ಮಿನಿ ಕೂಪರ್ ಕಾನ್‌ಟ್ರೀಮ್ಯಾನ್‌ 2013-2015 ವನ್

The greatest challenge in this constantly changing scenario is to preserve something. Artists and manufacturers face this challenge particularly in the automobile industry. Some of the initial automobiles created were not just a mode of mobility but were also a medium to express art. The designers went through a thought process in creating vehicles which would not just amaze the people then but would also claim to define the entire market as a whole. Among such creators, very few succeeded in preserving their creations. Very few actually managed to retain the actual vehicle DNA inspite of constant innovation and technological breakthroughs around them. Among those few vehicles, Mini Cooper is one. The car, for decades, ruled the automobile scene and eventually became one of the most stylish car and ultimately earned itself a cult icon status. The legend of Mini was not restricted to a certain demographic and made its way through America, Europe and other major markets over the years. The impressive thing about the vehicle however remains how it makes the best of what it has. No Mini Car comes with a massive horse power like sports vehicles nor does it come with exceptional off road skills. It does what it was made to do, commute in style. It remains to be the epitome of a four wheeler, which is meant to commute the passengers with the best of what it has. Among the best of what it has is the engine. Though the engines fit in the vehicle are usually 1.6-litres, the performance they offer is astounding. The car also manages to turn heads with its limited variants. The manufacturer chose to stick to what they are known for rather than foraying into unknown territories. This luxurious small car is offered in the Mini Cooper Convertible, Mini Cooper Countryman and the Mini Cooper original range. These reflect years of legacy and pioneering technology. Among the range, Mini Cooper Countryman One is the base range vehicle. Though the price of the vehicle is Rs. 23.50 lakhs (ex-showroom), the pleasure and honor of owning an iconic vehicle surpasses it. The vehicle is available on Indian roads and people preferring to take away a part of history with them do consider the Mini Cooper with great delight.

 

Exteriors:

 

The exteriors of the Mini Cooper Countryman One are iconic in the way they reflect the actual Mini brand name. The vehicle has nothing less than the actual model and certainly a thing or two more sophisticated than its ancestors. In fact, the exteriors of the Mini Cooper Countryman One surprisingly feature innovative contemporary design and engineering excellence though they manage to leave the original Mini Cooper DNA untouched. The front fascia of the vehicle houses a well placed front grille that consumes half the visual presence while the big headlamps decorate the front on either sides. The front bonnet of the vehicle comes in the traditional design with a little curve along the front grille. The front fascia also houses fog lamps on the bumper. The vehicle comes in a design which still remains to be authoritative and amiable. With an overall length of 4097mm, the vehicle offers decent spacing in the interiors too. The overall width of the vehicle is 1789mm while the height extends to 1561mm. The wheelbase of the Mini Cooper Countryman One is decently designed at 2595mm so the turnings can be handled swiftly and smoothly. Though the vehicle seems heavy, it weighs a mere 1340kgs while the overall gross weight is 1735kgs. The exteriors feature adjustable headlights, fog lights in front and rear, power adjustable exterior rear view mirror, electric folding rear view mirror, rain sensing wipers, rear window wiper and washer with a defogger, power antenna, tinted glass, beautiful rear spoiler and sun roof which as a whole manage to make the Mini Cooper Countryman One exceptionally desirable.

 

Interiors:

 

The interiors of the Mini Cooper Countryman One are impressive right from the first look. Be it the futuristic design statement the vehicle makes of the elegance and comfort the vehicle portrays, Mini Cooper Countryman One never ceases to surprise the passengers. The interiors house a well designed dash that has a perfectly rendered structure where the elements are mostly in circles and are positioned with symmetry and synchronization. The front features controls display in a circular module with the vents placed on either sides. The steering wheel also has a no nuisance design with perfect ergonomics. The seats are highly comfortable and being a five seater, it becomes a convenient ride for families. The interiors also feature an air conditioner, heater, adjustable steering column, tachometer, electronic multi trip meter, leather seats , leather steering wheel, glove compartment, digital clock, outside temperature display, cigarette lighter and a digital odometer.

 

Engine and Performance:

 

The Mini Cooper Countryman One features a petrol engine which assures an incredible performance. The 1.6-litre engine manages to churn out a maximum output of 98bhp, while the torque reaches a decent 153Nm at 3000rpm. The mileage offered by the vehicle is 12.3 Kmpl in city and 15.6 Kmpl on highways.

 

Braking and Handling:

 

The variant comes with front disc brakes and rear drum brakes. Features such as Anti lock braking system and brake assist ensure in creating an efficient system with superior handling.

 

Comfort Features:

 

The variant is highly comfortable with power steering, air conditioner with front and rear AC vents, power windows, air quality control, cruise control, parking sensors, cup holders in front and rear, rear seat center arm rest and height adjustable front seat belts.

 

Safety Features:

 

The manufacturer certainly left no stone unturned in creating a safe system with its anti lock braking system, brake assist, central locking system, power door locks and child safety locks , anti theft alarm, driver and passenger airbags, side airbags in front, xenon headlamps, door ajar warning, seatbelt warning, front and side impact beams, traction control, keyless entry, adjustable seats, vehicle stability control system, engine immobilizer, crash sensor and engine check warning. The vehicle also has a decent build quality making it less prone to collision impact damages.

 

Pros: Magnificent exteriors, plush interiors, powerful engine

Cons: Mileage can be better, high cost of ownership