The MINI brand has added to its model line-up for summer 2017 with new models, and a range of new design, functionality and infotainment improvements. As of June 2017, Irish customers will see the first MINI plug-in hybrid model when the MINI Cooper S E Countryman ALL4 makes its debut. At the same time, the new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman is the ultimate partner for all those who wish to combine a desire for adventure, versatility and off-road capabilities with hallmark MINI go-kart feeling. With an output of 231 hp working with MINI’s ALL4 all-wheel drive system, the new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman sprints from 0-100km/h in 6.5 seconds and is available to order on the road price at €50,440 (OTR). Meanwhile the MINI Cooper S E Countryman ALL4 comes with a combined power with efficiency consumption levels 2.3 – 2.1 l/100km and combined CO2 emissions from 52 – 49 g/km.
From July 2017, all new MINI models will feature an enhanced cockpit instrument with a new night design and a fuel level display that offers greater precision. Operation of MINI Driving Modes and MINI Head-Up Display will also be revised. In a brand first, MINI Clubman and MINI Countryman will offer Apple CarPlay and an alertness assistant will be introduced on MINI 3-door Hatch, MINI 5-door Hatch and MINI Convertible models. MINI have also introduced an accessory to make adventures a real possibility with Italian brand AUTOHOME. These specially designed two-man roof tents are mounted onto the roof of a MINI. The roof tent comes available in black or white, in keeping with the contrasting roof and mirror caps of the new MINI Countryman.
MINI Countryman and MINI Clubman customers who choose Media Pack XL or MINI Tech Pack will now benefit from Apple CarPlay preparation included. This new functionality allows MINI customers a range of new intelligent connectivity and infotainment options. Apple Carplay integration offers customers a convenient, wireless connection to compatible Apple iPhone apps, including iMessage, Phone, Apple Music, Apple Maps and selected third party apps. Apps are displayed and operated on the 8.8” high resolution MINI central display, and controlled using either the MINI Touch Controller or the touchscreen. As of July 2017, the cockpit instrument on the steering column of all current MINI models will offer improved clarity and an enhanced graphics display. At night time, the numbers and letters will appear in white rather than orange in future. This new colour scheme will also apply to the Head-Up Display whilst driving in the dark. Individual height setting for the Head-Up Display will now be stored in the personal profile on the vehicle key, as will the settings for the exterior mirrors and the electrically adjustable seats. The new fuel level display on the right-hand section of the cockpit instrument features an enhanced and more precise display, making it easier to read fuel level details.
Operation of the MINI Driving Modes will be modified in all current MINI models as of July 2017. Changing from the standard setting to SPORT mode or GREEN Mode and will now be facilitated by means of a toggle switch positioned underneath the air conditioning controls. Head-Up Display controllers will be managed from a separate menu item in the MINI operating system from July 2017 onwards. The alertness assistant will be introduced on the MINI 3-door Hatch, MINI 5-door Hatch and MINI Convertible as of July 2017, enhancing safety on lengthier trips. Included with the optional MINI Visual Boost screen, MINI Navigation or MINI Navigation XL, the system continuously analyses how the vehicle is driven. If the distance covered or the driver’s behaviour indicates that the driver may be losing concentration, the system encourages the driver to take a break with a graphic displayed on the central display screen.
