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Mini has gone maxi with its latest model unveiled today at the Geneva Motor Show - the Mini Countryman. The first ever production Mini to pack four-wheel drive, the Mini Countryman takes the brand's line-up to four distinct models, alongside the hatchback, Cabriolet and Clubman.
Five engines will be offered from other models in the Mini range - including three petrols and five diesels - although the four-wheel drive system will only be available in the turbocharged Cooper S and diesel Cooper D models from launch.
Mini recognises the Countryman will mostly be driven around town, so the ALL4 four-wheel drive system sends power to the front wheels only, unless extra traction is needed.
It's longer, wider and taller than any other Mini, and offers the most luggage space. And it's the first Mini to have four, wide-opening doors.
Unusually, Mini will offer the Countryman in four or five seat configurations at no additional cost to the buyer.
It's business as usual inside, with the familiar centrally-mounted speedo, steering column-mounted rev counter and funky vents and switchgear, but there's more feeling of space than any Mini before.
It's easy to identify the Countryman as a Mini, but it doesn't look as elegant as other models in the range. It's prettiest viewed from the rear three-quarters, and the one-piece tailgate shows how the Mini Clubman's tailgate should have been.
The Mini Countryman goes on sale in September, with prices ranging from £16,000 to £20,800.
