The third-generation Mini Countryman crossover has been spied once again during winter testing in Finland ahead of its expected reveal this year.
As previously reported, the new Countryman will be larger than the current model and be based on the new FAAR platform that also underpins the related BMW X1. It’ll also be built alongside the Bimmer in Leipzig, Germany.
Unlike previously spied Mini Countryman prototypes, this example is covered in a yellow-and-black camouflage like recently-spied Mini Hatch and Aceman prototypes.
Other defining elements of this Countryman prototype are the LED headlights that appear to be production-ready, and at the rear the tail light signature can be distinguished better.
Although our spy photographers didn’t capture any interior images of this particular prototype, a previous prototype had a free-standing digital instrument cluster, head-up display, and an enormous circular touchscreen infotainment system.
The powertrains in the next-generation Countryman are expected to be the same the current-generation BMW X1.
Previously spied Countryman prototype
In Australia the X1 is available with a 1.5-litre turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine producing 100kW of power and 230Nm of torque, and a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine producing 150kW and 300Nm.
In other markets there is a mild-hybrid petrol, two turbo-diesel, and two plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrains. There’s even an all-electric variant in the form of the iX1.
It’s unclear what powertrains the next-generation Mini Countryman will receive at this stage, but Mini is getting ready to move away from internal-combustion engines entirely.
The last new Mini model with an internal-combustion engine will be released in 2025, and Mini says 50 per cent of its sales will be all-electric by 2027. Come 2030, every single Mini will be electric.
Based on previous updates from Mini, its next-generation model lineup will include the following cars:
- The classic 3-Door Hatch, available with petrol and electric power. It’s expected to be smaller than the current car.
- The Aceman electric SUV to slot between the 3-Door Hatch and Countryman.
- The Countryman SUV, grown up to take on the Audi Q3 and Mercedes-Benz GLA with petrol and electric power.
- Another premium compact car in an as-yet unrevealed segment, potentially based on the Vision Urbanaut concept.
- A new Convertible, due in 2025.
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