Auto Expo 2018: BMW’s MINI India unveils second generation model of Countryman

The Countryman, a five-seater on-roader and powered by a 1.5-litre diesel engine, will be commercially available later in the year.

AutoExpo2018 Updated: Feb 08, 2018 13:04 IST

BMW has launched two petrol variants — Mini Countryman Cooper S and Mini Countryman Cooper S JCW besides one diesel trim Mini Countryman Cooper SD.(Ramesh Pathania/Mint)

BMW Group India owned MINI India on Wednesday unveiled the second generation model of its subcompact SUV Countryman.

The model has been entirely manufactured at BMW’s Chennai plant, according to Vikram Pawah, president, BMW Group India.

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Considering the cost benefits, the luxury car manufacturer is “evaluating all options for the long-term”, he added.

The Countryman, described by Pawah as “combining form with functionality”, is a five-seater on-roader with a “distinct urban character”. Powered by a 1.5-litre diesel engine, the model will be commercially available later in the year.

The Mini brand sold 421 units in 2017, a growth of 17%, Pawah said. “Our goal is to grow the luxury vehicle segment in India and the Mini Countryman will aid us in that direction”, he added.

The BMW Group sold close to 9,800 cars during the year while market leader Mercedes-Benz India Pvt. Ltd sold over 15,000 vehicles in comparison.