MINI Countryman
The MINI Countryman heralds a new chapter in the evolution of the MINI. The Countryman is more than four metres long with four doors, four seats, or five and a four wheel drive option called “ALL4†to extend the MINI driving excitement off road.
This four door MINI comes standard with two single seats at the rear adjustable individually for length, and is available at no extra cost with a three-seat rear bench. Luggage capacity may be increased in several steps from 350 all the way to 1,170 litres, as is available with a choice of two petrol engines and one diesel engine, ranging in output from 82kW to 135 kW.
The Cooper S and Cooper D are both available with the optional MINI ALL4 all-wheel drive. The suspension on all models comes as standard with DSC Dynamic Stability Control, but also by six airbags, three-point inertia-reel seat belts on all seats and a Tyre Defect Indicator.
Instead of a conventional centre console between the seats, the four seat Countryman offers an innovative rail system, enabling the driver and passengers to keep their personal belongings and loose items exactly where they need them at any point in time. At the same time it forms a visual and functional connection between the front and rear seats.
Despite the height and its ground clearance, the proportions characteristic of classic Minis’ are still retained in full, such as short overhangs front and rear offering maximum space on a minimum footprint.
The rear air dam on the Cooper S model comes as a diffuser guiding the flow of air beneath the rear end of the car to optimise the aerodynamic qualities of this special model. The most powerful model in the range also stands out through its special roof spoiler, a twin-chamber exhaust system, as well as striking openings in the rear wheel arches. .
Among other highlights, the range of options includes high-end audio and navigation systems as well as mobile telephone interfaces including the option to integrate an Apple iPhone and extra Smartphones.
Adaptive Headlights are available in conjunction with the optional xenon headlight units, adjusting the beam angle to the course of the road ahead as a function of the steering position. Need the wind in your hair? – Why not an extra-large Panorama roof? You can also option a heated windscreen, a tow bar (tradies take note), sports suspension lowering the entire car by 10 millimetres, as well as the full range of John Cooper Works Performance Components.
The new MINI Countryman takes an entirely new approach by combining the classic features of the brand with all the qualities of a modern Sports Activity Vehicle. And at the same time it brings together that unique agility so typical of MINI with enhanced motoring comfort to provide a truly unique driving experience.
Audi A1
Just when you thought Audi had slowed down its model rollout – think again. The smallest Audi has now landed in Australia. The compact A1 condenses the current virtues of the four-ring brand – trendy design, German quality and groundbreaking efficiency.
As the newcomer in the segment, Audi hopes that the A1 will appeal to a modern customer group – urban, lifestyle-oriented, and seeking a premium driving experience – albeit at a premium price, especially if you want to add all the bells and whistles.
Being an Audi, the A1 offers a raft of active safety technology as standard. Six airbags protect occupants, while ESP with electronic cross-axle differential lock is also standard across the range.
The interior of the A1 is spacious, bright and airy. The instrument panel resembles an airplane wing; its four round air-vents are reminiscent of jet engines. The clean, clear control layout is classic Audi as is the high level of fit and finish. The attention lavished on numerous details underscores the premium character of the A1.
Audi also offers a media style package focused on infotainment and interior design. Whether coloured air vents, LED interior lights or seat covers in expressive colours – customisation is the key. There are even a variety of paint finishes from which to choose for the roof arch. Customers can also order many features after the initial sale to follow a trend or a personal style.
The available infotainment and multimedia systems includes the top of the line MMI navigation plus. It borrows from the system used in Audi’s new A8 flagship, including the monitor that folds out from the instrument panel and the control unit. The 465 watt Bose surround sound system is just one example of the high-end options available.
Armed with a 1.4 litre TFSI petrol engine – it sips a reported 5.3 litres per 100km on a combined cycle. This engine embodies Audi’s downsizing principle: substituting turbocharging for engine displacement and utilising direct fuel injection. This 90 kW TFSI engine combines strong performance with excellent efficiency.
In mid-2011 the 66 kW 1.6 TDI will join the A1 range. Paired with 5-speed manual transmission, it emits just 99 grams of CO2 per kilometre (European figures). A start-stop system and a recuperation system, which recovers energy during braking, is standard on the manual transmission-equipped 1.6 TDI 66kW and helps to ensure levels of fuel efficiency that will make the A1 a class leader in diesel as well.
The A1 offers customisation not before seen with an Audi, and at a starting price of under $30K places the brand in easier reach to many more of us.
Andrew Koch
