A test mule of the 2017 MINI Countryman was recently caught on camera in France. Expected to make its debut at the 2016 Paris Motor Show, the car will is likely to go on sale by year end or early-2017. In spite of the heavy camouflage, the detailed images of the car show some considerable cosmetic updates made to its exterior profile, while the cabin was kept well-hidden to comment on any changes whatsoever.
In terms of looks, the new MINI Countryman looks mostly identical to the outgoing model but with the exception of some minor exterior details. For instance, the headlamps now look a bit small and have been updated on the design front as well. While the front grille retains its trapezoidal shape, it now comes in a new honeycomb pattern that also reflects in the new small air dam. The fog lamps have also been changed and are now placed a bit inwards with large air intake on each ends, which hints on an updated front bumper as well.
2017 MINI Countryman Updated Front Profile
While the side profile of the car is not extensively visible, we hardly believe it will come with any considerable changes apart from new alloy wheels and possibly some updated design creases. In fact the ORVMs and the under body plastic cladding have been carried forward from the current model. Now the new images do not show the rear profile of the car but you can expect to see changes that are in line with the front end of the car like - revised tail lamps and a new bumper design as well.
2017 MINI Countryman Cabin
The interiors on the other hand, as we mentioned earlier was kept completely hidden and the only part that is visible in these images is the steering wheel. Although the cabin is expected to see some considerable changes as well like an updated dashboard, new upholstery and seat covers, along with some new features as well.
Under the hood we do not expect to see any changes as the car will continue to receive its power from MINI's TwinPower Turbo three-cylinder petrol and four-cylinder diesel engines. Same goes for the transmission options, which will be a 6-speed manual or an 8-speed Steptronic. The Countryman will eventually come to India as well, considering it is one of the most successful MINI cars in the country. Although, the India-spec version will only get the autobox like the current models.
Image Source: Auto Plus Reporter
