MINI has revealed 2017 model year updates for its entire range, following in the footsteps of parent company BMW. These include a pair of entry-level models for the new Countryman crossover, along with a number of equipment revisions.

The One and One D Countryman both utilise a 1.5 litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine in petrol and diesel forms respectively, with the former producing 102 hp and 180 Nm of torque. Don’t be too surprised when you find out that it takes 11.8 seconds for it to get from 0-100 km/h with a six-speed manual gearbox, or a yawning 12.8 seconds with the optional six-speed auto.


With 116 hp and 270 Nm on tap, the One D is quite a bit quicker, completing the same sprint in 10.9 seconds before maxing out a whole 10 km/h faster at 190 km/h. Fuel consumption is rated at between 5.8 and 5.5 litres per 100 km for the One and between 4.3 and 4.1 litres per 100 km for the One D.

Aside from the new engines, the Countryman also receives wireless Apple CarPlay connectivity in conjunction with the Wired package (surely someone can see the irony in the naming), a feature that is also extended to the Clubman. Meanwhile, all models now get an instrument cluster that lights up white when the lights are on instead of orange.


The old fuel gauge that showed the remaining amount of fuel in bars is also no more, replaced by a new, more precise display. The head-up display has been revised too, with the individual height setting now stored in the car key’s personal profile, as are the mirror and seat positions.

In addition, the MINI Driving Modes – normal, Sport and Green – are no longer selected via a rotary ring around the gearlever; the operation is now performed through the right-most toggle switch under the climate controls. This takes the place of a button to turn the head-up display on or off, which is now controlled using a separate menu in the infotainment system.


Other changes include a new alertness assistant on the MINI 3 Door, 5 Door and Convertible, part of the MINI Visual Boost radio and navigation systems. Analysing the driving style and the distance covered, it will ask the driver to take a break if it senses the driver is losing concentration, via a graphic on the centre display and the suggestion “Tea Time.”

Lastly, the MINI Convertible receives the optional Always Open Package that throws in Comfort Access keyless entry, heated front seats, a wind deflector and an Always Open Timer – the latter records and display the time spent driving with the roof open.