drink holders and front center armrest. The instrument cluster is in a round shape and is positioned right on top of the center fascia. It has white background and trendy dials, which gives it a compelling look.    

Engine and Performance:

This variant is fitted with a four cylinder based 1.6-litre petrol engine, which has the ability to displace 1598cc. The maximum power produced by this motor is 184bhp at 5500rpm, while yielding a peak torque of 260Nm in the range of 1600 to 5000rpm. This power plant is paired with a six speed automatic transmission gear box that enables easy shifting of gears and helps in attaining a top speed of 168 Kmph approximately. It can take about 13.9 seconds for crossing the speed barrier of 100 Kmph from a standstill.

Braking and Handling:

All wheels are fitted with robust disc brakes, which helps in efficient braking. It is further assisted by anti-lock braking system along with electronic brake force distribution and brake assist. The internal cabin is incorporated with a rack and pinion based electric power assisted steering system that offers outstanding response. This can be adjusted according to its speed for easy maneuverability at low speeds. The front axle is assembled with a single joint spring strut, while the rear one is affixed with a multiple control arm.  

Comfort Features:

The cabin is blessed with a proficient air conditioning system along with rear air vents. It helps in regulating the cabin temperature and create pleasant ambiance. There is an advanced audio unit available, which adds to the entertainment quotient. The reverse parking sensors makes it quite easy for the driver to park the vehicle. Besides these, the cabin is also incorporated with sun visors with vanity mirror, rear reading lamp, a digital clock, remote fuel lid and trunk opener, cruise control function, rear seat center armrest and so on. All these features put together makes it one of the safest vehicles in its class.

Safety and Security:

The manufacturer has loaded it with crucial security features to keep this vehicle and its passengers safe while traveling. It is blessed with a robust body structure that is reinforced at strategic points. This will help in minimizing the impact on occupants in case of any collision. The list of crucial aspects includes six airbags, dynamic braking light, cornering brake control, an engine immobilizer is another feature which protects it from theft, a collapsible steering column, engine check warning, central locking system, emergency interior seat back release and anti theft alarm as well as power door locks. It also has hill assist control that avoids it from rolling backwards, while driving off uphill on an inclined surface. It has three point seat belts at front with pretensioners as well as force limiters, which keeps the driver and co-passenger safe in the event of a crash. There is ISOFIX child safety seat mounting system available for up to two child seats that ensure the protection of younger passengers. 

Pros:

1. Availability of many comfort features is a plus point.
2. Powerful engines deliver excellent performance.

Cons:

1. Internal appearance can be further improved.
2. Higher price tag is a disadvantage.